Kathleen A. Blanton

Class of 99, University of Kentucky

After working in a retail setting for the past two years, going to the Federal Correctional Institution in Sheridan, Oregon took some adjustment. Although a very different population, it was not difficult to work with inmates - I just learned to be more cautious about everything in the workplace. The ten weeks I spent in Sheridan have been the most educational and beneficial time during my college career.

Initially, I became acclimated to my surroundings in the pharmacy and at the prison in general. Along with two dental COSTEPs, I went through four days of training and familiarization with the institution. Once in the pharmacy, I first filled prescriptions in order to learn the formulary and the location of medications. After a few days, I logged onto the computer system, read through charts, and entered new prescriptions. This allowed me the opportunity to review treatment plans and make interventions when necessary.

Another area where I was able to play a large role was in the Isoniazid (INH) Clinic for prophylaxis of active tuberculosis. My preceptor, LT Chris Bina, explained how to schedule and order labs, initiate therapy, monitor for side effects, monitor compliance, and counsel new patients on INH treatment. He allowed me to take over many of the duties related to the INH clinic for the summer. With its hands-on approach, the INH clinic taught me much more about tuberculosis and isoniazid than was ever discussed in class.

During my summer, I was able to help with two drug utilization evaluations; one on Warfarin and the other on HMG CoA Reductase Inhibitors. LT Bina and I went through the Warfarin DUE together, then I was allowed to pursue the HMG CoA DUE on my own. The information we compiled was distributed to the Continuous Quality Improvement Committee and follow-up education for the medical staff was provided when deemed necessary. Hopefully, the information on the cholesterol-lowering drugs can soon be utilized in the initiation of a Lipid Clinic at FCI Sheridan.

Finally, running pill line was the most unique part of working in the prison system. This was when I issued controlled substances and psychotropic medications to the inmates dose by dose. There was nothing comparable in other settings where I have worked. Although nervous the first time I was the one opposite the inmate, I actually found it exciting to administer medications. Everything I learned while at Sheridan was something new and different from previous jobs and this made work enjoyable. Experiencing two body alarms, a week long lock-down, pill line in the housing units, Psych Clinic, and the death of an inmate never left a dull moment.

While at FCI Sheridan, not only did I learn more related to my future degree, but also about different career options, the Bureau of Prisons, and the Public Health Service. This summer has made me seriously consider a future with the Bureau of Prisons, and I will recommend a JR COSTEP rotation to anyone. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn more about my career, see different areas of the country, and have an enjoyable yet educational summer.

Please e-mail questions and comments to potter@fred.net Last Updated: January 26, 1998.