katethegreat

There is a stigma. I've been told that I'm too nice to be a correctional nurse. Definitely follow snookgirls' advice. When interviewing you've got to play up your strengths.

I did not know correctional nursing was for me. There are days I still don't, but I will tell you what tell my family and friends. You are much safer in a prison than you are in a hospital. Here EVERYONE who works here is trained how to not only protect themselves and assist their co-workers. Everyone is trained to be safe, and you will be too. Here, you know what kind of people you're dealing with. If there is crime, which is a rarity in and of itself, it's usually not directed at staff. And in the event that you do feel threatened, your fellow staff will be there in two shakes. For the most part the inmates are very respectful as they know nurses are the gatekeepers to any healthcare they will get. Believe me, my family, fiance, friends, and random people I meet think I'm a little crazy. Maybe I am, but I like my job. Now here's the part you don't want to hear: I came straight to prison right out of nursing school. My fellow graduates are now lightyears beyond me as far as nursing skill go because they work in hospitals. You may not have this predicament having been an LPN before becoming an RN, but I do often feel that I am at a severe disadvantage. I haven't started an IV or put in a foley since nursing school. Most of what I see is jock itch, and I give a lot of insulin. There are FMC's (Federal Medical Centers) where you will get more experience than at a regular FCI or USP. I wish you the best of luck. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

I'm not at Butner, but I do work for a Federal prison. The job is good, the benefits are great, and the pay is usually better than local hospitals (depending on your experience and location). My mentor through the Bureau of Prisons is a nurse at Butner and she loves it. Good luck with your decision.

1. Require that they have their ID badge. Without it, How can you have two verifiable pieces of identification necessary to dispense meds? At our facility, if they do not have an ID badge, they must leave and report to the lieutenant's office. You have to be firm with the inmates and make them know that their behavior will not be tolerated. If they don't have ID kick them out. If they are lewd, write them up and kick them out. 2. We ONLY allow sick call on the 7am move. If they arrive later than that they are not seen. We usually get 10-20 people for sick call. I really hope your situation gets better. If you ever feel uncomfortable, can you request an officer?

Thanks Orca!

I will be starting a new job as a nurse in a federal correctional institution in December where I will have a two year contract. We've been thinking about expanding our family (not in the immediate future, but soon-ish), and I'm wondering if anyone has been pregnant while working corrections, or knows a nurse who has. Would it be safe? Worst case scenario, we wait until the contract is over to start trying. Any input is greatly appreciated. Thanks!