Jail Nurse RN/LPN

Project County of Burleigh•Bismarck, ND

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Jail Nurse provides nursing care to inmates at the Burleigh County Detention Center under the supervision of the Jail Nurse Supervisor. The role includes responsibility for complying with current and future state, federal, and local laws and regulations, as well as applicable agency and detention center policies and nursing standards. The nurse provides professional care using discretion and professional judgment, conducts health screenings and assessments, supports case management, and maintains accurate medical documentation. This is a full-time, non-exempt position with full benefits. The schedule rotates through days, evenings, and weekends; overnight shifts are not required. The position requires a criminal background check. Candidates selected to interview will complete a pre-interview phone screening. Applicants must already be authorized to work permanently in the United States; visa sponsorship is unavailable.

Requirements

Must be a U.S. citizen and at least 18 years old.
High school graduate or GED certified.
Graduation from an accredited school of nursing.
Current, unencumbered North Dakota RN or LPN license, or ability to obtain one within 60 days of hire.
Valid driver’s license.
Must already be authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis; visa sponsorship is not available.
Ability to respond to emergencies, use good judgment, work effectively with others, follow directions, and assume responsibility for professional growth and development.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing and meet special requirements.
Must complete a criminal background check.

Nice To Haves

Nursing experience in a correctional facility is preferred.

Responsibilities

Perform daily sick-call duties and medication passes.
Exercise discretion and caution when interacting safely with inmates.
Conduct health assessments, lab draws, and communicable-disease screenings.
Provide nursing services, treatments, and diagnostic and preventive procedures appropriate to inmate care and safety.
Interpret physicians’ orders and administer prescribed medication.
Apply surgical dressings and bandages, provide emergency first aid, and check and record vital signs.
Instruct inmates concerning discharge planning; observe signs and symptoms during sick call; and report reactions to treatments or medications and changes in inmates’ emotional or physical conditions.
Direct and guide patient teaching and activities consistent with the nurse’s education and demonstrated competencies, under the Jail Nurse Supervisor’s supervision.
Coordinate with medical providers to schedule outside medical appointments for inmates.
Assist with tracking equipment and supply needs.
Maintain accurate inmate medical records and pertinent data files, including information about inmates’ medical and psychological status.
Respond to facility emergencies involving injury or illness and perform CPR when needed.
Perform crisis intervention and suicide-prevention functions, recognize abnormal behavior, and take appropriate action.
Refer to or consult with other health providers in person and by telephone.
Notify the supervisor and complete written reports of medical or security incidents.
Serve as a mentor to nursing students.
Assess inmates for communicable diseases and use universal precautions due to daily exposure to airborne, blood, and body fluids.
Help inmates access needed social, medical, educational, psychological, and related services through integrated case management and documentation.
Assist with managing jail programs and inmate-care case management by assessing, developing, implementing, organizing, and reevaluating services.
Use effective communication and knowledge of referral systems; assist with maintaining pertinent data and documentation.
Analyze service quality on an ongoing basis to improve outcomes and make appropriate changes.
Maintain a positive and productive work atmosphere through professional communication with supervisors, officers, employees, inmates, and others who interact with the detention center.
Maintain the Sheriff’s Department code of ethics, detention center policies, and the North Dakota Century Code.
Perform other duties as required and assigned.