Licensed Practical Nurse

Summary

The primary function is to administer skilled nursing care, under the supervision of a registered nurse, for clients of all ages in their place of residence, coordinate care with a multi-disciplinary team, patient/family, and referring agency.

Essential Functions

Demonstrates knowledge and competency in performing baseline nursing skills as outlines in Agency policy and clinical policy; maintains clinical competencies according to home care standards; complies with state practice act. Identifies and determines priority of the patient’s need/problems, anticipates emergencies, complications of pathology and assists others in implementing complex care. Administers all medications and treatments according to Agency policy, accepted standards of care and home care guidelines.

Communicates effectively with the RN, patients, families, and physicians; documents patient status, patient needs/problems, nursing interventions/patient response, safety interventions and education/teaching. Completes and submits documentation timely and accurately according to Agency policy. Provides care under the supervision of the RN according to the plan of care established by the physician.

Under the direction of the RN, supplements the nursing care needs of the patient as provided by the RN and as specified in the POC. Complete appropriate clinical and progress notes, documenting outcomes of interventions. Provide services in accordance with organizational policies and procedures and regulations that define scope of practice.

Assist the RN and/or physician in performing specialized duties related to end-of-life care. Prepare equipment and materials for treatment adhering to aseptic technique as required. Assess patient/family response to care, ensuring communication of information appropriate team members.

Promote Agency philosophy and administrative policies to ensure quality of care. Maintains patient rights and dignity. Maintains a committed and cooperative attitude with staffing, promotion of teamwork and harmony by readily assisting other staff and patients; participates in case conferences/team meetings.

Makes visits as scheduled and participates in on-call rotation as required.

Additional

Responsibilities

Performs related duties as assigned or requested. Conforms to all applicable Agency policies and procedures. Participates actively in continuing education and in-services. Maintains confidentiality of patient information and business trade practices Assumes accountability for reporting incidents and complaints according to Agency policy.

Knowledge/ Skills/ Abilities

Organizational skills Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints, regulatory agencies or members of the business community. Time management Cooperative attitude Basic math skills related to patient care.

Age-Related Competencies

Demonstrates the basic knowledge and skills necessary to identify age-specific patient needs appropriate for this position.

Information Management

Treats all information and data within the scope of the position with appropriate confidentiality and security

Risk Management

Cooperates fully in all risk management activities and investigations. Keeps abreast of changes in health care law. Maintains agency/program compliance with local, state, and federal laws as well as state accreditation standards.

Minimum Position

Qualifications

Education

Graduate of an accredited School of Nursing for LVN or LPN

Experience

• One year of experience in nursing
• Training: Appropriate competency assessments completed
• License /

Certification

Current State LVN / LPN license; current CPR; current driver’s license and proof of auto liability

Environmental Conditions

Works in patient's home in various conditions, possible exposure to blood and body fluids and infectious diseases. Ability to work flexible schedule, ability to travel locally, some exposure to unpleasant weather. Moderate noise level; tasks may involve moderate stress and emotional demands.

Physical

Requirements

Prolonged standing and walking required. Ability to move up to 50 lbs. and move patients. Requires working under some stressful conditions to meet deadlines, to identify patient needs, to make quick decisions and resource acquisition; meet patient/family psychosocial needs. Requires hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity. Ability to utilize durable medical equipment in the home.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities.