LPN - Charge/Desktop Nurse

LPN – Charge/Desktop Nurse

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) – Charge / Desktop Nurse is a 100% onsite clinical leadership role responsible for overseeing daily clinic workflow while performing centralized desktop triage and clinical coordination functions.

This position serves as the Charge Nurse for assigned clinic operations, supervising workflow between Medical Assistants and providers, while also managing telephone triage, electronic health record (EHR) task queues, and care coordination activities.

The LPN – Charge / Desktop Nurse ensures efficient patient flow, appropriate clinical disposition, regulatory compliance, and high standards of patient-centered care within the scope of Illinois LPN practice under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician.

Salary Range: $68,000 - $70,000

Essential Job Duties

Clinical Operations & Patient Care

• Assist providers with patient examinations and diagnostic procedures.
• Perform phlebotomy, EKGs, specimen collection, and special procedures (e.g., ear wax removal, breathing treatments).
• Administer medications and immunizations under the supervision of a Clinical Nurse Manager or Provider.
• Provide telephone and in-person triage for medical concerns or patient requests.
• Monitor and review daily incoming patient results (e.g., lab reports, x-rays) and ensure follow-up.
• Document all aspects of patient care according to Friend Health policies and procedures.
• Educate patients and families on care plans, treatment options, and follow-up instructions.

Desktop Triage & Clinical Assessment

• Conduct comprehensive nursing assessments via telephone using approved triage protocols.
• Determine urgency and appropriate disposition of care (same-day, routine, urgent care, emergency services).
• Identify red-flag symptoms and escalate emergent cases immediately.
• Provide nursing advice and symptom management guidance within scope of practice.

Leadership & Supervision

• Supervise Lead Medical Assistants and Medical Assistants to ensure clinic workflow and efficiency.
• Collaborate with the Clinical Nurse Manager, team members, and providers to enhance patient care.
• Maintain compliance with clinical supply regulations and ensure a well-organized work environment.
• Implement cost-effective measures to optimize clinic operations.
• Support positive staff morale, motivation, and team collaboration.
• Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development opportunities.
• Assist with the onboarding and training of new or temporary employees.

Qualifications

• Current Illinois LPN License required.
• Graduate from a state-approved nursing program with successful completion of a pharmacology course.
• Two to five years of experience in a healthcare setting, preferably in an outpatient clinic environment.
• Prior charge nurse or workflow leadership experience preferred.
• Telephone triage experience strongly preferred.
• Experience with electronic health records (Epic strongly preferred).
• Strong clinical assessment and decision-making skills.
• Ability to lead workflow and provide staff direction.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong documentation accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask in a high-volume environment.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Lead Worker – Assigns and reviews work, provides input into performance evaluations, and offers guidance and coaching to staff.
• Direct Reports: Lead Medical Assistants, Medical Assistants.

Benefits & Compensation

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions
• Generous paid time off (PTO) and holidays
• Continuing education and professional development opportunities

Occupational Risk for Exposure to TB

This position involves direct patient care, posing a risk of exposure to Tuberculosis (TB). Employment is contingent upon annual TB testing, except for:

• Documented medical contraindications
• Documented religious objections

Staff who decline TB testing or flu vaccinations due to medical or religious reasons will be required to wear a mask as appropriate.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Friend Health – HRDI is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, marital or parental status, sexual orientation including gender identity, gender expression, military discharge status, physical or mental disability, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

In addition, Friend Health – HRDI provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state and local laws, including during the application or hiring process.

Join Friend Health and make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As an LPN – Charge / Desktop Nurse, you will play a critical role in supporting clinic workflow, patient access, and clinical coordination. If you are a detail-oriented nurse who thrives in a fast-paced outpatient environment and enjoys balancing leadership with triage and patient care, we invite you to grow with us.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.