Licensed Practical Nurse

Licensed Practical Nurse

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is responsible and accountable for individual nursing practice. Technically proficient in initiating, performing, and completing assigned duties in providing care to variable patient populations. Knowledge and ability to appropriately carry out assigned patient care based on the patients' conditions; to use judgment in selecting the appropriate order and sequence of procedures and treatments; and to accurately recognize, report and record relevant patient information.

The LPN works under the direction of an RN and reports to the Community Living Center Nurse Manager. The LPN is responsible for observing, recording, and reporting changes in the patient's condition, as well as assisting in the development and revision of the patient-driven holistic care plan for life. The LPN is a member of the larger team. The LPN requires a general review of their work by Community Living Center Nurse Manager for appropriateness and conformity with license, policies, and procedures.

The LPN demonstrates active collaboration and communication with the Long Term Care Provider, Long Term Care RN Care Manager, Nursing Assistants, and the family/caregiver, internal and community-based services and disciplines involved in providing care to the patient.

The LPN performs, reports, and records assigned nursing care in the Community Living Centers, including, but not limited to:

• Oxygen therapy
• Medication administration
• Clinical reminders as indicated
• Check expiration dates of meds and supplies
• Delegated procedures and treatments
• Documentation
• Performs EKGs as indicated
• Performs diagnostic procedures such as EKGs, vital signs and blood glucose testing.

Adheres to standards of practice and safe technique in preparation and administration of medication.

Demonstrates understanding of age- and population-specific characteristics that affect the health care needs of the Veteran.

Promptly recognizes urgent or emergent patient care situations, seeks assistance, and effectively intervenes as directed when appropriate.

Based on the patient's goals, provides patient and family health education, to include self-management, prevention, and wellness.

Interacts and communicates appropriately with patients and family members.

Demonstrates professional behavior (i.e., respect, civility, ability to accept constructive criticism), effective communication and interpersonal skills.

Promotes a positive patient-centered environment.

Adheres to principles of infection control, safety, and universal precautions.

Incumbent possesses knowledge of proper handling and pre-cleaning of reusable medical equipment.

Demonstrates competence utilizing special equipment needed to perform job duties.

Follows policy and procedures related to fire and disaster drills, safety, and security measures.

Demonstrates initiative in assisting the functioning of the Community Living Centers.

Assists in the orientation and competency validation of students, peers, and clerical staff.

Maintains confidentiality of electronic, written, and/or verbal patient information.

Maintains a work environment that honors diversity.

Serves as a resource and advocate in the protection.

Completes mandatory reviews, including motivational interviewing, in order to promote patient self-management toward individualized life plan of care.

Supports patient-driven care in a safe, efficient, and cost-effective manner, using evidence-based principles.

Promotes patient and personnel safety.

Participates in the interdisciplinary team in the development, implementation, and evaluation of the patient's/resident's treatment plan.

Observes, identifies, and responds to the patient's needs for nursing, medication, and equipment assisted care and recognizes…