LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE/LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSE

Description

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is a licensed nurse who provides competent, compassionate nursing care to patients and families under the direct guidance and supervision of a physician and Nurse Manager.

The LPN works with physicians and other staff members to ensure a quality-based, customer-oriented flow of work throughout the ambulatory practice while also serving as a resource person for clinical / clerical support staff.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :

Provides physical care and emotional support to patients and families under direct supervision of the Nurse Manager and Medical Director.

Participates in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of nursing care and treatment plans; observes, reports and records pertinent patient information into electronic health record system in accordance with Dermatology Service protocols;

identifies patient care needs and utilizes nursing resources appropriately.

Supports and reinforces patient teaching plan, educates patients about proper use of medications.

Provides instruction to patients about wound care.

Administers medications within parameters defined by Dermatology Service after successful orientation; performs nursing procedures within the parameters defined by the Dermatology Service.

Photographs patients with various skin conditions using a variety of photographic procedures, techniques and equipment

Participates in Quality Assurance activities; supports peers and colleagues in maintaining established standards of care.

Identifies patient care needs and utilizes nursing resources appropriately.

Triaging of patient urgent clinical calls which may result in scheduling patient appointments, as well as Telehealth appointments.

Informs patients of pathology, lab results and plan of care.

Utilizes In -Basket messages to monitor all biopsies and ensures that all necessary therapies are administered as scheduled by the physician.

Provide clinical nursing coverage across the Medical Dermatology specialty services.

Obtain prior authorizations for medications as needed.

Participates in developing and implementing new ideas in nursing practice; participates in daily activities conducive to the comfort and safety of patients, visitors and staff.

Appropriately utilizes and conserves equipment and supplies.

Orders medical supplies and maintains appropriate inventories.

Provides input to the Nurse Manager regarding perceived unit needs.

Participates in unit and service committees.

Ensures that the physical environment is maintained.

Establishes and enforces annual fire and safety regulations for the practice, following established protocols, and ensuring compliance with the Joint Commission, OSHA, and Hospital guidelines.

Troubleshoots routine / non-routine problems and takes measures to correct / handle issue.

The individual in this position must demonstrate appropriate knowledge of the principals of growth and development over the life span of the patient.

In addition, he / she must possess the ability to assess patient data relative to age specific needs and provide care as described in the department's policies and procedures.

Considers feedback from patients, families, and visitors and provides to Nurse Manager for practice improvement.

SKILLS / ABILITIES / COMPETENCIES REQUIRED :

Maintains and updates clinical knowledge and skills.

Participates in relevant continuing education programs.

Attends Nurses Association meetings.

Knowledge of and dedication to the highest patient care and provide the utmost service excellence to all patients.

Ability to take initiative and to exercise independent judgment, decision-making and problem-solving expertise.

A can-do, team oriented attitude is essential, as the ability to work independently and to interact easily with physicians, other managers and staff throughout the department and hospital.

Effective interpersonal / communication, organizational, and the flexibility to handle multiple tasks.

Administration of injections

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, and / or REGISTRATIONS (if applicable) :

Current state licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse required

BLS certification required

EDUCATION :

Graduate of an approved LPN program required

EXPERIENCE :

LPN experience 1+ years

EMR : PointClick Care

Certification : Basic Life Support