Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Qualifications:

Certification as a Licensed Practical Nurse in the State

Lines of Authority and reporting responsibilites: Report to the Director of Nursing/PT Supervisor, Administrator.

Duties:

1. The Licensed Practical Nurse shall provide assigned nursing care under the direction of a Registered Nurse who provides on-site supervision as needed, based upon the severity of patient’s medical condition and the nurse’s training experience.
2. The Licensed Practical Nurse shall:
   • Prepare and record clinical notes for the clinical records
   • Report any changes in the patient’s condition to the case manager/registered nurse with the reports documented in the clinical record
   • Perform assigned tasks, including the Administration of treatment and medications, in the care of the patient within the scope of practice authorized by the license issued by the State for a licensed practical nurse.
3. Weekly reviews the utilization and progress of the patient with the RN, supervisor and attending  physician as necessary.
4. Has knowledge of patient’s condition at all times and informs the physician, physician assistant, or advanced registered nurse practitioner, RN and/or the Nursing Supervisor immediately of any change in the patient’s condition that warrants attention. Also observes, evaluates, and reports to the physician the patient’s reaction to drugs or treatments.
5. Interprets to the patient and family the expectations of the diagnosis and the nature of the treatment consistent with the action and wishes of the physician. Interprets to the social and physical factors in the environment that affect patient care, by Registered Nurse supervision.
6. Is responsible for the execution of the physician’s orders, supervised by a Registered Nurse, and keeps the physician informed of all pertinent information concerning the patient’s condition and response to treatment. Gives skills of care to patients.
7. Other duties assigned by the registered nurse. Ensure HIPAA guidelines and procedures are maintained. Participate in in-services program, and discharge planning under registered nurse supervision.

Physical Requirements:

1. Able to speak, read and write English
2. Able to read assignments, follow directions.
3. Able to communicate and respond clearly on telephone and respond to patient’s spoken needs.
4. The ability to physically transfer, lift or assist patients whose average weight is 160 pounds with or without the aid of mechanical devices.
5. Able to spend 80% of the work shift standing and/or moving about.
6. Able to walk, climb stairs, stoop, twist, bend, and squat to perform essential job functions.

This Job Classification will have a Potential risk for Occupational Exposure to Blood and other Potential Infections and body fluids, protective equipment will be provided by our Agency to limit the exposure and will promote self-protection practices in the delivery of Home Health Care, to provide appropriate treatment to home health care workers in the event of exposure incident and to promote compliance with the universal precautions.

Mental Requirements:

1. Able to concentrate on detail with frequent interruptions.
2. Able to follow, complete and remember daily routines and requirements.
3. Able to comprehend and utilize professional education materials.
4. Able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position