| The Licensed Practical Nurse is located at the Fort Meade Community Living Center. The incumbent within this organization functions as a nursing team member under the direction and guidance of the Registered Nurse (RN) or Provider. He/she is responsible for delivering safe physical and emotional care to Veterans, in a variety of settings, while enhancing technical skills and nursing knowledge. Major duties include, but are not limited to: Patient Care/Training/Education Uses sound clinical judgment, has ability to vary the order and sequence of assignments based on patients' conditions. Utilizes knowledge of physical, social, and emotional factors when planning patient care, and uses this knowledge effectively in day-to-day interactions with patients and families. Recognizes deviations from patient's baseline. Demonstrates ability to respond to patient's immediate and long-term needs. Prepares and administers medications correctly and understands the action and side effects of all medications administered. Observes for physical and/or emotional changes in patient's condition from prescribed medications/treatments, promptly and accurately documenting noted changes, and reporting any deviations from normal to RN or MD/DO. Performs complex treatments and procedures with exceptional skill and knowledge, to include venipuncture as defined in policy. Applies knowledge of Medical Center Policies and Procedures to his/her daily clinical functions and responsibilities. Age differences -delivers nursing care that reflects the various phases of the life cycle from 18 to 85 years and over. Distinguishes individual age need differences, considers maturation changes, promotes health in all phases, differentiates the need for special equipment, and considers the young adults and older adults' exposure to substance abuse problems. Participates in Interdisciplinary Team meetings to develop the patients' care plan goals. Documents patient's responses to interdisciplinary plans for, group care, group therapy, patient teaching and planned activities. Performs escort duties based upon the care needs of the veteran. Assists in the performance of diagnostic procedures and treatments. After competency, may administer standard Intravenous solution via PICC line as defined in policy. After competency, may perform central line dressing changes as defined in policy. After competency, may perform heparin or saline flushes in peripheral lines and PICC lines as defined in policy. Patient Safety Applies knowledge of effective verbal interactions and preventative tactics, such as the use of the least restrictive environment, when confronted by aggressive or potentially assaultive patients. Knowledge of physical, social, and emotional factors when planning patient care, and uses this knowledge appropriately to respond to Code Blue emergencies. Recognizes and initiates life saving measures appropriately in the absence of other members of the Healthcare Team. Participates in the planning and/or implementation of various codes and emergency management procedures. Uses safe techniques when giving patient care and handling equipment, using standard precautions and personal/patient protective equipment. Recognizes and reports unsafe situations. Initiates appropriate emergency interventions. Assesses acute and subtle changes and consistency in patients' mental and physical condition and intervenes appropriately. Adjusts assignments or prioritizes care based on his/her assessment of the overall workload of the team assignment and patient care needs Recognizes and reports signs of physical and emotional abuse of patient, family and significant others. Stewardship Conducts group meetings to help patients share feelings, improve socialization skills and enhance their self-esteem. Applies knowledge of human behavior and the various degrees of physical and mental impairment, is able to modify patient/family teaching methods. Assists the professional nurse in planning and implementation of patient educational or recreational activities. Motivates patients to participate in learning and recreational activities to improve their quality of life. Customer Service Recognizes patient care management difficulties or problems and makes suggestions for change. Communicates with patients and families in a calming, reassuring, and supportive manner. Assesses the need for and provides emotional support to the dying patient and family. Observes patient while on the unit and more frequently as directed in accordance with facility policies. Maintains courtesy during telephone and direct verbal interactions with patients, families, and visitors. Environmental Safety Compliance Maintains a safe work environment and adheres to Safety and Infection Control Guidelines. Utilizes proper body mechanics, encourages others to do so, and includes information regarding prevention of injury during unit In-service and Patient Care Conferences. Responds promptly and effectively to Fire and Disaster Drills and alarms, actively assisting others as needed. Preferred Experience: Prefer Hospice, rehab, and geriatric experience Work Schedule: Rotating shifts to include evenings, nights, holidays, and weekends. 8 and 12 hour shifts available. Financial Disclosure Report: Not required |
