[ss07]

Is there anyone out there who can give me any wisdom or advice regarding being an new grad LVN (but no spring chicken) working at a prison? I'd be so glad to hear all comments and/or stories. Thanks folks!

[Sensoria17]

There was a small discussion about this on the LVN forum. I thought I wanted to work in corrections until I read this. I'm sure you'll find it if you do a search.

[ss07]

Originally Posted by susanphillips

I'm sure you're going to hear a lot of different stories. My sister is an RN and has been working within the California Department of Corrections for a few years now. She loves it. She's been working with a healthcare recruiting firm in San Clemente called Solvere. The recruiter's name is Christy Silverman. My sister raves about her.

Thanks for the info. Right now I'm waiting in California to get my nclex results (tons of fun). I'll look into it when I get my green light.

[marieLVN]

I have been an LVN for 2 years now and started working for CDC in Jan. 07. I really enjoy it, but did not expect to like it this much in the beginning. Like most people, the thought of prison nursing scared me. I work in a Level 1-4 prison , with most prisoners in my clinical/medical area being level 1 or 2, less dangerous types. This is something to consider when working in a prison. Yes I have heard some horror stories from my co-workers of other prisons, Inmates calling them every name in the book, throwing urine or feces at them, masturbating in front of them, deliberately jabbing one nurse with a used insulin needle, etc. I have never experienced anything this extreme, but I try to treat the Inmates with respect, only give them what they have coming to them, remain professional at all times, and most of them will treat you with the same respect. Sure they lose their tempers, but so do the medical staff at times. I work with a diverse array of people, the medical area is similar to a small clinic/hospital, and most times the work is less stressfull than hospital or snf environment. Good luck!

[ss07]

MarieLVN,

Thanks so much for your post. I feel encouraged. I took a field trip to the one I'm considering, and I really actually liked it. There was very little turnover. Everyone actually liked working there, and had for years. I interviewed the employees, sorta. All I know is that I was way more comfortable walking in there and around there than I thought I would be. So, when my papers telling me if I passed or not finally arrive, I think I'll give it a go.

[Lucid Vital Nurse]

Hi MarieLVN,

I'm Jules also an LVN. I am a Contract Nurse through the agency Solvere and I live in Palmdale. I work at California Correctional Institution in Tehachapi (Department of Corrections). I would suggest working for Solvere making $34/hour. I would not recommend going state because the pay is a lot lower as well as other issues. Solvere's number is 1.800.451.7811. Speak with Christy Silverman or Grace Boss. Good Luck. Sincerely, LVN Jules