Charge Nurse

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center; Lubbock (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Day shift weekend differential

Night shift weekday differential

Night shift weekend differential

Job summary

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Managed Care is seeking a compassionate Charge Nurse (RN) to oversee unit operations and mentor nursing staff within a corrections health setting. You will ensure high-quality, patient-centered care for inmates and coordinate with the healthcare team.

The role requires an active Texas RN license, at least two years of nursing experience with six months in an RN role, and duties include med administration, health assessments, wound care, and health

Qualifications

• Graduate from an accredited nursing program.
• Two years of nursing experience, with at least 6 months as an RN.
• Possession of a valid, current RN license as approved by the Texas State Board of Examiners.

Responsibilities

• Oversee clinical and administrative operations of the unit and guide staff including RNs, LVNs, and CMA staff.
• Conduct initial health assessments for inmates and participate in crisis management.
• Administer medications as prescribed, including IV push when needed.
• Monitor for adverse drug reactions and intervene as necessary.
• Perform wound care and dressing changes; collect and record vital signs.
• Assist with diagnostic tests such as blood draws and ECGs.
• Provide health education and counseling on disease prevention and medication adherence.
• Maintain medical records and continuity of care for inmates.

Skills

Clinical assessment

Medication administration

Vital signs monitoring

Wound care

Patient education

Education

Texas RN license

Nursing degree

Tools

EMR/EHR systems

Job description

Charge Nurse (RN)

Are you a compassionate and dedicated Registered Nurse (RN) looking for a fulfilling career where your skills and empathy truly make a difference? Join our team as a Charge Nurse (RN). At Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Managed Care, be a part of a team committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate healthcare. We provide medical, mental health, and dental services to patients in 22 facilities across West Texas with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Our values-based culture guides us in everything we do, ensuring patient-centered care in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Charge nurse involves overseeing the clinical and administrative operations of the unit, providing guidance to staff members including other Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), and Correctional Medication Aides (CMA) as well as other similar licensed staff, and ensuring high-quality patient care is delivered.
• Conducting initial health assessments for newly admitted inmates, including admissions to the Unit infirmary, Crisis Management, and the Program for the Aggressive Mentally Ill Offender (PAMIO).
• Administers medications to inmates, as prescribed by physicians or nurse practitioner, both from pill windows and cell side. Administers Intravenous (IV) push medications as needed.
• Monitoring inmates for adverse reactions to medications and intervening as necessary.
• Performing basic medical procedures, such as wound care and dressing changes.
• Collecting and recording vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature.
• Assisting with diagnostic tests and procedures, such as blood draws and electrocardiograms.
• Providing health education and counseling to inmates on topics such as disease prevention, healthy lifestyle choices, and medication adherence.
• Assisting with the maintenance of medical records and charts for all inmates.
• Assisting with the management of chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma.
• Assisting with the screening of inmates for infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and hepatitis.
• Collaborating with other members of the healthcare team to ensure continuity of care for inmates who require specialty services outside the prison setting.
• The function of a behavioral health professional is to conduct assessments, administer medication, respond to crises, provide education and referrals, document patient records, collaborate with other healthcare professionals, advocate for patients' rights, follow safety protocols, and stay current on research and trends in prison mental health nursing.
• The function of an infirmary nurse is to conduct comprehensive assessments, administer medication and treatments, monitor patients' physical and mental health, provide wound care, assist with activities of daily living, communicate with the healthcare team, educate patients about adhering to infection control protocols to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in both short and long-term care settings, as well as in hospice and mental health observation.

Shift Differential

• Day Shift Employees: Earn an extra $4.00 per hour for shifts worked on Saturday and Sunday.
• Night Shift Employees:
  • Earn an extra $4.00 per hour for shifts worked Monday through Friday.
  • Earn an extra $8.00 per hour for shifts worked on Saturday and Sunday.

Qualifications

Graduate from an accredited nursing program. Two years of nursing experience, with at least 6 months of that experience as a Registered Nurse. Possession of a valid, current RN license as approved by the Texas State Board of Examiners.

Benefits

• Health Plans + Supplemental Coverage Options – Individual health insurance provided at no cost for full-time team members
• Paid Time Off – Including holidays, vacation, sick leave and more
• Retirement Plans
• Wellness Programs
• Certified Mother-Friendly Workplace

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information or status as a protected veteran.