sugarbear1971

Wow.... Some things never cease to amaze me... I was a CNA for 13+ years before I became a nurse and I have to say, even now, nothing, and I mean nothing is "beneath me". I have always told my aides that I will never ask them to do anything I wont do myself, and I stay true to that. Basic care is nursing 101, and shame on you for posting something in such bad taste. Wouldn't want you on my team for anything. Nor would I want you to care for me or my loved ones or friends. Unreal....

As a nurse with many years of hospital bedside experience, I moved into the world of Corrections Nursing. Best move I ever made. I got burned out with the politics and drama of hospital nursing. Never could quite feel like I was a nurse, more of a glorified pill pusher.. No time to actually spend with my patients and give good, quality care. However, having said that, you must understand that in a lot of facilities like mine (I work in a small county jail), the provider usually only comes in once a week for sick call. You MUST be on your A-game and if you have an RN on staff as well to do the assessments, I really think a good solid year at least of med -surg to nail down the basics is always a good idea. Have a thick skin, because things will be said and done to you that you can't be wishy washy about. Remember too that safety is of utmost importance. Inmates are incredibly manipulative and will do or say pretty much anything to get you to do things you really shouldn't. Take the lead from the CO's and learn the safety rules and guidelines. This will serve you well and keep you from unnecessary harm. Read up on substance abuse and mental illness, because a large part of corrections nursing have these elements. I wish you luck!