Registered Nurse

Luna County Detention Center Medical Department NurseUnder the direction of the Health Services Administrator (HSA), and Nurse Practitioner (NP) this role supports the daily operations of the Luna County Detention Center Medical Department. This position provides a wide range of nursing services to inmates including assessing, nursing diagnosis, planning, implementing, and evaluating the medical condition of inmate patients. Registered Nurses provide information to other health care team members and contribute to the maintenance or restoration of health status. Along with all other correctional institution employees, the incumbent is also charged with responsibility of maintaining the security of the institution. The ideal candidate will have the skills to deal with individuals at all levels, including detainees, officers, and other Detention Center employees.The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.Assesses and identifies health problems of new inmates and initiates medical records and special needs POR's.Responds to day to day medical issues and/or emergencies with patientsAdministers prescribed treatments and medications as needed/medically requiredPrepares medical equipment, records, and rooms for examinations of patients, assisting the provider if necessaryPractices sound pharmacology practices in preparation, maintenance, administration, and documentation of prescribed drugs and/or IV delivered therapiesMaintains IVs for IV therapies, as neededMeets regularly with the HSA to review medical services administered to patients. May serve as Charge Nurse or Acting Supervisor in the absence if the HSA, and would be responsible for delegation of assignments among staff.Is aware of emergency procedures in the event of emergency or crisis situations and the appropriate plan of action governed by triage and written guidelinesCapable of giving CPR instructions and able to take charge in a CPR emergency. If trained and able, would also be responsible for using AED equipmentMust demonstrate ability to appropriately and safely use standard medical equipment including, but not limited to: AED, EKG, blood pressure device, oxygen, sterilization, Glucometer, Doppler, and Pulse OximeterUses logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problemsDelegates tasks appropriately to lower level licensure employeesEducates patients with regard to diet, hygiene, and methods of prevention of chronic medical diseasesMinimum Qualifications:Degree or diploma from a professional nursing program approved by the legally designated state accrediting agent at the time the program was completed by the applicantCurrent and unrestricted license as Registered Nurse, must maintain licenseMust be a Licensed Registered Nurse and maintain certification through Continuing Education Credits. Must provide a copy of current nursing licenseMust have a valid driver's licenseMust be able to pass a criminal background investigation and a pre-employment drug screenExperience in correctional healthcare preferred, but not requiredCompetencies:Clear and effective verbal and written communication with all coworkers, supervisors, jail administration, and patientsExcellent verbal and written comprehensionExcellent deductive reasoning and problem-solving abilitiesExcellent organizational skillsAbility to use a computer and use/learn a variety of software, including site-specific computer programsMust demonstrate ability to appropriately and safely use standard medical equipmentAbility to respect the dignity and confidentiality of inmatesEmployment Requirements:Must maintain all certifications, educational requirements, licensing, etc. for this positionMust have current CPR/BLS certificationMust have current TB test (taken within one year)Must adhere to all facility policies and procedures as well as the policies and procedures listed in the Employee HandbookWilling to assist coworkers in the job duties and work overtime if required; may act as a resource to other coworkersMaintains confidentiality, dignity, and security of health records and protected health information in compliance with HIPAA requirementsSecurity Requirements: Must undergo security training and orientation on facility safety policies and proceduresPhysical/Mental Requirements: This position routinely requires (but is not limited to) the following:Ability to both remain stationary and move/traverse throughout the facility, including up and down flights of stairsAbility to position oneself in different spacesAbility to convey and discern information in a conversation, frequently communicate with patients; must be able to exchange accurate information.Ability to identify and detect objects and assess situations from a variety of distancesAbility to stay calm in stressful and demanding situationsFrequently transports objects up to 50 poundsWork Environment: Work is performed inside a correctional facility. Employees are exposed to some level of risk and/or harm by inmates, including exposure to blood borne pathogens. Employee is expected to work in accordance with all security rules and regulations to minimize the risk of danger and/or harm to themselves or other employees.Employee must comply with all current and future State, Federal, and Local laws and regulations, court orders, Administrative Directives and standards and policies, including those of professional organizations such as ACA, NCCHC, etc.