Nurse Practitioner

Position Overview

The Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) is responsible for providing comprehensive healthcare services to inmate/resident populations within a correctional healthcare environment. This role includes assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients; executing physician orders; prescribing medications within the scope of licensure; and coordinating patient care plans. The ARNP collaborates with physicians, nursing staff, facility personnel, and outside healthcare providers to ensure the delivery of quality medical care while maintaining compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, policies, and accreditation standards. The position requires sound clinical judgment, strong communication skills, and the ability to respond effectively in high-stress and emergency situations.

Job Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive nursing care, including executing physician orders, administering medications, performing examinations, and delivering treatments and procedures.
• Order, interpret, and evaluate diagnostic tests to assess patient conditions and healthcare needs.
• Record physical findings, develop patient care plans, and collaborate with physicians and healthcare professionals regarding treatment and prognosis.
• Recommend medications and treatment plans within the scope of licensure and certification.
• Monitor inpatient hospitalizations and coordinate timely releases when appropriate.
• Maintain cleanliness and proper functioning of medical equipment and work areas.
• Assist in monitoring the delivery of required healthcare services and contractual obligations.
• Maintain professional working relationships with facility staff, healthcare personnel, contract providers, and outside agencies.
• Utilize established policies, procedures, and independent clinical judgment in performing assigned duties.
• Evaluate healthcare services regularly to prevent duplication or inappropriate utilization of services.
• Maintain confidentiality and security of all medical records and ensure documentation accuracy and completeness.
• Monitor patients with serious or potentially catastrophic illnesses and ensure appropriate intervention and treatment.
• Recommend methods to improve operational efficiency and cost effectiveness of healthcare services.
• Audit pharmacy usage for compliance with formulary requirements and applicable pharmacy laws.
• Observe, document, and report inmate/resident behavior as appropriate.
• Provide health counseling and education to individuals and groups.
• Interpret and apply medical, legal, and regulatory documents, policies, and procedures.
• Assist with legal matters related to healthcare services, including reviewing records and participating in hearings when required.
• Communicate effectively with administration, staff, patients, visitors, and the public in a professional and respectful manner.
• Attend staff meetings and participate in multidisciplinary committees focused on healthcare quality improvement.
• Support accreditation processes and compliance with applicable healthcare standards and regulations.
• Prepare safety and incident reports and respond appropriately to emergencies and unusual incidents.
• Perform emergency response and rescue functions, including administering basic emergency medical care.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships while managing difficult or stressful interactions.
• Take appropriate action to prevent or de-escalate disruptive situations.
• Accurately document all patient care activities and medical services provided.
• Analyze information, establish facts, and draw valid clinical conclusions.
• Remain alert and respond calmly and efficiently during emergencies and high-stress situations.

Job Requirements

• Possess a current Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP) license and/or certification in the state of employment.
• Maintain training and clinical competency in family practice.
• Demonstrate knowledge of nursing principles, patient assessment, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment planning.
• Maintain compliance with all applicable healthcare laws, regulations, policies, and standards.
• Demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
• Ability to work effectively in a correctional healthcare environment.
• Ability to respond appropriately in emergency and high-stress situations.
• Ability to interpret medical, legal, and technical documents and procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse populations.
• Possess basic mathematical and analytical skills necessary for healthcare calculations and reporting.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

Education

• Graduate of an accredited college or university nursing program with an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner degree.

Work Experience

• Minimum of one year of professional nursing experience required.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k)

Additional Job Details (Commute, Attendance, etc.)

• Position may require working rotating shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Work may be performed in secure and confined correctional facility environments.
• Exposure to challenging interpersonal situations and high-stress environments may occur regularly.
• Must be able to respond to emergencies and maintain situational awareness at all times.