Licensed Practical Nurse

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides skilled nursing care under the direct supervision of the Registered Nurse. Performs selected skilled actions in the provision of curative, rehabilitative, palliative, or preventative nursing care. Is responsible and accountable for making decisions that are based on the individual's nursing experience and educational preparation.Assists the Registered Nurse in carrying out the Plan of Care. Assists the Registered Nurse in performing specialized procedures as directed by the Registered Nurse under physician's orders. Assists with the preparation, implementation and on-going evaluation of the client care plan. Recognizes and understands the effects of social and economic problems upon clients and provides for the emotional and physical comfort and safety of clients. Helps teach the patient the appropriate self-care techniques. Fosters cooperative effort among personnel by understanding the functions of other persons involved in client care and by actively participating in nursing organizations and in-service programs and other on the job learning. Assumes responsibility for personal and vocational growth and development through active participation in nursing organizations and in-service programs and other on the job learning. Enters clinical/progress notes (not to include admission) into EMR within 24 hours of scheduled visit. Observes, records, and reports to the appropriate person the patient's symptoms, reactions and changes including the general physical and mental condition of clients and signs and symptoms that may be indicative of untoward changes. Stresses in human relationships between the client and staff personnel and between client and family and visitors. Reports any abnormality in the client's range of motion, body mechanics or body alignment. Maintains current TB Testing (refer to Health Screening Policy). Is knowledgeable of the Agency's organization, functions, and services. Complies with Agency dress code policy. Maintains efficient flow of Agency work by reporting to work at assigned or scheduled times; follows procedures for notification of absence or time of requests. A Licensed Practical Nurse with the education and proven clinical competence to perform certain treatments/procedures may do so provided that the Home Health Agency's policies and the State's Regulatory Acts allow such performance. Only advanced LPNs with documented skills may perform the following: administer medications, hang hydrating fluid without medications, flush peripheral lines with saline or heparin solutions, calculate and adjust flow rates, hang I.V.s premixed with medications, start peripheral I.V.s, inspect insertion sites, change dressings, and remove peripheral I.V. needles/catheters, check blood with a Registered Nurse.