Licensed Practical Nurse

Overview Summary: At the Indian Health Service, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) do more than practice medicine—they change lives. Guided by our mission to raise the health of American Indian and Alaska Native people, you\'ll deliver compassionate care where it\'s needed most. Your expertise brings healing and hope across generations. Begin your journey with purpose and receive a recruitment/relocation sign-on bonus, if you are eligible. This position involves delivering direct, evidence-based nursing care to patients with acute, sub-acute, or chronic health conditions in inpatient, outpatient, or home care settings. As a vital member of the interdisciplinary healthcare team, the LPN demonstrates clinical competence, sound judgment, and a commitment to patient-centered care. Assignments may range from routine to complex, requiring independent performance of nursing functions within established policies and under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) or physician. Responsibilities Observing, recording, and reporting changes in patients\' physical or emotional condition and contributing to the development and revision of the patient-driven, holistic plan of care. Providing safe, comprehensive nursing care to patients across the life span in accordance with established standards, policies, and procedures. Preparing and administering prescribed medications (oral, topical, subcutaneous, intramuscular, and intravenous), monitoring for therapeutic and adverse effects, and accurately documenting patient response. Performing basic and intermediate nursing procedures and treatments such as sterile dressing changes, catheter care, bladder scanning, blood glucose monitoring, specimen collection, and wound care. Recognizing and responding to urgent or emergent situations, initiating basic life support and other emergency measures while awaiting further assistance. Assisting with diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including preparing the patient, assembling supplies and instruments, maintaining aseptic/sterile technique, and monitoring the patient before, during, and after procedures. Providing education and reinforcement of teaching to patients and families related to disease processes, treatment regimens, and self-care activities. Utilizing electronic medical record systems to document care accurately and timely in accordance with facility documentation guidelines. Practicing infection control and safety procedures, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to isolation precautions. Participating in interdisciplinary team conferences, performance improvement initiatives, and discharge planning to support optimal patient outcomes. Establishing therapeutic and respectful relationships with patients and families that foster trust, privacy, and dignity in care delivery. Serving as a preceptor to orient and mentor less experienced LPNs, nursing assistants, or health technicians. Actively seeking opportunities for continuing education and professional development to enhance clinical knowledge and competency. Requirements U.S. Citizenship is required Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959 This is a designated position covered by Public Law 101-630, requiring contact or control over Indian children. The agency must ensure that persons hired for these positions have not been found guilty of or pleaded nolo contendere or guilty to certain crimes. IHS Selectees may be subject to Employee Health Policies related to Measles and Rubella, and seasonal influenza immunizations. Vaccine exemption requests may be available according to guidance. The selected individual is required to obtain and maintain medical staff clinical privileges, including licensure requirements. If privileges are not obtained or maintained, adverse actions may be taken. On-call hours or standby duty may be required. Position may be subject to rotating shifts (days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays). Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. Direct deposit setup is required. Background & Education Background Investigation Requirement: A federal background investigation is required. Education: Transcripts or course lists are encouraged. Official transcripts required prior to offer. Acceptable professional education includes accredited programs. Foreign education requires a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency. Licensure: Must be currently licensed as a practical or vocational nurse or must have applied for licensure with a plan to obtain it during the probationary period. Qualifications To qualify, the resume must demonstrate sufficient experience and/or education to perform the duties of the position. Experience may include paid, unpaid, or volunteer work. Specific specialized experience grades include: Specialized Experience GS-4: Assist with basic nursing care tasks and follow infection control and safety policies. Specialized Experience GS-5: Observe, record, and report changes; perform nursing procedures; manage vital signs and specimens; assist with examinations and treatments; provide patient/family instructions. Specialized Experience GS-6: Assess and respond to changes in condition; implement components of the nursing plan of care; perform procedures; administer medications; provide education; serve as a preceptor. Education & Additional Information Promotion potential to GS-06. You may be asked to provide short essay responses as part of the application process (optional and not scored). See links in original posting for loan repayment programs and benefits. Federal employees earn annual leave based on years of service. This position may be covered by a Bargaining Unit. Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized. A service agreement may be required. Review our benefits: E-Verify #J-18808-Ljbffr