FL new grad interested in working for state prisons in FL, CA, AZ, NM

Published

Specializes in tele,med/surg.

Hello!!

I am curious about working for state prisons as a correctional nurse. I think my personality would be better fit for it, I wanted to know the applications process, how doesthe whole companies bidding and contracts thing work, skills, equipment, orientation etc.

Please tell me ALL you can! Especially the hiring process because Im confused...

Thanks! :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hi, I live in Phoenix, AZ. I am not very familiar with the state prisons but I have had a tour of the county jails. I turned down a job with them in April and now I regret it. The job posting just opened back up last week and closed on Monday so I reapplied. I believe new grads starting pay is a little over $26.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I am interested in working for Ca. Dept of Corrections. My background is mental health and I would like to try my hand in correctional mental health nursing.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in tele,med/surg.

How is AZ? Id love to move there, or NM. Did you just apply directly to the jail or through an agency?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

You apply directly through the county government website.

And I absolutely love AZ. The weather is beautiful and there's a lot to do.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in tele,med/surg.

Ive heard its gorgeous! Ill go ahead and apply...were you a new grad when you started?

Up Vote Up Vote ×

No, I'm not a new grad. I have two years experience in telemetry and Ortho/neuro/trauma. I applied to corrections because I want to use it as a stepping stone for a public health position. I'm also not a fan of bedside nursing so I'm looking for a change.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in corrections.

After 17 years in nursing, with 9 years of corrections, the best advice I can give you is to work at least 2 years of med/surg first. You'll need that experience to be able to handle everything. In corrections, you never know what's next. You could have 10 intakes, 5 sick calls and 8 history and physicals in an 8 hour shift. Or you can respond to an MI, stab wound, officer down and still have a 3 hour med pass. Critical thinking skills and darn good documentation will make or break you. I've seen too many new grads who get fired for inmate dealings over the years. If you're that confident that you can handle everything, than apply to a state or federal prison. But always remember to watch your back. You're there to do a job, not to get involved in their world. Good luck to you.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in oncology, med surg & corrections.

I'm currently a DON at a prison here in AZ- the state doesn't provide care to the inmates any longer. PM me if you want any information regarding working in one!!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in tele,med/surg.

I PM you with my gmail account, you never answered me :(

Up Vote Up Vote ×

did you get my email? I apologize!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in tele,med/surg.

Its OK, you do not have to yell your apology. Lol

I responded to your email but you haven't replied back.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment