Corrections NPs?

linearthinker, DNP, RN · Feb 12, 2011

My friend did as a new grad. She said it was very good learning environment b/c, and she did not mean this disrespectfully, no one cared what she did. She gave the very best care she could and was indifferent to their status as prisoners. However, she had no one breathing down her neck or telling her what to do, or telling her later she should have done xyz. She was on her own (there was a MD on staff in name only that she could call if she had to, but he didn't really want to deal with her or the prisoners/patients). She treated their chronic, and often serious conditions to the best of her ability, and by trial and error. She also made mad bank. 10 years later, she is making less money by 1/3 in a private practice.

I would never willingly walk through the doors of a prison, lol. It sounds like a good gig for the right person.

Trauma Columnist · Feb 12, 2011

I receive stuff in the mail all the time from Wexford Health Care which operates the two prisons within commuting distance to me.

Have thought about it.

max66 · Feb 12, 2011

Thanks for the responses. Seems like it might be an opportunity to learn alot- although maybe quite challenging!

KansasNurseD · Feb 12, 2011

I work as an RN in corrections and am hoping to work in corrections next year when I've completed my MSN. There are a lot of great learning opportunities there, the pay is spectacular, and you get paid state holidays. I know of both FNPs and ACNPs that work corrections. The biggest complaint I've heard, is that if you want to order something that isn't formulary it has to be approved by the state which is a lengthy process, and frustrating if it is something your patient needs.

middleageNP · Feb 13, 2011

Is it easy getting a job at corrections as a new grad NP?

zenman · Feb 13, 2011

I'm currently doing locums in a detention center and they searched for 6 months before I signed on. I'm actually liking it except for the "ancient" formulary. I can order a 4 day supply of a non-formulary med and fill out a short form so it's not a big hassle. So far everything's been approved, mostly Geodon.

The inmates are glad for any help and the security is great. No nut is ever going to burst into your workplace blazing away! The only part I really don't like is being behind bars, the place is your typical cinderblock and metal decor, and I could on most days see more inmates but they can't be mixed up. I typically move around to several different locations to see more people. If females are in the medical clinic seeing the FNP, I have to wait till they are gone before bringing in guys. Inmates from different pods can't be mixed together and sometimes depending on officer staffing you might have to wait for 2 of them to escort a really bad dude.

Of course they all want Wellbutrin!!

mtsteelhorse · Feb 13, 2011

I am a RN working in detention. I work with a NP that oversees two detention facilities. She loves it except for the staff management portion, LOL! I think a new grad would do fine. The primary thing I would advise is reading and learning about the incarcerated setting. I by no means intend to profile inmates but it is imperative one learn about inmate games, manipulation and criminal thinking. Many nurses have crossed that line in corrections. If you're savvy and do some prep reading...there's a book entitle Games inmates play...or something like that. It will prepare you mentally for the environment. While not all inmates fall into this category it is certainly a factor in treating this population. I work on my own in our jail with an NP to write orders. It's interesting, frustrating and rewarding...like any nursing job! Good luck!

max66 · Feb 13, 2011

Thanks for all the info.

Zenman, I assume you are male- do u do any women health stuff or is that reserved for female providers?

I don't know if its "easy" getting a job as a corrections NP- but on my daily job board searches, corrections NPs seem to come up alot.

Seems like an interesting environment and may not be a match for all!

zenman · Feb 13, 2011

Yes, I am male. I 'm a PMHNP. The other PMHNP is a female and just mainly wanted to work with the females, although I see a few. We have a FNP and 2 physicians that take care of the medical problems.