What are the responsibilities and job description for the Licensed Practical Nurse position at Arrowhead Post Acute?
Position: Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN)
Department: Nursing
Reports To: Director of Nursing (DON)
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
General Purpose
The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) provides direct nursing care to residents in accordance with standards of nursing practice, physician orders, and regulatory requirements. Under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or physician, the LPN/LVN is responsible for observing residents, administering medications and treatments, and supporting the delivery of safe, timely, and compassionate resident-centered care in a skilled nursing setting.
Responsibilities
Resident Care
- Administer medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians and in accordance with facility policies and procedures.
- Observe residents for changes in condition and promptly report findings to the RN or physician.
- Assist with the admission, discharge, and transfer of residents, including required documentation.
- Perform wound care, catheter care, and other clinical procedures within the LPN/LVN scope of practice.
- Provide routine nursing care to support residents’ comfort, safety, and well-being.
- Document all care provided and resident observations accurately and in a timely manner using electronic or paper medical records.
Collaboration & Communication
- Communicate effectively with residents, families, physicians, and interdisciplinary team members.
- Participate in care planning meetings and contribute to the development and implementation of individualized care plans.
- Provide direction and supervision to Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) as assigned.
- Ensure clear and accurate shift-to-shift communication through documentation and verbal reporting.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow infection prevention and control practices, safety protocols, and facility policies at all times.
- Comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including HIPAA, OSHA, and CMS guidelines.
- Participate in quality assurance and performance improvement (QAPI) activities and audits.
- Report incidents, injuries, and safety concerns according to facility policy.
Resident Support & Advocacy
- Promote and protect resident rights while providing care with dignity, respect, and confidentiality.
- Respond promptly and professionally to resident and family concerns, escalating issues as appropriate.
- Support residents’ physical, emotional, and social well-being through compassionate, person-centered care.
Qualifications
- Current, active Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) license in the state of employment (required).
- Graduate of an accredited practical/vocational nursing program.
- Prior experience in a skilled nursing or long-term care setting preferred.
- New graduates considered, with appropriate orientation and training.
- Strong clinical skills within the LPN/LVN scope of practice.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with residents, families, and interdisciplinary team members.
- Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively.
- Basic computer skills and familiarity with electronic medical records.
- Regular and reliable attendance is required to perform the essential functions of this position.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and move throughout the facility for extended periods.
- Ability to lift, push, pull, or assist with moving residents and equipment (up to 50 pounds, with or without assistance).
- Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to observe residents and read medical documentation.
- Manual dexterity required for medication administration, treatments, and equipment use.
- Ability to respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.
- Direct or indirect exposure to residents with medical conditions or communicable illnesses.
- Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to infection-control protocols.
- Work performed in a healthcare or long-term care environment.
Disclaimer
Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.