Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Licensed Practical Nurse

The Licensed Practical Nurse is responsible for the performances of basic nursing duties to include execution of physician orders, operation of pill call, operation of sick call, and assisting the physician in examinations and treatments and performs technical/clinical procedures within the scope of his/her license. Assists in the professional management of the facility medical department. Apply appropriate nursing skills in the care and treatment of inmates/residents. Attend sick call with the physician to see inmates/residents; prepare a list of inmates/residents to be examined; prepare examining room and equipment. Operate pill call, dispense medication and document as required by applicable policies and/or procedures. Control medication, syringes and other medical supplies or equipment and inventory as required by established procedures. Perform emergency procedures as needed. Keep equipment and work area clean; utilize appropriate sanitation methods. Document and report activities in accordance with established policies and/or procedures including medical file documentation. Assist supervisor with evaluating the provision of all medical services to prevent the inappropriate use of duplication of those services. Maintain absolute security and confidentiality of all medical records. Closely monitor all potential catastrophic illnesses. May audit pharmacy use for adherence to formulary. Comply with all applicable pharmacy laws. Observe and record inmate/resident behavior. Inspect the medical unit for items that could be used as contraband by inmates/residents; securely store or safely dispose of supplies and equipment. Assist with preparing and maintaining a variety of standard narrative, statistical, summary and/or operational records, reports and logs, using appropriate grammar, to include filing, alphabetizing and labeling; review reports and records produced on the shifts; properly processes all reports and documents in a timely manner. Read, comprehend and interpret medical and technical procedures, governmental regulations, legal and non-legal documents, including the processing of such documents as medical instructions and commitment orders. Respond (via corporate counsel) to lawsuits; attend court hearings, when necessary; conduct research of charts; review status of inmates/residents with serious health problems for completion of all necessary intervention and treatment. Communicate effectively and coherently to administration, staff, inmates/residents, visitors and the general public, particularly in situations requiring tact, diplomacy, understanding, fairness, firmness and good judgment. Help evaluate and recommend physical safety requirements necessary to provide a safe working environment for both patients and staff. Facilitate, where applicable, NCCHC/ACA/JCAHO accreditation of the medical program by providing the required level of efficiency and approved, appropriate medical services. Help prepare and disseminate safety and accident reports as required by policies and procedures; take appropriate action in cases of serious and unusual incidents and emergencies. Escort inmates/residents or coordinate the movement of inmates/residents to and from different areas for medical treatment. Help initiate and complete investigations and inquiries with accuracy, as directed, by gathering information and evidence, interviewing and obtaining the statements; exercise independent judgment by determining when probable cause exists to recommend or take disciplinary action. Engage in functions in confined areas to include working rotating shifts and physically checking the doors, windows and other areas to verify they are secure. Be aware that verbal abuse may be present with the hostile views and opinions of inmates/residents and others encountered in an antagonistic environment. Perform rescue functions at accidents, emergencies and disasters to include administering basic emergency medical aid, physically removing people away from dangerous situations, and securing and evacuating people from confined areas. Take appropriate action to prevent or diffuse potentially disruptive situations. Establish and maintain effective working relations with others and handle difficult interpersonal contacts.