Position Summary

The Licensed Practical Nurse is a professional who demonstrates a commitment to the management of the dually diagnosed client. The Licensed Practical Nurse in collaboration with the Registered Nurse, plans for, implements, and evaluates nursing care provided to a select group of patients ranging in age from young adults to geriatrics, and their families within the context of organizational and nursing department philosophy and goals. He/she is expected to apply hospital and nursing service policies and procedures when rendering nursing care and providing health teaching to patients and families.

Recognizing that nursing care is one portion of health care, the Licensed Practical Nurse is expected to interact with staff, physicians, and other departments in a collegial relationship in order to meet patient and family needs.

Qualifications

1. Graduate from an NLN accredited school of practical nursing.
2. One year of nursing practice is preferred.
3. Psychiatric or addiction nursing experience desired.
4. Current Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Practical Nurse licensure.
5. Successful completion of The Be Well Center orientation and hospital required certification.
6. Bi-lingual capabilities (English/Spanish) are desired.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES 

Must possess current working knowledge of: Behavioral health nursing theory, principles, and practices; Infection Control standards; Medications, therapies, and treatments used in behavioral medicine; and Electronic Health Records. Must have strong interpersonal skills and solid organizational, coaching, and leadership skills – as well as solid computer skills. Must demonstrate the ability to: Provide the full range of nursing care to patients/residents; provide effective nursing care; Lead unit staff; Communicate effectively in both written and verbal form; Prepare and maintain written and electronic records, reports, and correspondence; Remain calm during stressful situations; maintain confidentiality.

Responsibility and Accountability

1. Practices psychiatric nursing under the direction of the professional nurse in the context of the mission statements, philosophies and goals of the Nursing Department, The Be Well Center, and his/her assigned units.
2. Provides quality basic level medical surgical nursing care to patients and their families under the direction of the professional nurse.
   1. Implements The Be Well Center and Nursing policies and procedures.
   2. Supervises and directs unit mental health workers.
   3. Assumes the charge role when designated.
   4. Participates in Performance Improvement and Quality Improvement activities.
      1. Performs all duties in a cost-effective manner by judiciously using supplies and safeguarding of equipment.
         1. Acquires and maintains current knowledge of medical Vs surgical nursing practice.
         2. Interacts with a multidisciplinary team in a collegial manner.
         3. Takes responsibility for personal and educational growth and development.
         4. Reports to the Nurse Manager.

Physical Demands, ADA Requirements, and Working Conditions

Must be able to speak and hear sufficient enough to communicate effectively by phone and or in person at normal volumes. Manual dexterity is required to take notes and simultaneously document pertinent information. Vision should be adequate enough to allow for focus adjustment to read charts, computer screens, forms, etc. Significant time may be spent on the computer entering information which requires attention to detail and accuracy. Will be required to stand, walk and have close contact with others. Lifting, maneuvering, and transporting of materials will be required from time to time. May be required to participate in physical restraints.