DEPARTMENT: Mercer County Correction Center
SALARY: $83,809.03
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: 1
POSITION OVERVIEW:
The Mercer County Correction Center is seeking a compassionate, motivated, and professional Graduate Nurse to join our Correctional Healthcare team. This position provides direct nursing care to incarcerated individuals while working under the supervision of licensed nursing leadership and in collaboration with physicians and other healthcare professionals.
The Graduate Nurse plays a vital role in delivering quality patient care within a secure correctional environment by assessing patient needs, administering medications and treatments, monitoring medical conditions, maintaining accurate medical documentation, and promoting overall health and wellness. This position offers an excellent opportunity for newly licensed Registered Nurses to begin their nursing careers while gaining valuable clinical experience in a dynamic and multidisciplinary healthcare setting.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Provide professional nursing care to incarcerated individuals in accordance with physician orders, nursing standards, and established correctional healthcare policies.
- Administer prescribed medications, treatments, immunizations, and therapeutic procedures.
- Assess, monitor, and document patient conditions, reporting changes or concerns to physicians and supervisory nursing staff.
- Assist physicians and advanced practice providers during examinations and medical procedures.
- Maintain accurate electronic and written medical records, including medication administration, treatments, assessments, and patient progress notes.
- Collect laboratory specimens and assist with diagnostic testing and routine clinical procedures.
- Respond appropriately to medical emergencies and provide first aid and emergency nursing care as needed.
- Educate patients regarding medications, treatment plans, hygiene, disease prevention, and healthy living practices.
- Maintain accurate accountability of medications, including controlled substances, in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and facility procedures.
- Collaborate with physicians, nurses, mental health professionals, correctional staff, and other healthcare providers to ensure continuity of patient care.
- Observe and maintain infection prevention and control standards throughout the facility.
- Assist with health screenings, intake evaluations, chronic care management, and other nursing services as assigned.
- Maintain patient confidentiality while complying with all applicable healthcare regulations and correctional security procedures.
- Participate in departmental training, continuing education, and quality improvement initiatives.
- Perform other related duties as required.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Graduation from an accredited school of nursing.
New graduates are encouraged to apply. Previous nursing experience is preferred but not required.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:
- Current registration as a Professional Registered Nurse (RN) in the State of New Jersey.
- 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 professional nursing principles, practices, and standards of patient care.
- Knowledge of medication administration, infection prevention, patient assessment, and clinical documentation.
- Ability to assess patient conditions and respond appropriately in emergency and non-emergency situations.
- Ability to maintain accurate medical records and utilize electronic health record systems.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary healthcare environment.
- Ability to exercise sound clinical judgment while working in a secure correctional setting.
- Ability to establish professional working relationships with healthcare staff, correctional personnel, and patients.
- Commitment to providing compassionate, ethical, and patient-centered care while maintaining safety and security.
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 .
