Correctional Facility Nurse Job Description [Updated for 2025]

correctional facility nurse job description

In an era of increased focus on safety and rehabilitation, the role of correctional facility nurses has never been more crucial.

The needs within correctional facilities continue to evolve, and with each development, the demand for skilled professionals who can provide quality healthcare, address emergencies, and advocate for prisoner’s rights grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a correctional facility nurse?

Whether you are:

  • A job seeker trying to comprehend the intricacies of this role,
  • A hiring manager mapping out the ideal candidate,
  • Or merely curious about the everyday operations of correctional nursing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a tailor-made correctional facility nurse job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Correctional Facility Nurse Duties and Responsibilities

Correctional Facility Nurses provide medical care to inmates within the confines of a prison or jail.

They are tasked with a wide range of duties, including the management of patient care, emergency response, and adherence to legal regulations within the correctional facility.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

  • Conduct initial health screenings and assessments of new inmates
  • Administer medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians
  • Provide emergency medical care and first aid when necessary
  • Maintain accurate, detailed reports and records of patients’ health and treatment plans
  • Collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals to plan, manage, and assess patient treatments
  • Provide health education to inmates on various topics, such as disease management, hygiene, and nutrition
  • Follow established nursing standards and protocols for treatment and care
  • Adhere to legal regulations and guidelines pertaining to the healthcare of incarcerated individuals
  • Order, interpret, and evaluate diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient’s condition
  • Monitor all aspects of patient care, including diet and physical activity
  • Direct and supervise less experienced nursing staff

 

Correctional Facility Nurse Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and experienced Correctional Facility Nurse to provide professional nursing care within our correctional facility.

The ideal candidate will have experience in patient assessment, medication administration, chronic and acute illness management, and emergency medical care.

The role of the Correctional Facility Nurse is to ensure the health and wellbeing of inmates in a correctional setting.

This role will require strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with individuals from various backgrounds and circumstances.

 

Responsibilities

  • Provide direct patient care and perform physical examinations
  • Administer medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians
  • Manage chronic and acute illnesses and injuries
  • Document and report inmates’ health status and care
  • Respond to medical emergencies within the facility
  • Coordinate with medical staff to ensure appropriate healthcare services are provided
  • Educate inmates on health, nutrition, and preventative care
  • Adhere to all facility rules, regulations, and procedures
  • Participate in continuous learning and training opportunities

 

Qualifications

  • Current and valid nursing license in the state of employment
  • Minimum of 2 years nursing experience, preferably in a correctional setting
  • Experience in emergency care, primary care, or public health
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with diverse populations
  • Knowledge of basic nursing principles, procedures, and ethics
  • Proficient in electronic medical records systems
  • BLS certification required
  • Ability to pass a background check and drug screening

 

Benefits

  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Continuing education credits
  • Life insurance
  • Employee assistance program

 

Additional Information

  • Job Title: Correctional Facility Nurse
  • Work Environment: Correctional facility with a potential for exposure to communicable diseases and potentially violent situations.
  • Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head Nurse or Health Services Administrator.
  • Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
  • Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
  • Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
  • Employment Type: Full-time
  • Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
  • Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Correctional Facility Nurse Do?

Correctional Facility Nurses, also known as prison nurses, work in jails, prisons, or other correctional institutions where they provide healthcare services to inmates.

Their responsibilities range from assessing the health conditions of inmates, administering medications, and providing wound care, to treating injuries and managing chronic diseases.

They work closely with other medical staff members, including doctors and specialists, to develop and implement healthcare plans for patients within the correctional facility.

As part of their duties, Correctional Facility Nurses may also conduct health education classes for inmates, advising them on maintaining good health, and teaching them about disease prevention and management.

They also respond to emergency medical situations within the facility and may coordinate the transfer of critically ill inmates to outside medical facilities.

The nurse plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall wellbeing of inmates, ensuring their health needs are met while they are in a correctional environment.

Furthermore, they are also responsible for maintaining medical records, documenting all treatments given, and updating inmate’s health status as needed.

In some cases, they may also provide mental health support and assist with managing behavioral issues, working in collaboration with psychologists or psychiatrists within the facility.

 

Correctional Facility Nurse Qualifications and Skills

Correctional Facility Nurses need a mix of medical expertise, interpersonal skills, and the ability to handle a unique work environment.

They should possess:

  • Registered Nursing (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) degree, along with a valid nursing license
  • Possessing a strong knowledge base in basic medical care, emergency response, and psychiatric nursing
  • Exhibiting excellent critical thinking skills to make quick and effective decisions in emergency situations
  • Strong communication skills to liaise effectively with inmates, correctional officers, and other healthcare professionals
  • Ability to handle stressful situations and work under pressure, maintaining professionalism and composure in challenging environments
  • Demonstrating strong ethical and moral judgment in the provision of healthcare to all inmates, regardless of their crimes
  • Being able to work in a team environment, often collaborating with security personnel and other healthcare providers
  • Experience in handling substance abuse cases, mental health disorders, and chronic disease management
  • Flexibility with working hours as shifts may include nights, weekends, and holidays

 

Correctional Facility Nurse Experience Requirements

Correctional Facility Nurses are required to have a degree in nursing and must be registered as a nurse in their respective state.

They usually gain practical experience during their time in nursing school, during which they are exposed to a variety of medical scenarios and patients.

Entry-level Correctional Facility Nurses may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities.

They are also expected to have knowledge of emergency care, substance abuse treatment, and psychiatric nursing.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of patient care, medical record maintenance, and administering medication.

They may also have experience dealing with the unique challenges that come with providing nursing care within a correctional facility.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience and be prepared to take on managerial roles within the medical team in a correctional facility.

They are often tasked with creating health care plans, coordinating with other health professionals, and mentoring junior nurses.

Additionally, due to the unique nature of the environment, all Correctional Facility Nurses are expected to have strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to handle stressful situations.

 

Correctional Facility Nurse Education and Training Requirements

Correctional Facility Nurses are required to have a degree from an accredited nursing program.

This can be a diploma from an approved nursing program, an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), or a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN).

To practice, all nurses must be licensed.

This involves passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become a registered nurse (RN).

Beyond the basic RN licensure, correctional facility nurses often need additional training and certifications to handle the unique situations they may encounter in a correctional setting.

This can include Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and Emergency Nursing Pediatric Course (ENPC) certifications.

Some correctional facilities may require experience in emergency or critical care nursing, psychiatric nursing, or public health.

Certification in correctional healthcare (CCHP-RN) offered by the National Commission on Correctional Health Care is not typically required but is highly preferred as it signifies that the nurse has demonstrated mastery in this specialized field.

Continuing education and training is crucial in this role due to the evolving nature of correctional healthcare and the unique challenges that arise within these environments.

 

Correctional Facility Nurse Salary Expectations

A Correctional Facility Nurse can expect an average salary of $73,340 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary based on factors such as years of experience in the field, qualifications, geographical location, and the specific requirements of the correctional facility.

 

Correctional Facility Nurse Job Description FAQs

What skills does a correctional facility nurse need?

Correctional facility nurses require a strong sense of empathy, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

They should possess excellent clinical skills, including knowledge of medication administration, wound care, and patient assessment.

Additionally, they need strong communication skills to effectively interact with inmates, correctional staff, and other healthcare professionals.

 

Do correctional facility nurses need a degree?

Yes, correctional facility nurses need at least an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

After obtaining a degree, they should pass the NCLEX-RN examination to become a Registered Nurse.

Some correctional facilities may also require additional experience or certifications in fields such as forensic nursing or correctional healthcare.

 

What should you look for in a correctional facility nurse resume?

A correctional facility nurse resume should display a strong background in nursing, including a valid RN license.

Look for experience in correctional facilities or other high-stress environments, such as emergency rooms or psychiatric units.

The resume should also highlight skills such as communication, empathy, and crisis intervention.

 

What qualities make a good correctional facility nurse?

A good correctional facility nurse is resilient and can adapt to a challenging and unpredictable environment.

They should respect the dignity and humanity of all individuals, regardless of their criminal history.

They must also be non-judgmental and culturally competent, with strong ethical standards.

A high level of mental and physical stamina can also be beneficial in this demanding setting.

 

Is it difficult to hire correctional facility nurses?

Hiring correctional facility nurses can be challenging due to the demanding nature of the environment and the need for specialized skills.

The stigma associated with working in a correctional facility can also make recruitment difficult.

However, offering competitive salaries, comprehensive training, and strong support systems can help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we have unveiled the true essence of being a correctional facility nurse.

And guess what?

It’s not just about administering medication.

It’s about delivering healthcare in a challenging environment, one patient at a time.

With our detailed correctional facility nurse job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on a rewarding career journey.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every patient interaction is a part of a bigger mission.

Let’s make a difference. Together.

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