Licensed Practical Nurse

DUTIES 

Provides skilled nursing care under the direct supervision of the Registered Nurse.

Performs selected skilled actions in the provision of curative, rehabilitative, palliative or preventative nursing care.

Is responsible and accountable for making decisions that are based on the individual's nursing experience and educational preparation.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Assists the Registered Nurse in carrying out the plan of care.

Assists the Registered Nurse in performing specialized procedures as directed by the Registered Nurse under physician's orders.

Assists with the preparation, implementation and continuing evaluation of the patient care plan.

Recognizes and understands the effects of social and economic problems upon patients and provides for the emotional and physical comfort and safety of patients.

Helps teach the patient the appropriate self-care techniques.

Fosters cooperative effort among personnel by understanding the functions of other persons involved in patient care and by active participation in team and staff conferences.

Assumes responsibility for personal and vocational growth and development through active participation in nursing organizations and participating in in-service programs and other on the job learning.

Prepares clinical and progress notes (not to include admission).

Observes, records, and reports to the appropriate person patient  symptoms, reactions and changes including:

• The general physical and mental condition of patients and signs and symptoms which may be indicative of untoward changes.

• Stresses in human relationships between the patients and staff personnel and between patients and their families and visitors.

Observes records and reports to the appropriate person the general physical and mental condition of patients and signs and symptoms which may be indicative of changes in condition.

Assists with the rehabilitation of patients according to the medical care plan by encouraging the interests and special aptitudes of the patient and encouraging patients to help themselves using their own capabilities.

Further assist in rehabilitation by reporting any abnormality in the patient’s range of motion, body mechanics or body alignment. 

Actively participates in nursing organizations and promotes and participates in in-service programs.

TREATMENTS AND PROCEDURES

The Licensed Practical Nurse with the education and proven clinical competence may perform certain treatments/procedures provided the Home Health Agency’s policies and the State’s Regulatory Acts allow their performance. 

JOB CONDITIONS

The ability to communicate well, both verbally and in writing in English is required.

The ability to access patients’ homes which may not be routinely wheelchair accessible is required.

Hearing, eyesight and physical dexterity must be sufficient to perform a physical assessment of the patient's condition and to perform patient care.

Physical activities will include, walking, sitting, stooping, and standing and minimal to maximum lifting of patients and the turning of patients.

EQUIPMENT OPERATION

Utilization of calculator, multi-line telephone, copy machine, basic medical equipment.

COMPANY INFORMATION

Has access to all patient medical records, personnel records and patient financial accounts which may be discussed with the Executive Director, Director of Reimbursement, Employee Relations and Quality Assurance department staff.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Graduation from an accredited School of Practical Nursing.

1. Must be licensed in Pennsylvania as a Licensed Practical Nurse 

1. One or more years’ experience in home health agency or in a hospital setting, Home health experience preferred.

1. Must have a criminal background check.

1. Must have a current CPR certification. Online certification is not accepted.