Correctional Medical Surgical Nurse
Albuquerque, New Mexico
University of New Mexico Metropolitan Detention Center

Registered Nurse – Medical Surgical (Travel/Contract)

Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Facility Type: Detention Center

Job Overview

• Provide routine and emergency healthcare to patients in a detention center setting with an average daily population of approximately 1640 inmates.
• Conduct health assessments, triage and assess new patients, make referrals to providers including detoxification, dental, and mental health professionals.
• Perform detox rounds per protocol.
• Work night shift: 4 shifts of 12 hours each (18:00 to 6:30), totaling 48 hours per week.
• Contract length: 13 weeks minimum; new contracts and extensions must be at least 10 weeks.
• Guaranteed 36 hours per week; facility may call off up to 3 times during a 13-week assignment.
• Weekend work required every other weekend.
• Open to block scheduling accommodations.
• No local candidates within 100-mile radius accepted.

Required Qualifications

• Valid RN license in New Mexico
• Minimum 1 year of Medical-Surgical nursing experience, with experience within the last year
• Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
• BLS (Basic Life Support) certification issued by American Heart Association or American Red Cross
• ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) certification
• MOAB (Management of Aggressive Behavior) certification
• Experience with High Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC)
• Phlebotomy skills

Orientation and Training

• Completion of facility-specific orientation including:

  • PREA training (to be completed prior to start).
  • Cerner electronic health record training or attestation (required for all RNs starting with the 8/4/25 orientation group).
  • Relias Basic Dysrhythmia Exam (EKG competency) required for certain units; must score 80% overall and 100% on lethal arrhythmia section. Two attempts allowed before contract cancellation. Returning candidates exempt if exam passed within 1 year.
  • Medication and competency exams required with minimum passing scores.
  • Acknowledgement of pass/fail testing and safety manuals.

Additional Information

• Candidates must complete and upload required documentation including social security card, employment application with 3 years of work history, and references.
• A 6-month break is required after completing 4 consecutive assignments or reaching one year of cumulative work at this facility.
• Overtime applies after 48 hours worked per week starting 10/30/2025.
• Facility uses Cerner for charting.
• Parking is free.
• No public transportation nearby; candidates must have reliable transportation arrangements.
• Candidates must check in with lobby officer upon arrival and pick up badge during the first week.

Summary

This is a travel contract position for a Registered Nurse with at least 1 year of correctional nursing experience, working night shifts in a detention center environment. The role requires specialized certifications including MOAB, BLS, and ACLS, and involves providing comprehensive healthcare services to an inmate population. Candidates must meet strict background, health, and competency requirements and be prepared for a minimum 10-week assignment with potential extensions.