Corrections Nurse

Work for Jefferson County and take advantage of six month’s worth of vacation and sick leave upfront and low-cost family health insurance! Enjoy work-life balance.  

Summary
Under direct supervision of the Public Health Nurse Supervisor, and the general supervision of the Public Health Director, the experienced RN performs first-line assessment and care of Adults in Custody (AIC) in the County Correctional Facility exercising considerable independent judgment in all aspects of the medical program within a multi-team network.  

Distinguishing Characteristics
The Corrections Nurse performs a variety of duties in the jail facility, to provide initial screening, care, and application of medications to AICs in custody, including record keeping of services.  This position works in a clinical environment/Jail atmosphere with deadlines and a high level of public contact, ranging from congenial to confrontational.

• Provide initial health assessment and ongoing health care to all AICs.
• Continually assess mental health status of all AICs, identifying change in emotional parameters. 
• Assess and act upon all AICs medical requests within forty-eight hours.
• Maintain complete medical records for each AIC.
• Triage patient care and make necessary outside referrals to ensure their welfare.
• Assess and monitor all drug/alcohol detox patients for medical stability or change in status.
• Ensure compliance with state and county regulations and medical standing orders.
• Ensure Correctional Deputies are compliant with health care policies.
• Establish administrative policies and procedures for the department. 
• Counsel and provide testing for all STDs & communicable diseases for patients.
• Continue with outside resources to promote optimal outcome for patients.
• Ensure that all medications, lab tests and health care management are in the best interest of the patient.
• Maintain inventory of all medical supplies, including medications, check expiration dates and order when necessary. 
• Stock infirmary.
• Monitor the biohazard waste box and call for pick-up as necessary.
• Review all billing for services.
• Regular attendance is an essential function of the position.
• Performs other duties as assigned that support the overall objective of the position.

Knowledge and Skills
Knowledge of principles and practices of professional nursing. 

Abilities
Requires ability to function independently with minimum supervision; act in a professional manner within a secured environment; work flexible hours/shifts; respond to stress and medical emergencies with haste and sound judgment; maintain medical records; write clear and concise reports; communicate effectively in both oral and written form; operate a computer; operate general office equipment; ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with individuals, whether members of the public or coworker, from diverse groups and backgrounds. Ability to use microscope, computer and basic medical equipment. Ability to pass a background check. 

Physical Abilities
Ability to sit, walk and stand for extended periods of time.  The ability to stoop, bend, kneel or crawl occasionally.  Ability to lift, push or pull more than 30 lbs when necessary.  Subject to pre-employment physical capacity testing to this job description and any other SO requirements.

Education and Experience 
Completion of an accredited Registered Nurse program.   Experience in client education.   STD/HIV education/examination, trauma assessment and correctional nursing training and experience.    

Licenses and Certification
Current license as a Registered Nurse in the state of Oregon.   A valid Oregon driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.Working Conditions
Work is performed indoors and outdoors where some safety considerations exist from physical labor and handling of light-to-medium weight, yet, awkward materials.

Probationary Period
This position is based on the successful completion of a nine-month probationary period