Licensed Practical Nurse debunks stereotypes, finds right career

Doors open and close. Patients check in and out. The clinic is open and women are being treated and cared for at the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women (NCCW) in York, NE. Licensed Practical Nurse Michelle McAlevy loves to keep moving and being busy. She has worked at the facility since 2006.

McAlevy came to NCCW located in York, Nebraska for two reasons. She wanted a shorter commute to work from her home in the surrounding area and was ready for a change from the work she did at nursing homes. She found both. ”When I first started here, I was a little nervous because all I knew was what I’d seen on TV,” she said. “But I really enjoy it. I treat the women as I would want to be treated and I’m proud of the fact that we get to take care of their medical needs when some of our patients may never have had that opportunity before.”

She knows coming to NDCS was the right fit. “We’re like a clinic,” she said. “We see a lot of people here every day and enjoy being efficient. We follow protocol, do x-rays, vision checks, assist with mental illness, dental appointments and also have a skilled nursing facility with call lights on beds similar to hospitals.”

McAlevy also helps coach interns who come to the facility to gain experience in nursing. “We never have the same day twice,” McAlevy said. “The medical experience we get at any of the facilities is interesting and unique. We get to see things here that other doctor offices never get to experience. I’m always growing and learning.”

At the end of the day, watching the people grow here is very satisfying to McAlevy. She believes the entire facility is teaching people to be more successful. “We’re a team in our own little community,” she said. “This is a different side of nursing. A good one.”

If you're interested in applying to Health Services, NDCS has several positions open. Below is a list of a variety of Health, Behavioral Health and Social Work positions offered at NDCS.

- Physician / Physician Assistant

- Nurse Practitioner

- Physician

- Dentist

- Pharmacist

- Pharmacy Manager

- Nurse Supervisor

- Registered Nurse

- Licensed Practical Nurse

- Radiology

- Medical Records

- Administrative Assistant

- Staff Care Technician (Certified Med Aide)

- Dental Assistant

- Laboratory Scientist

- Medical Radiographer

- Medical Records Clerk

- Optometric Aide

- Pharmacy Technicians 

**Unpaid Internships Available**