What are the responsibilities and job description for the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) position at Mental Health Association - Western MA?
We are seeking a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) for our Medical Respite Program. This position supports the health and well-being of individuals requiring short-term medical stabilization by providing essential nursing care, monitoring health conditions, and collaborating with medical providers. The LPN works within a team-based model to ensure open communication, support, and accountability among co-workers while maintaining high standards of care.
Person Services
- Assists in the completion and updates of Comprehensive Assessments by providing relevant health and medical information.
- Provides input on health and medical needs to support the development and monitoring of Individual Action Plans (IAPs).
- Educates persons served about medications, including function, effects, and potential side effects.
- Monitors individuals for medication side effects and reports findings to medical providers as necessary.
- Ensures individuals receive annual physical assessments to maintain accurate medical records.
- Evaluates individuals with specific health concerns and makes appropriate medical interventions, including coordinating appointments with healthcare providers.
- Supports individuals by advocating for high-quality healthcare, including seeking second opinions when warranted.
- Coordinates medical communication among healthcare providers, visiting nurses, and program staff.
- Assists individuals in accessing and utilizing home health or visiting nurse services as ordered by a prescriber.
- Accompanies individuals to medical appointments as needed to provide advocacy and support.
Program Staff Development Services
- Ensures program and staff compliance with MAP (Medication Administration Program) regulations and conducts medication audits as part of MAP policy.
- Assists in training staff on MAP certification and medication administration procedures.
- Provides training to staff and individuals on medication effects, nutrition, chronic health conditions, and vital sign monitoring.
- Adheres to Medical Respite Program, MHA, and regulatory policies and procedures.
- Assists in developing and maintaining systems related to medical care and medication administration.
- Provides clinical support to program directors and supervisory staff as needed.
Collateral/Environmental Services
- Maintains clear and consistent communication with referral sources and external medical service providers.
- Collaborates with program staff to address special physical care needs of individuals served.
- Immediately notifies supervisory staff in the event of a medical crisis, suspected illegal activity, or any significant incident in the program.
- Serves as a liaison with external agencies to ensure continuity of care for individuals in the Medical Respite Program.
Administrative Responsibilities/Record Keeping
- Maintains medical and medication records in compliance with agency and regulatory standards, including physical assessments and progress documentation.
- Participates in Individual Action Plan meetings when needed.
- Completes medical-related projects as assigned by program leadership.
Professional Growth and Development
- Attends required agency training and seeks external professional development opportunities.
- Participates in relevant agency and community task forces.
- Engages in self-evaluation to establish and achieve professional growth goals.
- Actively participates in individual supervision sessions.
- Understanding of behavioral health and medical needs of the population served.
- Knowledge of psychotropic medications and their effects.
- Ability to assess and address medical symptoms and treatments.
- Strong communication and training skills for educating staff and individuals about health-related topics.
- Valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and willingness to use a personal vehicle for work-related travel.
Required Education and Experience
- At least 2 years of experience working with individuals with medical or behavioral health needs.
- Active registration with the Massachusetts Board of Nursing as an LPN.
Available to full-time employees:
- Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
- Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
- Long Term Disability
