I'm an LPN, I have 3 years of experience in a hospital working ortho and med/surg. I recently was offered a job as LPN 4p-12a at our county jail. It houses 800 inmates both male and female. I start next month!
I'm trying to get as much information as I can! I'm extremely nervous but excited to start something new.
Does anyone have an tips or advice? My biggest fear is being maniuplated by an inmate due to no experience in this field..and the fact that I'm young (23) Also, I'm a very friendly person..I've taken care of patients who've done horrible things, I have no problem being nice to them...but in a jail..I'm sure its different.
You will have inmates attempt to manipulate you and they excel at reading people. Just keep those boundaries up, never discuss anything personal. Just be professional and courteous; I am far from young and never arrested gaining sobriety as a young waitress, I had a quite rough youth so I can read a lot of my patients quite well (I work in prison now but spent a few years at county jail.) Do not forget that the most polite patient may be charged with rape. Be cautious with guys who appear to be chatting you up as they may be fishing for information. Never disclose where you live and if I were still young and pretty I'd buy a ring to wear on your wedding ring finger, the guys will notice that you are single. Never do a favor for anyone, don't call your patients by 1st name, keep the deputy nearby and let the officer know if anything inappropriate is said; don't let it slide. Minimize hair/make-up etc...I had pretty, young co-workers and the guys never took their eyes off them. Keep up situational awareness never turning your back to an inmate.
K9lover, ASN, RN
507 Posts
You will have inmates attempt to manipulate you and they excel at reading people. Just keep those boundaries up, never discuss anything personal. Just be professional and courteous; I am far from young and never arrested gaining sobriety as a young waitress, I had a quite rough youth so I can read a lot of my patients quite well (I work in prison now but spent a few years at county jail.) Do not forget that the most polite patient may be charged with rape. Be cautious with guys who appear to be chatting you up as they may be fishing for information. Never disclose where you live and if I were still young and pretty I'd buy a ring to wear on your wedding ring finger, the guys will notice that you are single. Never do a favor for anyone, don't call your patients by 1st name, keep the deputy nearby and let the officer know if anything inappropriate is said; don't let it slide. Minimize hair/make-up etc...I had pretty, young co-workers and the guys never took their eyes off them. Keep up situational awareness never turning your back to an inmate.