Correctional Facility Nurse

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BASIC DESCRIPTION

The nurse who works in a correctional facility provides health care for all inmates. This includes case management, responding to episodes of acute illness, emergency call management, psychiatric evaluations, and assessment of new inmates. The patients are those with health problems related to chronic illness, AIDS, substance abuse, renal failure/dialysis, respiratory diseases, and terminal cancer.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Registered nurse preparation is required. Positions are entry level, and orientation and assignment to a preceptor is required in most correctional facilities.

CORE COMPETENCIES/SKILLS NEEDED

The nurse who works in a correctional facility needs strong basic nursing skills, including:

■ The ability to function independently
■ The ability to respond to emergency situations
■ Knowledge of mental health issues
■ Health promotion and disease prevention skills
■ Strong assessment skills

RELATED WEB SITE AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATION

■ Official Home of Corrections (www.corrections.com )

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