License Practical Nurse

Summary

At the Indian Health Service, Licensed Practical Nurses do more than practice medicine—they change lives. Guided by our mission to raise the health of American Indian and Alaska Native people, you will deliver compassionate care where it is needed most. Your expertise brings healing and hope across generations.

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides direct, evidence-based nursing care to patients experiencing acute, sub-acute, or chronic health conditions in inpatient, outpatient, or home care settings. As a vital member of the interdisciplinary healthcare team, the LPN demonstrates clinical competence, sound judgment, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Assignments may range from routine to complex, requiring independent performance of nursing functions within established policies and under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or physician.

• Observing, recording, and reporting changes in patients' physical or emotional condition and contributing to the development and revision of the patient-driven, holistic plan of care.
• Providing safe, comprehensive nursing care to patients across the life span in accordance with established standards, policies, and procedures.
• Preparing and administering prescribed medications (oral, topical, subcutaneous, intramuscular, and intravenous), monitoring for therapeutic and adverse effects, and accurately documenting patient response.
• Performing basic and intermediate nursing procedures and treatments such as sterile dressing changes, catheter care, bladder scanning, blood glucose monitoring, specimen collection, and wound care.
• Recognizing and responding to urgent or emergent situations, initiating basic life support and other emergency measures while awaiting further assistance.
• Assisting with diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including preparing the patient, assembling supplies and instruments, maintaining aseptic/sterile technique, and monitoring the patient before, during, and after procedures.
• Providing education and reinforcement of teaching to patients and families related to disease processes, treatment regimens, and self-care activities.
• Utilizing electronic medical record systems to document care accurately and timely in accordance with facility documentation guidelines.
• Practicing infection control and safety procedures, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to isolation precautions.
• Participating in interdisciplinary team conferences, performance improvement initiatives, and discharge planning to support optimal patient outcomes.
• Establishing therapeutic and respectful relationships with patients and families that foster trust, privacy, and dignity in care delivery.
• Serving as a preceptor to orient and mentor less experienced LPNs, nursing assistants, or health technicians.
• Actively seeking opportunities for continuing education and professional development to enhance clinical knowledge and competency.

U.S. citizenship is required.

Selective Service registration is required for males born after December 31 1959.

A valid Real  required beginning May 7 2025.

Successful completion of an E‑Verify employment verification check is required.

A federal background investigation is required.

Performance of the position will be on rotating shifts: days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Shift rotations may vary from 8-, 10-, and 12‑hour shifts; on‑call or standby duty may be required.

• Licensure
  :
  Candidates must be currently licensed to practice as a practical or vocational nurse in a state, territory, or the District of Columbia, or must have applied for a license to practice. Applicants with completed training but no license may be appointed subject to obtaining licensure during the probationary period. Non‑licensed candidates who have completed training must provide the date of application and jurisdiction.
  
  No appointment can be retained beyond the probationary period if licensure is not attained. Approved candidates are considered fully qualified for GS‑3.
• Experience for GS‑4 and above:
  • Providing pre‑ and post‑operative patient care.
  • Observing,…