[fizz2Nurse]

Originally Posted by nursecratchett

Ive been in corrections for a while and am having my first real probrem. I had an abusive husband of 5 yrs. break my arm last November. It was a serious break that required 2 surgeries b/c my humerus and elbow were shattered. I got rid of him!!
I thought I was ok until I went back to work. Most of the inmates were wondering where I was and cared about me, but the 1% that are jerks are really getting to me. Their horrible comments seem to stay in my head and I know its b/c of what happened- I dont want to lose my job and sincerely love working in corrections-- any thoughts? I have always had a professional and tough nature- they never used to get to me. Now Im not doing so well- I would love to hear some thoughts on this!
Thanks!

Sounds like the IM's know too much personal. But beyond that remember that the ones that are jerks about it are just pros at being....jerks!

They're there because they are manipulators that enjoy other people's misery. The real good thing to do is alwyas show them a strong side and be sarcastic, usually that tends to make them back off.

When I've been in that situation and one is giving a hard time - they find out who is in control at med pass: either I make them unsure at med pass - "remember buddy - I handle your meds" or I'm very sarcastic and make them toe the line. At least where I worked the rule was they must present their ID card. If they gave me flak, it was back of the line and stop the line until they complied. If it didn't make them better, it shut them up.


I'm not saying it's easy for you, but for yourself you might need to cultivate your "jerk factor".

I hope you find what works for you well.

[nursecratchett]

Fizz-

Thanks for your reply. I didnt want the "real" story to get passed around b/c I knew the flack I would get- but the other shift just couldnt keep it quiet!! Girls will be girls..!! I am usually so tough but it seems like I cant handle the abusive remarks right now. They seem to keep going in my head even after I leave work, so of course I dread going back. I was never like that before. Thanks for your input!!

[Steristripqueen]

Hi Barbara and welcome to the strange world of corrections! I have been in it for 17 yrs now. 3 words that to this day have helped me....be fair, firm and most important..consistant! The i/m's will watch you like a hawk. Also not sure if this book is still in publication/available but the title is The Games Inmates Play. Everything in this book an i/m did/tried to do to me.

And Joe I was SOOOO looking forward to that Wal Mart job but now my hopes are shattered Joan

[VegRN]

Originally Posted by Steristripqueen

Hi Barbara and welcome to the strange world of corrections! I have been in it for 17 yrs now. 3 words that to this day have helped me....be fair, firm and most important..consistant! The i/m's will watch you like a hawk. Also not sure if this book is still in publication/available but the title is The Games Inmates Play. Everything in this book an i/m did/tried to do to me.

And Joe I was SOOOO looking forward to that Wal Mart job but now my hopes are shattered Joan

Oh yeah, "Games Criminals play", that book is the best!