The Licensed Practical Nurse will support the physician(s), and other providers in delivering quality health care to ambulatory patients and perform a variety of nursing related tasks to promote continuity of care.

Major Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the RN, participates in the planning of nursing care and documents plan according to policy and procedure.

• Participates in developing individualized patient plan of care, prioritizing, and organizing patient care, and ensuring follow-through with planned care.
• Involves patient/family in the plan of care.
• Collaborates with other members of the health care team for the purpose of coordinating direct patient care efforts and/or operating as the patient’s advocate.

Under the supervision of the RN, provides nursing care for patients and documents according to policy and procedure.

•  Utilizes available resources for the purpose of providing nursing care for both the patient and family.
• Provides care in a timely manner anticipating needs and communication the plan from caregiver to caregiver to assure continuity.
• Selects appropriate psychosocial interventions based on age and developmental status.
• Utilizes established pathways, algorithms, and guidelines in delivering patient care.
• Participates in the implementation of patients’ educational plan based on the RN’s assessment.
• Follows policies and procedures for documentation using manual and on-line information systems.

Under the supervision of the RN, participates in the admission, transfer, and discharge process of all patients.

•  Participates in implementing established patient/family education plan.
• Completes necessary communication processes to facilitate admission, transfer, or discharge as appropriate.
• Communicates with RN those changes in patient status that may impact the care of the patient.

Under the supervision of the RN, participates in the evaluation and revision of the plan of care as needed, documents revisions according to policy and procedure.

• Consistently communicates with RN to modify the plan of care to reflect changing patient outcomes and needs.
• Evaluates environmental safety and provides an environment that is safe based on age and developmental status.

Performs tasks while maintaining integrity of patient care standards and efficient unit operations

•  Participates in quality/process improvement initiatives.
• Contributes to effective operation of the unit.
• Demonstrates ability to respond to emergency situations.
• Identifies and reports potential or actual safety issues.
• Practices within the policies and procedures of infection control by demonstrating knowledge in sterile and aseptic procedures, proper disposal of contaminated materials, and utilizing proper personal protective equipment with patients in isolation.
• Uses organizational skills to effectively complete assignments in timely manner.
• Meets regulatory and mandatory requirements on the unit.
• Maintains confidentiality and appropriate business conduct.
• Provides care while respecting the rights of patients and their families.
• Assumes responsibility for continued growth and education to reflect knowledge and understanding of current nursing care practice.

Licensure:

•  Nurse, Licensed Practical (LPN)

Education/Experience Required:

• Graduate from an accredited practical nursing program.
• Previous nursing experience is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

• Clinically appropriate skills.
• Ability to cooperate and work well with internal/external customers. Good communication skills.
• Current licensure in the State of Illinois as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:

• Ability to demonstrate a commitment to patient-focused care.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with established time constraints and in difficult situations.
• May be exposed to hazardous materials and life-threatening diseases.
• Ability to perform lifting/transfer activities related to patients (up to 50 lbs. may be required).
• Ability to work designated shifts, including weekends and holidays.
• Ability to transport objects from one location to another. *This position needs to recognize needs and behaviors of a variety of age groups of patients treated.
• If position has direct patient care or direct patient contact the following lifting requirement supersedes any previous lifting requirement effective 06/01/2015.
• Ability to lift to 35 pounds without assistance. For patient lifts of over 35 pounds, or when patient is unable to assist with the lift, patient handling equipment is expected to be used, with at least one other associate, when available. Unique patient lifting/movement situations will be assessed on a case-by-case basis

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.