[danibanani]

Hello everyone,

I've been lurking around this board for quite some time now. I am 18 weeks from graduating with my ADN and am very interested in correctional nursing.

I completed a preceptorship at a max-security prison in Ohio. I loved it. The staff were amazing and I was taught so much. I know this is what I want to do.

I have experience in from the university hospital in corrections; although it was an PCA (aide) position. I'd float there at least once a week. I come from a long generation of law enforcement-- however, that wasn't for me. My dad was the Chief of Police so I was taught at an early age how to carry myself around people I'd run into that my dad arrested.

After my preceptorship, the DON told me that I should come back and apply after graduation if I was interested. I followed up with a thank-you note. I've since wrote her a letter about pursuing my interest after graduation to keep me fresh in her mind.

I like med-surg/ICU/Peds-- but I feel corrections is the best fit for me. I am strong in my assessment abilities (for a student) and am highly interested in infectious diseases.

When is the best time to begin the application process? A month before graduation? I'd also like to work contingent on a med-surg floor so I won't lose my "clinical" skills (IV's, etc.).

Thanks for any insight you can give me.
Dani

[kmruddrn]

Donna,

I have worked as a Corrections Officer for 7 years a Sergeant for 4 a Lieutenant for 4 and a Captain for almost 5. I see no reason that you shouldn't do what you like. I have been in Corrections since 1991 in Kentucky then when to Virginia for the last 12 years. Please do what makes you happy. If Correction Nursing makes you happy go for it. Let me know what you deceided. You should do what makes you happy. I did and know I'm 15 years into it and can't wait to retire out of it Later. Go get'em guy or Girl!!!

[danibanani]

Thanks so much for your reply! I appreciate it. I'm going to telephone the DON tomorrow and ask about the application process and if I am required to take the civil service examination.

Dani