LPN - Behavioral Health Services (32 hours/week)

Job Summary

The Licensed Practical Nurse functions under the direct supervision of the Department Director or Registered Nurse. Responsible for giving direct and indirect patient care within the area of assignment pursuant to established standards of nursing care of MemorialHospital and HealthCareCenter. Demonstrates knowledge of developmental needs of patient population specific to that department. (Patient population is defined in each department's Scope of Practice.)

Qualifications

Education:
Graduate of an accredited School of Practical Nursing preferred. Current Indiana licensure required. *The following is applicable for LPN's hired after January 1, 2004. The LPN must be enrolled and accepted into an associate or baccalaureate nursing program upon hire to the Medical Services Department. Completion of the enrolled program and licensure as a registered nurse in the state of Indiana must be completed within 24 months from hire date or change of status date. Non-adherence to this requirement will result in immediate termination of employment. To avoid termination, the LPN may apply for a transfer to an open position, if available, in another department within the Hospital system. Therefore, a position within the Hospital, will not be guaranteed.

Training:
Individualized preceptor training four to eight weeks. May be more or less at discretion of Director. Successful completion of orientation skills checklist. IV therapy course recommended. CPR Provider-C required within 30 days of hire. ACLS required within one year of hire.

Experience:
None required. Previous experience as a Licensed Practical Nurse in a health care facility preferred.

Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Must have comprehensive knowledge of general nursing theory and practice with more advanced skills as experience permits. Familiarity with organization, functions, policies and procedures of Hospital as they relate to Patient Services. Completion of basic skills checklist within 60 days. Knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and complications of the adult medical patient. Knowledge of nursing theory and practice. Provides nursing care to promote a positive and safe hospitalization. Provides care to the adult medical patient according to the Standards of Care. Provides patient and family with education of disease processes, modalities of treatments, and other needs exhibited by the patient and family members. Competency validation is completed by the Department Director or designee on an individual basis according to previous experience and abilities, but not to exceed six months from orientation completion. Provides education for the patient addressing the educational needs that have been identified.

Performance Requirements

Accurately collects data, assists in planning, and implements patient care. Documents and maintains accurate and complete nursing records. Assists with implementation of physician orders. Assists in teaching patients and providing staff education. Maintains a safe and clean environment. Maintains supplies in a cost effective manner. Maintains patient safety and comfort, Infection Control, and Standard Precautions.

Physical Demands:
On feet for major portion of the day. Much pulling, pushing, and lifting required. Visual, auditory, and speech acuity essential to giving nursing care and evaluating patient needs. Works in nursing department and patient rooms which are well lighted, heated, and ventilated with some exposure to disagreeable conditions. May come in contact with hazardous health conditions; however, if proper procedure is followed no harm should come to employee.

Special Demands:
Reflects the mission, philosophy, core values, and customer service plan of Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center in action and attitude. Nurses are encouraged to be actively involved in the community as leaders in health and wellness promotion and injury and disease prevention. Nursing practice reflects the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics. Willingness to work with realization that errors and incompetence may have serious consequences for patients. Competency, tact, and patience are necessary when communicating with patients, families, physicians, and other personnel. Utilizes initiative and judgment in adapting or devising techniques and procedures to meet the needs of the nursing department. Maintains confidentiality. May be required to work rotating shifts and a reasonable amount of overtime.

Experience in mental health experience preferred