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Prison Nurse Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Centurion

LPN | Phillips State Prison (79317)

Buford, GA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Phillips State Prison Buford, GA Position: Licensed Practical Nurse Shift : Full-time Day shift 12 hour shift Weekend coverage : Rotating weekends Compensation: $30-$35 an hour $1.00 additional for ...

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How much do prison nurse jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for prison nurse in the United States is $38.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.57 and $43.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Prison Nurse Do?

As a prison nurse, also known as a correctional nurse, your responsibilities are to provide general medical care for the inmate population in a prison facility. You work alongside other nurses, physicians, and medical professionals. Depending on the needs of the medical unit, you may also assess patients to screen for substance misuse or mental health issues. This career requires excellent communication, observation, and critical thinking skills, as well as an understanding of your employer’s security procedures and protocols.

What kind of nurses work in prisons?

Prison nurses are registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs) who provide healthcare services to inmates in correctional facilities. They assess, treat, and manage a variety of medical conditions, often working in secure environments that require knowledge of security protocols and sometimes specialized training in mental health or substance abuse. These nurses must be adaptable, detail-oriented, and able to handle high-pressure situations within the correctional setting.

What are some common challenges faced by prison nurses and how can they be managed?

Prison nurses often encounter unique challenges such as managing patients with complex mental health issues, providing care in a secure environment, and maintaining professional boundaries with incarcerated individuals. These challenges can be managed by staying up-to-date with correctional health protocols, participating in regular training on safety and de-escalation, and collaborating closely with correctional officers and other healthcare professionals. Building strong communication skills and resilience also helps prison nurses provide high-quality care while maintaining their own well-being.

What are prison nurses?

Prison nurses are registered nurses who provide healthcare to incarcerated individuals within correctional facilities. They are responsible for assessing, treating, and managing the medical needs of inmates, often under challenging and unique conditions. Their duties include administering medications, wound care, health screenings, and responding to emergencies. Prison nurses must also be vigilant about safety and security while delivering compassionate care. They play a critical role in maintaining the health and wellbeing of the prison population.

How to make an extra 2000 a month as a nurse?

Prison nurses can increase their income by taking on overtime shifts, working additional part-time or per diem assignments, or obtaining specialized certifications such as correctional health or mental health nursing. Some may also consider freelance consulting or teaching nursing courses to supplement their income, depending on their experience and credentials.

What is the difference between Prison Nurse vs Correctional Nurse?

AspectPrison NurseCorrectional Nurse
CredentialsRN license, CPR certificationRN license, CPR certification
Work EnvironmentPrison/jail healthcare unitsCorrectional facilities, detention centers
Employer & IndustryState/federal prisons, jailsCorrectional institutions, detention centers
Job FocusProviding healthcare to inmates, managing chronic conditionsSimilar duties, often used interchangeably with Prison Nurse

Prison Nurse and Correctional Nurse roles are very similar, often used interchangeably. Both require RN licensure and involve providing healthcare within correctional facilities. The main difference is terminology, with 'Correctional Nurse' being a broader term that encompasses roles in various detention settings. Both positions focus on inmate health, managing chronic conditions, and emergency care in secure environments.

How much do nurses who work in prisons make?

Prison nurses typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and facility. They often work in secure environments requiring specialized training and certifications such as CPR and first aid.

How to become a prison nurse?

To become a prison nurse, you need to first earn a nursing license by completing an accredited nursing program and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. Relevant skills include knowledge of mental health and correctional healthcare, and some positions may require additional training or certifications in correctional nursing or security procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Prison Nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Prison Nurse, you need a solid background in clinical nursing, emergency response, and mental health care, usually backed by a current RN license and relevant experience. Familiarity with electronic health records, medication management systems, and security protocols specific to correctional facilities is crucial. Strong interpersonal skills, resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you build trust with inmates and work effectively within a multidisciplinary team. These skills are vital for ensuring quality care, maintaining safety, and addressing the unique challenges of the correctional environment.
More about Prison Nurse jobs
What cities are hiring for Prison Nurse jobs? Cities with the most Prison Nurse job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Prison Nurse jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Prison Nurse jobs are:
Prison Nurse jobs near you
Infographic showing various Prison Nurse job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,321 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Registered Nurse (RN) | Central State Prison (81445)

Registered Nurse (RN) | Central State Prison (81445)

Centurion

Macon, GA • On-site

$41 - $46/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Employer: Centurion Health
Location: Central State Prison
Position: Registered Nurse (RN)
Employment type: Full-time Day
Compensation: $41-$46 an hour
Centurion Health is proud to be the provider of mental health and medical services for the Georgia Department of Corrections. We are currently seeking a Full-time Registered Nurse (RN) to join our day shift team at Central State Prison.
This role is ideal for nurses who prefer consistent day hours, competitive pay, and a structured clinical environment, without the constant interruptions and stress of traditional hospital settings.
Why work as an RN at Central State Prison with Centurion Health?
• Clear policies and workflows
• Dedicated security presence and clear patient accountability
• No family or visitor interactions, reducing stress and distractions
• Supportive nursing leadership and multidisciplinary collaboration
Benefits
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Company-paid Life and Disability Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Generous Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Ongoing training and career growth opportunities
Position Summary
The Registered Nurse (RN) provides holistic, patient-centered nursing care to an incarcerated population within scope of practice. The RN works under the direction of the Director of Nursing (DON) and/or Nursing Supervisor, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to assess, identify, and respond to patients' medical, mental health, and psychosocial needs.
Key Responsibilities
• Deliver safe, ethical, and evidence-based nursing care
• Administer medications and treatments as ordered
• Monitor patient conditions and report change appropriately
• Collaborate with medical, mental health, and custody teams
• Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation
• Follow established safety, security, and infection control procedure
Qualifications
• Associate's degree in nursing required
• Active Registered Nurse (RN) license within the state of Georgia MSL or Compact Must be active
• Current CPR certification Must be active
• Ability to obtain required security clearance, including drug screen and background check

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