Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) –Corrections
Location: Texas
Department: Correctional Healthcare / Nursing Services
Job Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, or Per Diem
Shift: Days, Evenings, Nights, Weekends, or Rotating Shifts
Reports To: Nursing Supervisor / Healthcare Services AdministratorJob SummaryThe Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) provides direct nursing care to incarcerated individuals within a correctional facility, including prisons, jails, and detention centers. The LVN is responsible for administering medications and treatments, monitoring patient health, documenting clinical findings, and assisting with the management of acute and chronic medical conditions. Working under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN), physician, or other authorized healthcare provider, the LVN supports the delivery of safe, effective, and compassionate healthcare while maintaining security protocols and complying with Texas nursing regulations and correctional facility policies.Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide direct nursing care to incarcerated individuals in accordance with established care plans, provider orders, and facility policies.
- Conduct nursing observations, collect health information, obtain vital signs, and report changes in patient condition to the supervising RN or healthcare provider.
- Administer prescribed medications and treatments within the LVN scope of practice and according to established medication administration procedures.
- Assist with sick-call services, chronic disease management, and routine medical follow-up.
- Perform wound care, dressing changes, specimen collection, and other nursing procedures as assigned.
- Monitor patients with chronic conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and other ongoing medical needs.
- Assist with intake screenings, health assessments, and identification of urgent medical concerns according to facility protocols and scope of practice.
- Recognize medical emergencies and initiate appropriate interventions within training and scope of practice while promptly notifying the supervising nurse or provider.
- Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential documentation in the electronic medical record (EMR).
- Collaborate with RNs, physicians, mental health professionals, and other healthcare team members to coordinate patient care.
- Follow infection prevention procedures, medication security protocols, and applicable healthcare standards.
- Maintain professional boundaries and protect the privacy, dignity, and confidentiality of incarcerated individuals.
- Follow correctional facility security procedures, including inmate movement protocols, contraband restrictions, and staff safety requirements.
- Communicate effectively with correctional officers and security personnel regarding healthcare-related coordination while protecting confidential medical information.
- Provide patient education regarding medications, disease prevention, treatment compliance, and general health maintenance.
- Participate in emergency response drills, quality improvement activities, and required staff training.
Qualifications
- Current, active Texas Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) license issued by the Texas Board of Nursing, or eligibility for Texas licensure.
- Graduation from an approved vocational nursing program.
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, as required by the employer.
- Previous correctional healthcare, acute care, long-term care, or outpatient nursing experience preferred.
- Knowledge of medication administration, chronic disease management, infection control, and nursing documentation.
- Ability to maintain professional boundaries and deliver impartial, respectful care in a secure environment.
- Strong clinical observation, communication, critical-thinking, and organizational skills.
- Ability to remain calm and respond appropriately during medical emergencies and challenging situations.
- Ability to comply with facility security requirements, background checks, and applicable employment screening.
- Additional certifications or training may be required based on the correctional facility and patient population.
Work EnvironmentThis position is based in a correctional healthcare setting in Texas, such as a county jail, state prison, or detention facility. The LVN works in a secure environment and must follow established security procedures while delivering patient care. The role may require extended periods of standing or walking, interaction with incarcerated individuals, emergency response duties, and rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.Compensation and BenefitsCompensation is determined by the employer, facility location, experience, qualifications, and employment status. Benefits may include medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, paid holidays, and continuing education opportunities.Equal Employment OpportunityThe employer provides equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and complies with applicable federal and Texas employment laws.Application RequirementsApplicants should submit a résumé, verification of current Texas LVN licensure, relevant certifications, and professional references as requested by the hiring organization. Candidates may be required to complete a criminal background check, employment verification, and facility-specific security screening.