Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) – Acute Care

Summary

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) delivers skilled nursing care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse as part of an interdisciplinary team. This role involves assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating patient care while ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Essential Job Functions

• Participate in the nursing process, including assessment and evaluation of patients’ plans of care.
• Provide direct nursing care and assist with the overall care of patients as directed by a Registered Nurse or Licensed Physician.
• Contribute to the nursing care plan with input from patients, families, and the healthcare team.
• Perform patient data collection and observations tailored to the patient’s age group and condition.
• Collect and document patient care data following hospital guidelines.
• Administer medications and treatments, including wound care and other prescribed therapies, using appropriate medical equipment.
• Perform phlebotomy services as required.
• Evaluate patient responses to interventions and modify care plans as needed.
• Recognize and report significant changes in patient conditions promptly.
• Adhere to safety policies and report any potential safety issues.
• Maintain compliance with HIPAA and OSHA regulations.
• Practice infection control procedures to ensure patient safety.

Licensing/Certification Requirements

• Current Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensure from the state of employment or LPN applicant status.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association.
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification may be required for specialty areas.
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification may be required for specialty areas.
• Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) certification may be required for specialty areas.

Education

High School diploma or GED; completion of an accredited LPN program required.

Work Experience

One year of clinical patient care experience in an acute care setting, long-term care facility, or physician practice preferred.

Skills

• Monitoring patient conditions during treatment.
• Administering medications within scope.
• Communicating patient information effectively with the healthcare team.
• Documenting patient medical histories accurately.
• Demonstrating critical thinking and attention to detail.
• Exhibiting strong collaborative and teamwork abilities.
• Practicing effective conflict resolution and active listening.
• Demonstrating dependability and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

Working Conditions

• May experience periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads.
• Possible exposure to physical altercations and hazardous materials.
• May require the use of physical restraints.
• Standard healthcare environment including exposure to noise and bright lights.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs frequently, with some tasks requiring lifting up to 100 lbs.
• Capability to push/pull weights as required in patient care.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and manual dexterity are required.
• Acuity for near and far vision, depth perception, and hearing alarms and communications.

Patient Population

The LPN demonstrates the necessary skills to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served, including:

• Neonates (0-4 weeks)
• Infants (1-12 months)
• Pediatrics (1-12 years)
• Adolescents (13-17 years)
• Adults (18-64 years)
• Geriatrics (65 years and older)

This position requires a commitment to delivering compassionate and exceptional patient care. Candidates should be prepared to collaborate effectively within a healthcare team to enhance the health and well-being of the patients