What are the responsibilities and job description for the Licensed Practical Nurse - PRN position at Opelousas General Health System?
About the Role:
The Licensed Practical Nurse in our Women's Clinic plays a vital role in delivering comprehensive healthcare services to children and adolescents in underserved rural communities. This position focuses on providing direct patient care, supporting pediatric healthcare providers, and ensuring a compassionate and efficient clinical environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for performing clinical tasks such as taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with examinations and procedures tailored to pediatric patients. Additionally, they will facilitate communication between patients, families, and healthcare teams to promote health education and adherence to treatment plans. Ultimately, this role contributes significantly to improving pediatric health outcomes by delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in a rural setting.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Current and valid Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license or Medical Assistant certification recognized by the state.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Experience working in a clinical healthcare setting, preferably with pediatric patients.
- Strong understanding of pediatric healthcare principles and infection control standards.
- Ability to communicate effectively with children, families, and healthcare professionals.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous experience working in a rural health clinic or underserved community setting.
- Certification in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS).
- Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and medical billing procedures.
Responsibilities:
- Assist pediatric healthcare providers during patient examinations and procedures by preparing the exam room and necessary equipment.
- Obtain and record vital signs, medical histories, and other relevant clinical information from pediatric patients and their families.
- Administer medications and immunizations as directed by the healthcare provider, ensuring adherence to safety protocols.
- Provide patient and family education on health maintenance, disease prevention, and treatment plans tailored to pediatric needs.
- Maintain accurate and confidential patient records in compliance with healthcare regulations and clinic policies.
- Coordinate patient flow and manage appointment scheduling to optimize clinic efficiency and reduce wait times.
- Perform routine clinical tasks such as phlebotomy, specimen collection, and basic laboratory testing as required.
- Ensure the cleanliness and organization of clinical areas, adhering to infection control and safety standards.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to support comprehensive pediatric care and follow-up.
- Participate in ongoing training and professional development to stay current with pediatric healthcare best practices.
Skills:
The required skills enable the LPN/Medical Assistant to perform clinical duties such as taking vital signs, administering medications, and assisting with pediatric examinations efficiently and safely. Strong communication skills are essential for educating patients and families, ensuring they understand treatment plans and health maintenance strategies. Organizational skills help manage patient flow and maintain accurate medical records, which are critical for continuity of care. Preferred skills like proficiency with electronic health records streamline documentation and improve clinic operations.
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