Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Correctional Facility

Jackson County Florida•Marianna, FL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, performs specialized professional nursing work in the care and treatment of inmates at the County Correctional Facility. The position supports inmate well-being by reviewing health screening forms and conducting routine examinations, arranging medical treatment and special diets, assessing health during sick-call rounds, coordinating with medical professionals, maintaining medical records, overseeing medication and special-diet administration, and responding to medical emergencies. The employee administers the Facility health and hygiene plan and instructs Facility staff in relevant practices. The work involves the usual hazards of correctional facility management and medical work, including potential exposure to infectious diseases. The position reports to a Lieutenant and is considered essential during emergencies, natural disasters, local states of emergency, and Emergency Operations Center activations; attendance is required before, during, and after such events.

Requirements

High school graduate.
Licensed as a Practical Nurse by the State of Florida.
Certified in I.V. fluid therapy.
Certified by the American Red Cross in fluid IV therapy.
Possess a valid Florida driver's license prior to employment.
One to two years of experience as a Licensed Practical Nurse.
Knowledge of practical nursing techniques and routine patient care and treatment.
Knowledge of drugs and medications, including their uses and effects.
Knowledge of medical-waste disposal practices and procedures prescribed by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
Knowledge of sanitation, personal hygiene, and basic health and safety practices.
Knowledge of ethical guidelines applicable to the position under professional standards and federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations.
Knowledge of institutional care of prisoners and medical-record keeping practices and procedures.
Skill in preparing and administering medications.
Ability to observe patient conditions and accurately report conditions and changes.
Ability to remain calm and function efficiently in emergency and stressful situations.
Ability to develop, implement, and maintain health and hygiene programs in an institutional setting.
Ability to instruct Corrections personnel in routine medical and hygiene programs and procedures.
Ability to understand, interpret, and follow oral and written instructions; communicate effectively orally and in writing, including using medical terminology.
Ability to use tact, courtesy, and firmness in frequent contact with inmates, their families, attorneys, and others.
Ability to exercise discretion and confidentiality when handling inmates' medical records.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Ability to operate computers, copiers, facsimile machines, stethoscopes, syringes, sutures, bandages, sponge packs, resuscitators, and other listed equipment.
Ability to exert up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, up to 10 pounds frequently, and a negligible amount constantly to move objects; the role involves demands beyond sedentary work and typically requires significant walking or standing.
Ability to communicate by telephone and two-way radio and to talk and hear.

Responsibilities

Conduct daily rounds and briefly examine inmates to assess health status; refer inmates to the consulting physician when needed.
Review medical screening forms for newly booked prisoners and confer with physicians or other medical professionals to determine treatment, medication, or other care needs.
Schedule inmates' appointments with physicians and other medical personnel.
Examine prescription medications brought to the Facility by inmates and verify the substances and the inmates' need for them.
Prepare and maintain inmate medical files and records of treatments and health conditions; review and approve medical bills as appropriate; prepare paperwork for transfers to medical facilities.
Coordinate with Facility food services personnel to provide special foods or diets based on inmates' health needs.
Prepare medications and supervise Correctional Officers in their distribution; instruct Officers in medication administration; maintain an inventory of over-the-counter medications; pick up prescription medicines from the area pharmacy as needed.
Respond to after-hours medical emergencies by providing first aid and nursing care and contacting medical professionals when appropriate.
Administer the Facility's overall health care plan; instruct and advise Correctional Officers and other staff on policies, procedures, and standards; review the plan annually and update it as necessary.
Ensure medical waste is handled and disposed of in accordance with U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration rules and regulations.
Coordinate with Facility supervisors, medical professionals, inmates' legal counsel, and others about inmates' physical or mental health status.
Advise supervisory personnel when inmates need transfer to medical institutions and arrange transportation through the Emergency Medical Service Department as necessary.
Perform other related work as required.
Remain available to work on a 24-hour call-in basis and report before, during, and after designated emergency events.