Health - Licensed Practical Nurse

Job Description

Job Description

Responsible for providing outpatient ambulatory and home nursing services to eligible individuals and promoting continuity of care. The position is responsible for coordinating services, patient education, and preventive health maintenance services for clinic patients. Works closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive the best possible care by established standards and regulations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (includes, but is not limited to, the following)

· Provides basic medical care, including administering medications, injections, and vital signs.

· Assists in the examination, treatment, and follow-up of patients, under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians.

· Observes patient health and record any changes in condition, reporting as necessary to the healthcare team.

· Performs routine laboratory tests and therapeutic services.

· Educates patients and their families on health maintenance and disease prevention.

· Facilitates communication between patients, family members, and the healthcare team to ensure effective care delivery.

· Maintains patient records, ensuring they are updated and accurate.

· Ensures that all healthcare practices comply with regulatory standards.

· Participates in health promotions and community health education as required.

· Assists with patient reception and scheduling duties as needed.

· Provides and documents direct patient care within the assigned workload.

· Assists in writing and implementing policies and procedures for the Nursing and Health

Division.

· Ensures the safety and well-being of clients.

· Prepares patients and equipment required for appointments and assists providers as needed.

· Identifies patients who require attention and collaborates with the medical team in arranging for appropriate care.

· Operates, monitors, and maintains specialized equipment i.e., autoclave, surgical instruments

sterilization/packaging, and medical equipment.

· Administer PO, IM, SQ, ID, IV medications, and immunizations as ordered.

· Monitors and orders medical supplies and equipment.

· Plans and initiates nursing action based on nursing assessment and best practices.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES: (includes, but is not limited to, the following)

· Covers for staff at other clinic locations as assigned

· Promotes continuity of care, standardized patient education, and prevention services.

· Schedules work assignments for Nurses’ Aides as assigned.

· Collaborates with health care providers within and outside the Health Division.

· Completes home visits as indicated under specific program or grant requirements.

· All other job-related duties as assigned.

CONTACTS:

Immediate peers, peers in other departments, immediate supervisor/manager, managers in other departments, customers, and outside vendor/service providers.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Position medium with lifting of 50 pounds maximum and frequent lifting/carrying up to 25 pounds. Physical factors include constant use of hearing, smell, near/midrange/far vision, depth perception, color/field of vision, typing; frequent standing, walking, sitting, carrying/lifting, pushing/pulling, stooping, kneeling, bending; occasional reaching, manual handling, and patient transfers. Working conditions include exposure to weather, extreme heat/cold, wet/humidity, noise, and air quality Potential hazards include constant patient contact, computer and medical equipment use; infectious exposure and exposure to needles/syringes; and exposure to electric shock and chemicals. The position must follow Universal Precautions and wear personal protective equipment as required when performing or assisting others in the performance of duties.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education: High School diploma or equivalent and graduate from a Practical Nursing Program; required.

Experience: Previous experience as an LPN, ideally in a clinic or hospital setting; preferred.

Certification/License: LPN Licensure in the State of Michigan required. Will be required to undergo and successfully pass a background check. Must maintain a good moral character standing. Will be required to complete and pass pre-employment drug testing.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: Knowledge of Nursing Theory, Skills, and Best Practice Standards required. Knowledge of Tribal organizational policies, tribal services, and tribal service areas is preferred. Knowledge of HIPPA regulations and Health Care Laws is required. Knowledge of Infection Control, Safety Regulations, and Health Care Accreditation required. Knowledge of boundaries, ethics, delegation, and Scope of Practice required. Knowledge of clinical documentation and electronic health record systems is required. Knowledge and ability to use word processing, spreadsheet, and data base software required including electronic health record charting. Must have problem-solving skills. Must be able to work under pressure and handle difficult situations. Must be able to work with minimal supervision. Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Must be able to advocate for patients. Must be able to plan, manage, and evaluate patient care (ambulatory) and handle multiple projects. Must maintain confidentiality. Native American preferred.