Licensed Practical Nurse I - Central and Western Region - Full and Part Time Positions - Continuous Posting

Description

This is an open and continuous posting for full-time and part-time positions on multiple shifts throughout the Western MA Area of the Central / Western Region of DDS.

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) seeks compassionate nursing professionals to apply for our LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE I (LPN I) positions.

This is an excellent entry level nursing opportunity for potential candidates who are interested in furthering their career and broadening their nursing experience to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The LPN I is the first level in the series and candidates will deliver care to our individuals living in a community residential home setting.

Our LPNs are an extremely important part of our team, developing relationships and working with, not only our individuals, but family members, significant others, provider agencies and other appropriate parties in order to improve the overall health / quality of living for those supported by the agency.

Please Note : Based on assignment, candidates may be eligible for various pay differentials.

For more information on the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) go to :

To visit the DDS Career Page, please visit :

Licensed Practical Nurse I POSITIONS AVAILABLE IN THE FOLLOWING

CITIES & TOWNS :

Agawam Amherst Athol Baldwinville Barre Belchertown Bellingham Charlton Clinton East Longmeadow Easthampton Feeding Hills Gardner Granby Greenfield Hadley Hampden Hatfield Holden Hubbardston Lee Milford Monson North Brookfield Orange Palmer Phillipston Shrewsbury South Barre South Hadley Southampton Southbridge Springfield Stockbridge Sturbridge Templeton Uxbridge Ware Warren Webster West Springfield Westfield Westhampton Whately Wilbraham Worcester

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive) :

• Provide exceptional nursing care and oversight by implementing the individuals' health care plan including charting vital signs, application of medical / surgical dressings, and administering medications as prescribed and directed by the primary / specialty physician
• Assist with daily maintenance, personal care and other services of support as outlined in the Individual Service Plan (ISP);

Maintain individual records and files

Initiate referrals for needed medical services including scheduling, hospital safeguarding, advocacy and other follow-up care;

Engage in referral for supportive and health-related protections

• Communicate health issues to staff and update the individuals' families / guardians in matters including hospitalizations, rehabilitation support such as physical / occupational therapy
• Inform staff of any medical concerns related to activity level that may hinder and individual's progress
• Order medications and maintain medical supplies, materials and equipment
• Initiate emergency medical procedures by applying basic first aid techniques and / or CPR and tracheotomy care, and catheterizations;
• Provide training for direct support staff on use of equipment and treatments
• Transport individuals to work, medical appointments, recreational activities and other community engagements as needed

Position Requirements :

Must possess a current, active license to practice as an LPN in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Agency Requirements :

• Must possess a current and valid Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License
• Incumbents must obtain and maintain Health Care Provider Basic Life Support (BLS) certification

Preferred Qualifications :

• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain a respectful, caring, tolerant, ethical, and empowering relationship with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities;
• Capacity to assist / lift individuals with physical disabilities and / or limited mobility;
• Knowledge of standard nursing policies, procedures, methods and techniques;
• Capacity to maintain accurate records and exercise discretion in handling confidential information;
• Familiarity with safety practices and medical terminology / abbreviations;
• Aptitude to transcribe, read and comprehend the English language

Please Note :

Depending on assignment, some LPN positions may be assigned to locations that require 24 / 7 nursing staff. The Department of Developmental Services requires employees in these positions to be able to perform mandatory overtime when circumstances dictate the need.

This position is designated as an "EMERGENCY" position in the Department of Developmental Services Emergency Plan. This means that whenever the Governor declares that the Commonwealth is in a state of emergency, you will be required to report to work.

All employees are paid on a bi-weekly basis and must have direct deposit.

About the Department of Developmental Services :

The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members.

DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports.

The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.

For more information about our agency and programs visit :