Brand new corrections nurse!

[cchezem15]

Hello everyone -

I just took my first job today as a corrections nurse at a county jail. All I need to do now is a drug test & physical agility test and I am set! I have read a lot on here how people advise not to do this as your first job, but as a LVN my options are kind of limited. I feel that my assessment skills are very good (my nursing professor told me in school that I had above average skills) and I am very quick on my feet.

What I would like to know is - what tips would you give me starting out? I have read quite a few posts on here and have learned a little information from it. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[KimberlyRN89, BSN, RN]

Hi there! The city jail was my first LPN job too. I've been there almost two months. It's pretty cool so far. At my facility we are mainly responsible for the med pass (there are 3 of them at 9am, 3pm, and 9pm), taking vital signs,doing intake screenings, planting & reading PPD's, and responding to emergencies PRN. The RN on duty is the charge nurse & they deal with the assessments, handling sick calls, assisting the Dr/PA with clinic, handling the diabetic's insulin, detox vitals & responding to emergencies. Anyways, I've learned that it's important to know when an inmate is seriously ill, or just seeking some attention lol. Alot of them will say something is bothering them just so they can come over & talk to you. Also, document everything you do! Many of them are super manipulative & will make up lies for attention! For example: "That nurse didn't give me my medicine".

Stay organized, don't get overwhelmed & if you need help don't be afraid to ask :)

[iwillbanurse08]

I am also starting a correctional position as well. My start date is the end of sept. We can keep eath other posted on the progress. I am a little nervous and excited at the same time. I wish you the best of luck on your new journey.