PRN LPN

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Evaluate and provide comprehensive nursing care in a jail setting while observing and maintaining the requirements of security.  PRN (Pro Re Nata/As Needed) Nurses provide coverage for open shifts within the assigned facility or surrounding area for SHP.  PRN Nurses must pick up at least two shifts each month in order to remain Active PRN.  If a PRN Nurse is unable to pick up shifts he/she will be moved to an Inactive/Terminated status after 60 days.  

TYPICAL TASKS:

Carries out nursing care plans on inmates as prescribed or directed by MTA, Physician, and/or RN.

Performs clinical screenings, as necessary, on inmates and refers any medical problems to the MTA, RN, and/or Physician for his/her evaluation.

Screens patients at sick call. Treats inmates with problems within their professional capabilities; refers other medical problems to the appropriate MTA, RN, and/or Physician.

Assists the RN and/or Physician with sick call and minor surgical procedures.

Makes sure that physician's orders are implemented.  Uses problem oriented medical records system to chart using narrative format.

Documents all patient contacts.

Maintains confidentiality of medical records.

Records nurse's notes on all inmates. 

Evaluates symptoms, reactions, and progress of patients on a periodic basis; charts and reports problems to Medical Team Administrator as instructed.

Ensures that prescribed medications are administered.

Applies knowledge of drugs and therapeutics in dispensing medications in a jail setting.

Maintains security while dispensing medications and is continually cognizant of the potential hazard of drug hoarding and trafficking among inmates.   Maintains noninvolvement in security aspects of care.

Destroys and properly disposes of all needles/syringes.

Prepares regularly scheduled reports and special reports as necessary.

Participates in all continuing education offered by SHP.

Reviews updated resource manuals, asking questions when clarification required.

Fills in for colleagues when short staffed, as requested or able to do so.

Provides and is expected to wear a uniform to signify status as a health care provider.

Maintains cleanliness of work area.

Performs other duties and responsibilities as designated and/or assigned.

Appears in court if subpoenaed, etc.

RESPONSIBILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY:

Personal responsibility for ensuring completion of daily tasks as well as following up on pass down log and/or delegated items with accuracy

Ensures clarity of understanding by familiarizing self with policies, procedures, and asking questions when unclear. Adheres to all policies and procedures established by SHP. It is understood that such policies and procedures are updated/revised periodically and it is my responsibly that I am familiar with and working with the most current and up to date version

Competent in performance of patient medical services including, but not limited to:  Crisis Intervention, Medical Emergencies, Chronic Care, Physical Assessment, Medical Nursing Care, and Mental Health Nursing Care with or without direct, immediate supervision

Accountability for knowledge as to limits of personal ability and scope of practice; knowing and verifying understanding of receiving person when delegating or passing down tasks to others

Attends seminars, workshops, conferences and completes all training as required and/or offered by SHP

Accountability for doing what you say you will do; build self credibility and company credibility by holding self and coworkers accountable

Listens, understands, agrees and commits to achievement of objectives as a part of Medical Team environment

Alters behaviors based on feedback, when behaviors are perceived by others as offensive or embarrassing

Respects the dignity and confidentiality of all patients

Does the right thing consistently, day in and day out, in task and relationship interactions to fulfill or further SHP’s mission and pledge as a nurse

QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduated from a National League of Nursing accredited school and holds current license to practice professional nursing in the appropriate states.

Competence in performance of the following services: Crisis intervention, medical emergencies, physical assessment, medical nursing care, and psychiatric nursing care.

Ability to work without direct, immediate supervision in performing nursing diagnosis and providing appropriate follow through treatment. Maintain a professional attitude at all times.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

Must be aware of need to work cooperatively with correctional staff in situations where medical needs of patient conflict with correctional needs of the prison.

Maintain a current copy of their license and CPR certification on file with SHP.

Work within the boundaries as set forth by your nursing licensure, scope of practice.

Must respect the dignity and confidentiality of all patients.