We are currently seeking a Licensed Practical Nurse-Entry Level or Full Performance. This position is responsible for independently performing the full range of practical nursing care and related technical work, and performs other duties as assigned.

Qualified candidates will demonstrate outstanding communication skills, while adhering to our Mission, Vision, and Values.

EDUCATION: As required to apply for a State of Hawaii license as a practical nurse. Evidence of the appropriate training (transcript or diploma) should be submitted with the application to be given credit for education. A legible photocopy will be accepted. However, Hilo Medical Center reserves the right to request an official copy.

ENTRY LEVEL: Knowledge of: the nursing process; body structure and function; principles of asepsis; universal precautions; infection control; principles of administering medications; patient preparation for prescribed treatments and procedures; data-gathering techniques; interpersonal communication skills; alternative methods of communication for patients with special needs; environmental and patient safety; patient rights; individualization of care, including religious, cultural and developmental influences; patient age groups and the developmental process characteristic of these age groups; team participation in care planning and evaluations; therapeutic and life-saving procedures; specialized equipment; maintenance of optimal body functioning and prevention of complications; principles of body mechanics and assistive devices; comfort measures; obvious signs of emotional and mental health problems; chemical dependency; adaptive and maladaptive behavior; sensory deprivation and overload; abusive and self-destructive behavior; concepts of wellness; reproduction and human sexuality; birthing and parenting; and growth and development, including dying and death. Clinic experience preferred.

FULL PERFORMANCE: In addition to the Entry Level Qualifications, experience and essential knowledge and abilities, One (1) year of progressively responsible work experience in a hospital or similar health institution as a (1) licensed practical nurse, (2) licensed vocational nurse, or (3) registered professional nurse.

Such work experience must have involved the performance of a variety of personal care, nursing care and related technical work for a caseload of patients and required and demonstrated possession of the knowledge of practical nursing principles and practices including patient age groups and the developmental process characteristic of these age groups; and the ability to apply them in providing care/treatment that is appropriate to the age, medical condition and/or developmental status of the patients served; and observe, record and report on the general and specific physical and mental conditions of the patients, and the signs and symptoms which may be indicative of significant changes in the condition of such patients.

SUBSTITUTION ALLOWED: Completion of a professional nursing curriculum from an accredited school substitutes for the experience required for the full performance level.

CERTIFICATION REQUIRED: Certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) Health Care Provider (adult, child and infant) must be obtained within (1) month of employment. Current Certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) Health Care Provider (adult, child and infant) is preferred. Please submit copy of certification with the application.

LICENSE: A current State of Hawaii license to practice as a practical nurse. Evidence of licensure is required with the application.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: Possess an understanding of multiple cultures; and keep current in the field.