JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

The Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse is responsible for providing direct patient care under the supervision of the palliative care registered nurse. Responsibilities include following the interdisciplinary plan of care, providing treatments, and working collaboratively with the members of the team to help meet patient palliative care outcomes.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Provides direct patient care as defined in State Nurse Practice Act.

2. Implements current nursing practice following a comprehensive assessment and the plan of care.

3. Provide accurate and timely documentation of patient services to reflect the plan of care.

4. Assess and provide patient and family/caregiver education and information pertinent to diagnosis and self-plan of care.

5. Participates in coordination of palliative care services, appropriately reporting the identified needs to the interdisciplinary group.

6. Uses equipment and supplies effectively and efficiently.

7. Provides appropriate pain/symptom management. Evaluates patient's response to treatments/medications.

8. Participates in personal, professional growth and development. Also participates in quality assessment performance improvement teams and activities.

9. Performs other duties as assigned by the palliative care registered nurse.

The above statements are intended to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job. The incumbents may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

1. Graduate of an accredited practical nurse or vocational nursing program.

2. Three years nursing experience. Community health/hospice or medical/surgical and

palliative care experience is preferred. Pediatrics: Must have experience and/or training in the developmental stages and needs of infants, children and adolescents.

3. Currently licensed as an LPN/LVN in the State.

4. Complies with accepted professional standards and practice.

5. Demonstrates good verbal and written communication, and organization skills.

6. Must be a licensed driver with an automobile that is insured in accordance with state and/or organization requirements and is in good working order.

7. Excellent observation, verbal and written communication skill, problem solving skills, mathematical skills; nursing skills per competency checklist.

8. Prolonged or considerable walking or standing. Able to lift, position and/or transfer patients. Able to lift supplies and equipment. Considerable reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling and/or crouching. Visual acuity and hearing to perform required nursing skills.

9. Possesses and maintains current CPR certification as required by organizational policy.

10. Understands philosophy of palliative. Also understands needs of the terminally ill.

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