Tajha Monahan

As a Correctional Nurse, I provide high-quality nursing care to incarcerated individuals within a correctional facility. This role involves assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating patient care in collaboration with interdisciplinary teams while maintaining security and adhering to facility and legal protocols. I also ensure that all healthcare services provided meet professional standards and comply with state and federal regulations.

Some key responsibilities include:

• Conducting initial and ongoing health assessments for inmates, including intake screenings, physical exams, and chronic disease management.
• Administer medications and treatments as prescribed, ensuring accurate documentation and adherence to safety protocols.
• Respond to medical emergencies within the facility, providing first aid, CPR, and trauma care as needed.
• Maintain accurate and timely medical records in compliance with HIPAA and facility policies.
• Collaborate with physicians, mental health professionals, and correctional officers to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care.
• Educate patients about health conditions, medications, and preventive care practices.
• Participate in infection control, quality improvement, and safety programs.
• Maintain security awareness and follow all safety and custody procedures while providing care.
• Assist with release planning. Coordinating with outside resources, ensuring a smooth transition into the community.

As a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) I provided direct patient care and clinical support in an outpatient setting. Under the supervision of a Registered Nurse or Physician, the LPN assists in patient assessments, treatments, and education, ensuring efficient, high-quality care that promotes patient health and satisfaction. I also was very involved in assisting with medical procedures at this facility.

• Obtain and document patient vital signs, medical history, and chief complaints.
• Prepare patients for examinations, procedures, and treatments.
• Administer medications and injections as ordered by the doctor.
• Perform basic laboratory tests, specimen collection, and diagnostic screenings.
• Assist with minor and more extensive procedures (e.g., wound care, dressing changes, immunizations, emergency care suturing, and vasectomy’s).
• Accurately record patient data in electronic health records (EHR) was very important.
• I provided patient education and resource's regarding medications, treatments, and preventive care.

• Administering prescribed medications and treatments accurately and in a timely manner.
• Monitor residents for changes in condition and report findings to the RN, physician, or nurse practitioner.
• Assist with daily living activities, including hygiene, nutrition, mobility, and comfort.
• Provide wound care, catheter care, and other nursing procedures as ordered.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in residents’ medical records and electronic health systems.
• Communicate was key with residents, families, and interdisciplinary team members!
  I participated in care conferences contributing to care plan development.