Will I be a solid candidate for corrections Nursing?

[newguy1]

I'm double majoring, corections & LPN.(I may continue with RN later) I was a substance abuse therapist for eight years. I have experience working with offenders. Q. Will I be able to work in a correction's setting with an LPN and will I be easily employed w/a corrections degree, LPN and a strong background treating those with addctions?

Ty

[suzannefisher]

In the Texas Prison System, they do hire LPN/LVN nurses, more so than RNs. Good Luck!

[newguy1]

Ty,

[mtsteelhorse]

You sound ideal to me. What a great background and combination of skills to offer. I think you'll do well and enjoy it. Good luck!

[newguy1]

Ty for the reply

[Emmyzsis]

Having worked through a contract company in correctional health as well as through a local health department staffing contract, the use of LPNs varies with several variables being considered. The smaller the facility, the fewer LPNs. Currently, I work in a very large regional jail system that encompasses 3 facilities, the largest housing approximately 2000 inmates. Your background will certainly prove to be a valuable asset in the correctional environment. In my experience, LPNs are primarily used in med passes and assisting the RNs. I've worked with several new grads in corrections that often burn out or find that they have great difficulty trying to find public jobs later. Correctional care is so different than public care. The more experience one brings with them, the more successful they will be. We are extremely hesitant to hire new grads for permanant full time positions. One needs to be very good at making rapid, solid decisions. A naive nurse is a liability for themselves as well the staff. Inmates, though frequently very thankful for the care they receive, are extremely manipulative as a whole. There is also a much greater population of people with serious, untreated, out-of-control mental health cases in addition to the addiction syndromes. In searching for a corrections position, be very proactive in the type of responsibilities you want. While having the counseling background may give you an edge in the hiring process, it may not have anything to do with the job. Passing meds all day, every day, can become mundane....and limiting in your career path. Hope this rather lengthy response is helpful. Good luck!