What are the responsibilities and job description for the Wound Care Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Registered Nurse (RN) position at BrightStar Care Columbia?
BrightStar Care Standards
At BrightStar Care, we are committed to delivering A Higher Standard® of Home Care. Every nurse is expected to provide compassionate, ethical, and professional care while maintaining patient dignity, safety, and confidentiality. Nurses work closely with the Director of Nursing to ensure individualized care plans, exceptional clinical outcomes, and compliance with all agency policies and regulatory requirements. BrightStar Care's nurse-led model emphasizes skilled nursing services, including wound care, medication management, and ongoing patient assessments, delivered in collaboration with the client's healthcare team.
Position Summary
BrightStar Care is seeking a compassionate, skilled, and dependable Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) with wound care experience to provide high-quality, individualized nursing care to clients in their homes. The Wound Care Nurse is responsible for assessing, treating, and monitoring acute and chronic wounds while educating patients and caregivers on proper wound management to promote healing and prevent complications. This position works under the direction of the Director of Nursing and collaborates with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure the highest standard of care.
Essential Responsibilities
· Perform comprehensive nursing assessments and ongoing evaluations of wound healing.
· Assess and document wound characteristics, including size, depth, drainage, tissue type, odor, and signs of infection.
· Cleanse, debride (within scope of practice), dress, and manage wounds according to physician orders and evidence-based protocols.
· Develop, implement, and update individualized wound care plans in collaboration with the physician and Director of Nursing.
· Identify changes in patient condition and promptly communicate concerns to the physician, Director of Nursing, or appropriate healthcare provider.
· Provide education to patients, families, and caregivers regarding wound care, infection prevention, nutrition, pressure injury prevention, and disease management.
· Administer medications and treatments as ordered by the physician and within the nurse's scope of practice.
· Monitor and document vital signs, pain levels, and overall patient response to treatment.
· Maintain accurate, timely, and complete electronic clinical documentation in accordance with agency, state, federal, and Joint Commission standards.
· Coordinate care with physicians, therapists, caregivers, case managers, and other members of the interdisciplinary healthcare team.
· Ensure all infection control and OSHA standards are followed during every patient visit.
· Order or recommend wound care supplies as needed and ensure appropriate utilization of supplies.
· Participate in case conferences, quality improvement activities, and continuing education.
· Respond appropriately to emergencies and changes in patient condition.
Qualifications
Registered Nurse (RN)
· Current unrestricted Registered Nurse license in the state of practice.
· Minimum of one (1) year of nursing experience preferred.
· Home health and wound care experience preferred.
· Wound Care Certification (WCC, WOCN, CWCN, or equivalent) preferred but not required.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
· Current unrestricted Licensed Practical Nurse license in the state of practice.
· Minimum of one (1) year of nursing experience preferred.
· Home health and wound care experience preferred.
· Demonstrated competency in wound assessment and treatment.
Required Skills
· Strong clinical assessment and critical thinking skills.
· Knowledge of evidence-based wound care practices.
· Ability to recognize signs of infection and deterioration.
· Excellent communication and patient education skills.
· Compassionate bedside manner with a commitment to patient-centered care.
· Strong organizational and time management abilities.
· Proficiency with electronic medical records (EMR).
· Ability to work independently while maintaining communication with the clinical team.
Physical Requirements
· Ability to lift, transfer, and reposition patients as needed (up to 50 pounds with assistance).
· Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching.
· Ability to travel between patient homes with reliable transportation.
· Current driver's license, valid automobile insurance, and reliable vehicle.
Certifications
· Current CPR/BLS Certification.
· Current nursing license in good standing.
· Successful completion of criminal background check and drug screening.
Preferred Experience
· Home Health
· Private Duty Nursing
· Skilled Nursing
· Wound Vac (Negative Pressure Wound Therapy)
· Pressure Injuries
· Venous and Arterial Ulcers
· Diabetic Wounds
· Surgical Wounds
· Ostomy Care
· Catheter Care
· Medication Administration
· IV Therapy (RN or LPN as permitted by state law)
Working Conditions
· Travel to patient homes within the assigned service area.
· Flexible scheduling including weekdays, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
· Independent work environment with clinical support from the Director of Nursing.
Pay: $25.00 - $50.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
- Referral program
Application Question(s):
- Are you able to pass a drug screen?
Experience:
- Wound care: 1 year (Preferred)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Preferred)
- Night Shift (Preferred)
Work Location: On the road
Salary : $25 - $50