Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Summary: Under the direction of the Health Services Administrator (HSA) and Nurse Practitioner (NP) this role supports the daily operations of the Luna County Detention Center Medical Department. This position assists in the delivery of inmate care through the nursing process of assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation. Under the supervision of the RN(s), directs and guides inmate teaching and activities that commensurate with his/her education and demonstrated competencies. The ideal candidate will have the skills to deal with individuals at all levels, including detainees, officers, and other Detention Center employees.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities: The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

• Under supervision of a Registered Nurse, assists in the assessment of the physical, psychological, and social dimensions of inmates in the Health Care Unit and, as necessary, in the housing units
• Assists in planning and implementing individual treatment programs, using available knowledge, diagnostic tests, resources, and consults with RNs and other staff as appropriate while applying knowledge and resources in planning care and inmate teaching
• Administers medications according to proper techniques and procedures, including IV therapy (when certified), and all other approved routes of administration
• Assists the provider in evaluations, medical procedures, and minor surgical procedures as necessary, using SOAP form of charting
• Obtains body fluid specimens and performs EKGs using proper techniques and procedures
• Maintains and documents controlled substances and medical equipment
• Intervenes in a variety of situations with proper safety techniques, procedures, and standard precautions
• Implements nutrition and therapeutic diet plans through proper techniques and procedures as ordered by provider
• Triaging and assessing healthcare requests
• Other duties as assigned 

Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Experience: 

• Graduate from an accredited LPN/LVN program or Paramedic License. 
• Have and maintain current licensure as a LPN/LVN within the state of employment. Must provide a copy of current nursing license
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Must be able to pass a criminal background investigation and a pre-employment drug screen
• Prior experience in a correctional or jail setting is preferred

Competencies

• Clear and effective verbal and written communication with all coworkers, supervisors, jail administration, and patients
• Excellent verbal and written comprehension
• Excellent deductive reasoning and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent organizational skills
• Ability to use a computer and use/learn a variety of software, including site-specific computer programs
• Must demonstrate ability to appropriately and safely use standard medical equipment
• Ability to respect the dignity and confidentiality of inmates

Employment Requirements

• Must maintain all certifications, educational requirements, licensing, etc. for this position
• Must have current CPR/BLS certification
• Must have current TB test (taken within one year)
• Must adhere to all facility policies and procedures as well as the policies and procedures listed in the Employee Handbook
• Willing to assist coworkers in the job duties and work overtime if required; may act as a resource to other coworkers
• Maintains confidentiality, dignity, and security of health records and protected health information in compliance with HIPAA requirements

Security Requirements 
 Must undergo security training and orientation on facility safety policies and procedures
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 Physical/Mental Requirements
 This position routinely requires (but is not limited to) the following:

• Ability to both remain stationary and move/traverse throughout the facility, including up and down flights of stairs
• Ability to position oneself in different spaces
• Ability to convey and discern information in a conversation, frequently communicate with patients; must be able to exchange accurate information.
• Ability to identify and detect objects and assess situations from a variety of distances
• Ability to stay calm in stressful and demanding situations
• Frequently transports objects up to 50 pounds

Work Environment
Work is performed inside a correctional facility. Employees are exposed to some level of risk and/or harm by inmates, including exposure to blood borne pathogens. Employee is expected to work in accordance with all security rules and regulations to minimize the risk of danger and/or harm to themselves or other employees.

Other
Employee must comply with all current and future State, Federal, and Local laws and regulations, court orders, Administrative Directives and standards and policies, including those of professional organizations such as ACA, NCCHC, etc.?