Senior Licensed Practical Nurse II, UPMC Harrisburg, IV Therapy.

Purpose:
Act as a member of the health-care team by exercising sound nursing judgment based on preparation, knowledge, experience in nursing and competency and able to provide care and IV therapy following UPMC LPN Practice Guidelines and policies, and the State Board Regulations. The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) participates in the planning, implementation and evaluation of nursing care using focused assessment in settings where nursing takes place under the direction of a Registered Nurse or other licensed UPMC provider. A senior LPN is responsible for selecting and completing 2 contributions annually that will assist in improving patient care OR must have and maintain a UPMC approved certification and also select and complete 1 contribution. The role of the Senior LPN encompasses partnership, and collaboration with the health care team and the patients and families to achieve desired patient outcomes. 

Responsibilities:

• The LPN is licensed to function as a member of the health-care team by exercising sound nursing judgment based on preparation, knowledge, experience in nursing and competency. The LPN participates in the planning, implementation and evaluation of nursing care using focused assessment in settings where nursing takes place.
• An LPN shall communicate with a licensed professional nurse and the patients' health care team members to seek guidance when, the patients care needs exceed the licensed practical nursing scope of practice. The patient's care needs surpass the LPNs knowledge, skill or ability. The patients condition deteriorates or there is a significant change in condition, the patient is not responding to therapy, the patient becomes unstable, or the patient needs immediate assistance.
• An LPN shall obtain instruction and supervision if implementing new or unfamiliar nursing practices or procedures. An LPN shall follow the written, established policies and procedures of UPMC, UPMC LPN Practice Guidelines, and the State Practice Act.
• Acts within the LPN Practice guidelines including IVs and within the framework of Relationship Based Care to create a healing environment. Formulates daily goals and a plan of care for patients that involves the patient as partner and considers the individual needs of the patient in a holistic manner.
• Communicates the patient's condition to other care providers. Patient documentation is comprehensive and promotes communication between caregivers. Incorporates national professional organization as well as business unit and health system's goals to improve patient safety, quality and satisfaction of the patient experience in daily work. Creates a caring and compassionate patient focused experience by building healing relationships with patients, families and colleagues.
• Actively participates in unit activities and willing to provide assistance to care team members. Provides detailed and appropriate teaching to patients and families to effectively guide them through the episode of care as well as transition to another level of care and/or home.
• Demonstrates a passion for developing others by supporting the orientation and developing new LPNs and patient care support staff. Regularly seeks feedback on performance and applies continuous professional improvement.
• Supports continuous learning in the clinical areas by participating in organizational and system programs. Identifies opportunities for clinical quality as well as workplace improvement.
• Participates in the development, revision and implementation of policies and procedures designed to insure comfort and safety of patients in collaboration with other health care personnel. Seeks and participates in opportunities to assist in identification process improvement opportunities to improve patient care.
• Develops and maintains productive working relationships internally and externally by demonstrating accountability for actions, enthusiasm, motivation and commitment to patients and colleagues.
• Demonstrates an understanding of cultural differences and holds peers accountable for healthy relationships. Maintains a conscious balance between work and personal life. Models safe work hours, time management and healthy lifestyle. Communicates with peers and management any safety hazards identified in the workplace.