New Grad In Corrrections? good/bad idea?

Mariposa88 · Dec 31, 2008

I think its possible, just might be extra hard for you.

JDCitizen · Jan 4, 2009

I don't know if it varies from state to state but here in GA it is pretty much rotten;

Corrections Health Care:

#1 You are working with convicts.

#2 There are large numbers that are really, really sick but you have to wade through the deception they or others throw up just to get to the truth if you ever can. Manipulation is the norm.

#3 There are a large number that don't even know how to speak English.

#4 Budget cuts: short staffing, etc (this also includes security staff)...

#5 Training short to almost nonexistence except what they can put on paper to make it look good.

#6 Management practices self preservation and by no means is of any real support.

In short you will probably be working with a medically needy population (psychologically as well as medically) with limited resources, limited support and limited backup. You will be just as locked in as the inmates you work with.

In a hospital environment you can build your skills, cross train, expand and build; Not much of that in correctional nursing.

:twocents:

nurseforlife · Jan 4, 2009

My advice is it doesn't hurt to do med surg or something for about a year. This will give you experience, and confidence. Then go into corrections. If you like it .... stick to it, and make it your specialty.

Good Luck

geode19947 · Jan 8, 2009

Go for it!!! I graduated in May 2008 and accepted a position in correctional nursing as an RN...I had NO previous nursing-hospital experience whatsoever other than what i learned in clinicals; and my position working with adolescents with mental health issues (which prepared me for the grown ups in prison with mental health issues). The community college i attended is well respected in that they give alot of hands-on clinical experience. In addition, I am curious by nature and asked lots of "stupid" questions while in the nursing program. That being said, I have to say that I LOVE correctional nursing!!! My supervisor did tell me that she was surprised that i lasted due to the fact that i had no previous experience. So i think it really depends on the person as to whether or not having no experience is a bad idea to begin in corrections. While experience goes a long way (and there were many days and still are days when i wish i had more experience), it is not entirely impossible. The key is to be CONFIDENT in yourself, don't be afraid to admit you don't know something, ask for help, never stop learning about assessments-skills-disease-pathophysiology-etc., and enjoy it! I have learned a lot at the prison where i work and find it to be the best decision i've made!!! Go for it!! Good luck to you