VN 02 – 03/24 Nurse Practitioner – Fiji Corrections Service (FCS)

JOB DESCRIPTIONS – NURSE PRACTITIONER

Job Description: Nurse Practitioner – Fiji Corrections Service (FCS)

Position Title: Nurse Practitioner

Reports to: Senior Medical Officer

Indirect Reports: Correctional Officers, Allied Health Staff

Position Purpose

The Nurse Practitioner at the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS) is responsible for delivering advanced, high-quality nursing care to inmates and staff within correctional facilities. This role involves assessing, diagnosing, treating, and managing acute and chronic medical conditions, with a focus on holistic care, health promotion, and disease prevention.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive health assessments, including physical exams and diagnostics.
• Diagnose and treat common acute and chronic illnesses among inmates.
• Provide preventive care, including immunizations, screenings, and health counseling.
• Prescribe medications and treatments within the scope of practice.
• Collaborate with physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers as necessary.
• Manage and monitor inmates with chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and HIV/AIDS.
• Provide immediate care in emergency situations and stabilize patients before transferring to hospital care if required.
• Lead and support emergency medical response efforts during crises or incidents in correctional facilities.
• Develop and deliver health education programs for inmates and staff on various topics, including hygiene, nutrition, sexual health, and substance abuse prevention.
• Counsel inmates on managing their health conditions and adopting healthier lifestyles.
• Monitor and manage infection control measures within the facility.
• Work closely with public health authorities to address outbreaks or communicable disease threats.
• Conduct routine health checks and screening programs.
• Serve as the key liaison between the medical team and correctional facility administration.
• Coordinate with external medical specialists and hospitals for referrals and follow-up care.
• Collaborate with mental health teams to ensure integrated physical and mental healthcare for inmates.
• Maintain accurate medical records, including assessments, diagnoses, treatment plans, and medication administration.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations, policies, and procedures in correctional healthcare.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss complex cases.
• Assist in the planning and execution of healthcare-related policies and initiatives within the FCS.
• Supervise and mentor nursing and healthcare staff within the facility.
• Oversee the delivery of nursing care and ensure adherence to professional
• Provide training and support for continuing education for nursing staff.

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing (or equivalent) with a valid license with the Fiji Nursing Council. Minimum of 5 years of nursing experience, preferably in a corrections or health institutions.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment of inmates.
• Adherence to infection control and prevention protocols.
• Reduced incidents of health-related emergencies through effective management.
• Positive feedback from inmates regarding healthcare services.
• Accurate and timely documentation of patient care.
• Effective coordination with healthcare teams and external medical providers.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong clinical assessment and diagnostic skills.
• Ability to work independently and make sound clinical judgments.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the unique healthcare needs within a correctional setting.
• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Ability to handle high-stress environments and maintain professionalism in challenging situations.

Working Conditions

The Nurse Practitioner will work within correctional facilities, which may involve exposure to emotionally charged situations, infectious diseases, and high-security environments.

Flexible hours may be required, including weekend or emergency shifts.