DEPARTMENT: Mercer County Correction Center
SALARY: $68,082.41
LOCATION: Lambertville, NJ
SCHEDULE: During the training period, the schedule is 6:45 AM – 3:00 PM . Upon successful completion of training, employees will be assigned to one of the following shifts based on operational needs:
- 6:45 AM – 3:00 PM
- 2:45 PM – 11:00 PM
- 10:45 PM – 7:00 AM
REPORTS TO:
VACANCIES: 2
POSITION OVERVIEW:
The Mercer County Correction Center is seeking dedicated and compassionate Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) to join our Correctional Healthcare team. Working under the direction of a Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurses provide direct patient care to incarcerated individuals while supporting the delivery of safe, effective, and high-quality healthcare services within a secure correctional environment.
This position is responsible for administering medications and treatments, monitoring patient health, maintaining accurate medical documentation, assisting with clinical procedures, and collaborating with physicians, registered nurses, and correctional staff to ensure continuity of care. This is an excellent opportunity for nursing professionals who are committed to public service and delivering quality patient care in a challenging and rewarding setting.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Provide direct nursing care to incarcerated individuals under the supervision of a Registered Nurse and in accordance with physician orders.
- Administer prescribed medications, injections, treatments, and therapeutic procedures within the scope of Licensed Practical Nursing practice.
- Monitor patient conditions by obtaining and documenting vital signs, observing physical and behavioral changes, and promptly reporting concerns to supervisory nursing staff.
- Assist physicians and Registered Nurses during examinations, treatments, and clinical procedures.
- Collect laboratory specimens and assist with diagnostic testing and routine medical procedures.
- Maintain accurate electronic and written medical records, including medication administration, treatments, assessments, and patient observations.
- Monitor medication effectiveness and observe for adverse reactions or side effects, reporting findings as appropriate.
- Maintain accountability for medications, including controlled substances, in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and facility procedures.
- Assist with patient admissions, transfers, and discharges while ensuring continuity of care.
- Educate patients regarding medications, personal hygiene, health maintenance, and treatment plans as appropriate.
- Maintain treatment rooms, medical supplies, equipment, and inventory to ensure readiness for patient care.
- Adhere to infection prevention, safety, and security protocols within the correctional healthcare setting.
- Collaborate effectively with physicians, registered nurses, mental health professionals, correctional officers, and other healthcare personnel.
- Participate in departmental training, continuing education, and quality improvement initiatives.
- Perform other related duties as required.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Graduation from an accredited Practical Nursing program.
Previous correctional, clinical, long-term care, or hospital nursing experience is preferred but not required.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:
- Current New Jersey Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in good standing.
- Possession of a valid New Jersey driver's license may be required depending on assignment.
- Ability to meet the physical requirements necessary to safely perform nursing duties, including lifting and assisting patients when necessary.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Knowledge of practical nursing principles, techniques, and standards of patient care.
- Knowledge of medication administration, infection prevention, patient assessment, and clinical documentation.
- Knowledge of medications, their therapeutic effects, and potential adverse reactions.
- Ability to recognize changes in patient conditions and communicate findings promptly and effectively.
- Ability to provide safe, compassionate, and patient-centered nursing care within the scope of Licensed Practical Nursing practice.
- Ability to maintain accurate medical records and utilize electronic health record systems.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to establish effective working relationships with physicians, registered nurses, correctional staff, patients, and other healthcare professionals.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment while working in a secure correctional healthcare environment.
- Commitment to professionalism, confidentiality, and quality patient care.
BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH MERCER COUNTY:
Mercer County is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports the health, financial security, and professional development of our employees. Benefits include:
- Access to health and wellness coverage
- Retirement and deferred compensation plans
- Generous paid time off and leave programs
Ongoing training and tuition assistance
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Mercer County EEO/ Civil Service Statement & Residency Requirements :
Mercer County is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and accessible workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, nationality, ancestry, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, marital status, civil union status, domestic partnership status, familial status, religion, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, genetic information, liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, disability, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law.
As a Civil Service employer under the State of New Jersey, all candidates must comply with New Jersey Civil Service Commission regulations and guidelines. Mercer County residency is required. Non-residents must establish residency within one (1) year of employment.
Mercer County is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state laws, specifically in accordance with the New Jersey State Policy Prohibiting Discrimination in the Workplace .
