Licensed Practical Nurse- 8D

Overview

The Western New York VA Healthcare System is recruiting for a part-time Licensed Practical Nurse for 8D at the Buffalo VA Medical Center in Buffalo, New York. The Licensed Practical Nurse performs assigned duties in a manner that promotes quality health care, positive customer service, and the maintenance of an environment committed to serving the veteran.

Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.

• United States Citizenship:
  Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy
• English Language Proficiency:
  In accordance with 38 U.S.C. 7402(d) – no person shall serve in direct patient care positions unless they are proficient in basic written and spoken English
• Education:
  
  Graduate of a school of practical or vocational nursing approved by the appropriate State agency and/or accredited by the NLNAC at the time the program was completed by the applicant
• Exceptions include health care education in the military service or training in the military service which is accepted by the licensing body in the jurisdiction in which the individual is licensed as qualifying for full LPN/LVN licensure
• Licensure:
  Active, full, current, and unrestricted licensure as a Graduate Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurse in a State, Territory, or Commonwealth (i.e., Puerto Rico), or the District of Columbia
• May qualify based on the Grandfathering Provision described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria)
• Grade Determinations:
  In addition to the basic requirements, the following criteria apply for each grade
• GS-03:
  None beyond the basic requirements
• LPNs at this grade level are expected to perform all duties within the scope of their license (e.g., medication administration) with potential for routine or detailed higher-level review depending on complexity
• GS-04:
  Six months of qualifying experience as an LPN/LVN or graduation from an approved school (which may be waived) plus one year of related nursing care experience
• GS-05:
  Knowledge and ability to provide a full range of practical nursing care to patients with various physical and/or behavioral problems; ability to work as a member of a nursing team; ability to prepare, administer, and document medications; recognition of emergencies; and related competencies
• GS-06:
  Proficiency in initiating, performing, and completing assigned duties in providing care to variable patient populations; judgment in selecting procedures and treatments; observation and documentation of patient conditions; ability to observe and respond to patient needs and educate patients and families

• Proficient in initiating, performing, and completing assigned duties in providing care to variable patient populations
• Prepare, administer, and document actions taken for prescribed medications (oral, topical, subcutaneous, intramuscular, intravenous) and monitor patient responses
• Recognize urgent or emergent patient care situations and initiate appropriate emergency interventions as directed
• Observe, identify, and respond to patient needs for care including medication administration, equipment-assisted care, and patient/family education
• Collaborate with the nursing team and other staff to deliver care that respects emotional, cultural, spiritual, socio-economic, and age-related factors
• Maintain patient privacy and dignity and incorporate customer service standards in all interactions
• Assist in complex diagnostic tests or procedures, including preparation of the patient and handling of instruments or equipment, and monitor the patient before, during, and after procedures
• Serve as a preceptor to less experienced LPNs/LVNs or NAs/HTs related to support duties for complex tests and procedures
• Pursue educational opportunities to enhance nursing knowledge and share new knowledge with staff