Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Position Overview:
The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) provides compassionate and competent nursing care across various locations in Virginia. The LPN supports individuals with IDD by promoting their health and well-being through direct care, health monitoring, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals and support staff. This role ensures compliance with federal, state/provincial, and local laws, standards, and AccessStar policies to promote the highest degree of quality care and services.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Direct Patient Care:

   • Administer medications and treatments according to prescribed guidelines and in adherence with the Six Rights of Medication Pass (Right resident, medication, dosage, time, route, and right to refuse).
   • Monitor and document patient health status, including vital signs, symptoms, and changes in condition.
   • Assist with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and feeding as needed.
   • Provide wound care, catheter care, and other skilled nursing tasks as required.

2. Health Monitoring and Documentation:

   • Maintain accurate and detailed patient records, including medication administration records, treatment plans, and progress notes.
   • Ensure compliance with health and safety standards and regulatory requirements.
   • Document medication administration accurately, including initialing records and documenting refusals or missed doses.
   • Conduct thorough assessments to determine the need for "as needed" medications and appropriately document and report findings to supervisors.
   • Ensure the confidentiality of all individual information, including medication details.

3. Collaboration and Communication:

   • Work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams, including physicians, RNs, direct support professionals (DSPs), and therapists.
   • Participate in care planning meetings and provide input on patient care needs and goals.
   • Report individual concerns observed during medication administration to the Nursing Manager.
   • Assist with checking medications regardless of packaging system.
   • Count narcotics with another staff member each shift.
   • Participate in daily meetings and actively contribute to Service and Health Updates as directed by the Nursing Manager.
   • Collaborate in the development and monthly updates of Individualized Service Plans (ISP)/Individualized Care Plans (ICP).

4. Health Promotion and Advocacy:

   • Advocate for the health and well-being of individuals with IDD.
   • Encourage and support individuals in achieving their personal health goals.
   • Promote healthy lifestyle choices and disease prevention strategies.

5. Training and Support:

   • Provide training and guidance to DSPs and other staff members on healthcare-related tasks and protocols.
   • Assist in developing and implementing health education programs for individuals with IDD and their families.
   • Support the implementation of individualized care plans and interventions.

6. Safety and Compliance:

   • Promote and adhere to safety rules and regulations, including proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and compliance with infection control techniques.
   • Report all accidents, incidents, unsafe/hazardous conditions, and equipment issues immediately.
   • Ensure the safe storage of oxygen tanks and monitor oxygen levels for prescribed accuracy.
   • Maintain medication rooms/totes/boxes for cleanliness, organization, and compliance with safety and expiration guidelines.
   • Transcribe orders and ensure community compliance with OSHA Occupational Health and Safety Regulation requirements.

7. Supervision and Meetings:

   • Serve as shift supervisor and may supervise other DSPs.
   • Attend regular meetings and training sessions as directed by supervisors and neighborhood coordinators.

8. Additional Responsibilities:

   • Maintain compliance with all required training and certifications as applicable to the role to ensure AccessStar standards are met.
   • Perform all other duties as assigned by Supervisor.

Qualifications:

• Valid LPN license in the state of Virginia.
• Experience in administering medications and treatments, preferably in a setting with individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).
• Strong clinical assessment, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong documentation and assessment skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and uphold professional standards of care.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and contribute to team goals.
• Commitment to promoting the dignity and independence of residents.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and infection control techniques.