Licensed Practical Nurse

Summary At the Indian Health Service, Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) deliver compassionate, evidence‑based care to American Indian and Alaska Native patients. The role supports a mission to raise the health of these communities and may offer a recruitment/relocation sign‑on bonus for eligible candidates. Real ID Requirement A REAL ID must be in effect for the employee beginning May 7, 2025, in accordance with 6 C.F.R. 37.5 (2021). Duties Observe, record, and report changes in patients’ physical or emotional condition and contribute to patient‑driven, holistic care plans. Provide safe nursing care in inpatient, outpatient, or home settings, following established standards, policies, and procedures. Prepare and administer medications (oral, topical, subcutaneous, intramuscular, intravenous), monitor effects, and document responses. Perform basic and intermediate procedures such as sterile dressing changes, catheter care, bladder scanning, blood glucose monitoring, specimen collection, and wound care. Recognize and respond to urgent or emergent situations, initiating basic life support and other emergency measures while awaiting further assistance. Assist with diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, ensuring aseptic technique and monitoring patients before, during, and after procedures. Provide education and reinforcement of teaching to patients and families on disease processes, treatment regimens, and self‑care activities. Document care accurately and timely using electronic medical record systems, in line with facility guidelines. Practice infection control and safety procedures, using personal protective equipment and adhering to isolation precautions. Participate in interdisciplinary team conferences, performance improvement initiatives, and discharge planning. Establish therapeutic and respectful relationships with patients and families, fostering trust, privacy, and dignity. Act as a preceptor for less experienced LPNs, nursing assistants, or health technicians. Pursue continuing education and professional development opportunities to enhance clinical knowledge and competency. Conditions of Employment Probationary period may apply. U.S. citizenship required. Selective Service registration required for males born after 12/31/1959. The position is subject to a federal background investigation and requires timely completion of all required forms. On‑call hours or standby duty, rotating shifts (days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays) may be required. Direct deposit for payroll is required. Qualifications – Experience Experience obtaining and maintaining licensure for practical or vocational nursing in the United States or territory, including pending applications. Clinical experience in acute, sub‑acute, or chronic care settings (hospital, outpatient clinic, nursing home, or other supervised medical facility). Specific Nursing Task Experience – operating room assistance, sterile techniques, pre‑ and post‑operative patient care, medical equipment operation, and emergency response. 6 months of nursing experience required for GS‑4; 1 year for GS‑5 and above; equivalence may be met with higher education. Qualifications – Education & Licensure Completion of a practical nursing program of at least nine months’ duration or a two‑year accredited degree program, and licensure for states or territories. Applicants not yet licensed must demonstrate intent to obtain licensure within 6 months of appointment. Documentation required: certificate of completion, unofficial transcripts, and if applicable, foreign education equivalency certificates. Minimum Qualifications – Specialized Experience GS‑4: Basic nursing care tasks, vital signs, diagnostic procedures, infection control, and safety policies. GS‑5: Observation, documentation, vital signs, specimen collection, equipment setup, physician assistance, and patient/family education. GS‑6: Advanced procedures, medication management, emergency interventions, complex treatments, and preceptor role. Benefits & Other Information Annual leave accrual based on years of federal service. Potential bargaining unit coverage. Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized with a service agreement. Eligible for Indian Health Service, National Health Service Corps, and Health Resources and Services Administration loan repayment programs. Position may advance to GS‑06 level based on performance; no guarantee of promotion. Financial Suitability The position requires a review of the applicant’s financial history. Candidates must demonstrate responsibility and the absence of delinquent financial obligations as part of the personnel security and suitability determination. #J-18808-Ljbffr Indian Health Service