Licensed Practical Nurse

Licensed Practical Nurse

The Pennington County Sheriff's Office is currently seeking a Licensed Practical Nurse to join our Medical Team. This is a unique opportunity to serve a diverse population of inmates and detainees in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. If you're looking for clinic-style work with the autonomy to apply a broad range of nursing skills—without the burden of overnight shifts—this position may be a great fit for you.

Our LPNs experience variety in their day-to-day responsibilities and are empowered to make meaningful decisions in a setting that values independence and professional growth.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including Health, Dental, Vision, and participation in the South Dakota Retirement System.

As a part of a larger medical team, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) evaluates inmates/clients/detainees and provides comprehensive medical care, while observing and maintaining the requirements of security within the Pennington County Jail, Care Campus and Western South Dakota Juvenile Services Center. Medical team members provide inmate services in an orderly, respectful and disciplined manner, consistent with the professionalism expected of all Sheriff's Office employees.

Essential Functions:

• Assess and identify health problems of new inmates/clients/detainees, initiate medical record and document according to facility specifications.
• Assess and record vital signs, to include temperature, blood pressure, respirations, pulse rate, oxygen saturation and body weight.
• Assist the provider with clinics.
• Administer prescribed treatment and medication to inmates/clients/detainees at any PCSO facility as needed and medically required, within licensing authorization, and document according to facility specifications.
• Recognize the signs and symptoms of a potentially emergent situation.
• Utilize knowledge to assist with emergencies.
• Provide sound pharmacology dispensing practice, including drug action, side effects and proper dosage.
• Prepare equipment and assist the physician and/or physician assistant during examination and treatment.
• Educate inmates/clients/detainees concerning diet, hygiene and methods of prevention of disease.
• Provide medical update to incoming medical staff prior to shift change.
• Maintain accountability and properly dispose of all sharps.
• Wear the designated uniform to signify status as a health care provider.
• Participate in staff meetings and in-service trainings and maintain LPN license and CPR certification as required.
• Maintain patient privacy and confidentiality of medical records.
• Perform related duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Maintain compliance with all county policies and procedures.

Education and/or Experience Required:

• High School or GED required, Associate's degree preferred.
• Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with completion of specialized training in the field of work, in addition to basic skills typically associated with a high school education.
• Current South Dakota Licensed Practical Nurse Certification or ability to readily obtain a South Dakota state certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid South Dakota Driver's License within 90 days of moving to South Dakota.

Working Environment:

• Work is typically performed in an office, stock room, jail, correctional facility or juvenile center.
• This position is exposed to contagious or infectious disease and irritating chemicals.
• Work requires the use of protective devices, such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc.
• This position includes close contact with inmates/clients/detainees.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and quantitative productivity standards.
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state and local standards.
• Must be able to move up to 20 pounds unassisted, and move 40 pounds with assistance.
• Must be able to talk, listen and speak clearly on telephone and in person.
• Ability to push/pull a medication cart for up to four hours per shift. When fully loaded, the medication cart weights approximately 200 pounds.
• Ability to sit, stand, stoop, bend, crouch and lift light objects.
• Must be able to enter data and operate a phone.