Under the direct supervision of a professional nurse, provides direct patient care for an assigned group of patients and follows through on the directions of the physician and professional nurse in caring for the rehabilitation patient. This care is provided in accordance with state and departmental policies for practical nursing in Maryland.

Principal Responsibilities and Tasks

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified.

1. Provides direct nursing care to patients whose conditions require non-complex nursing measures, such as, monitoring vital signs, obtaining specimens for laboratory examinations and carrying out physician's orders for medications and routine treatments, in accordance with state of Maryland practical nursing practice.
2. Observes, records, and reports the general physical and mental conditions of patients, to the physician or professional nurse in charge in accordance with department documentation and reporting procedures/standards.
   • Utilizes interview and observation skills to identify symptoms and behavioral changes that indicate common health problems or basic physical, emotional, and social needs of a patient or family.
   • Documents data collected and reports changes in the patient's condition that may indicate an emerging health problem.
3. Observes, records, and reports specific signs and symptoms which may be indicative of change in accordance with departmental documentation and reporting procedures/standards.
   • Assists in nursing diagnosis by documenting and communicating to the RN patient responses to illness or nursing intervention.
4. Identifies the physical needs of the patient and performs the necessary intervention measures in solving a semi-complex nursing situation in accordance with department protocols.
   • Assists in the formulation of the care plan by communicating pertinent patient data and/or suggesting nursing interventions to the RN/Primary Nurse.
   • Contributes to the evaluation of the nursing care plan through documentation and communication of patient responses to illness and nursing interventions.
5. Prepares patient progress reports and daily reports in accordance with departmental reporting standards as required.
   • Documents in an appropriate, accurate, and timely manner in the patient record.
6. Demonstrates the ability to implement a plan of care (in accordance with performance standards) in a knowledgeable, skillful, and consistent manner.
7. Assists in providing continuity of care for a Primary Nurses' patients.
   • Modifies or structures the environment to promote patient safety, adequate rest and recreation, as needed.
8. Demonstrates an awareness and sensitivity to uphold the institution's standard operating procedure for patients' rights.
9. Assists the interdisciplinary team in formulating, implementing, and evaluating the rehabilitation plan of care.
10. Assists in developing, reviewing, and monitoring nursing quality assurance standards, as requested.
11. Provides input into unit problem-solving and decision-making by participating in unit staff meetings. Assists with unit shift management responsibilities, as assigned. Demonstrates appropriate delegation of tasks and duties to unlicensed personnel.
12. Participates in nursing/hospital research activities, as requested.
13. Attends and participates in in-service training and educational programs for ongoing growth and development. Identifies self-learning needs and assumes responsibility for continuing education.
    • Contributes to the education of new nursing personnel, as assigned.

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Education and Experience

1. Graduation from a Practical Nursing Education Program approved by the State of Maryland is required.
2. Current licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse by the Maryland State Board of Examiners of Nurses is required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

1. Proficient knowledge of anatomy and physiology.
2. Ability to demonstrate positive guest relations skills.
3. Highly effective communication skills are necessary in explaining procedures to patients, preparing written reports for patient medical charts, and providing preliminary results to health care providers.
4. Ability to demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the patient populations(s) served. Ability to demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and ability to assess data reflective of the patient's requirements relative to his or her population-specific and age specific needs.

Patient Safety

Ensures patient safety in the performance of job functions and through participation in hospital, department or unit patient safety initiatives.

1. Takes action to correct observed risks to patient safety.
2. Reports adverse events and near misses to appropriate management authority.
3. Identifies possible risks in processes, procedures, devices and communicates the same to those in charge.

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