Licensed Practical Nurse II - Respite - Southeastern Region - Full and Part Time - Continuous Posting

Licensed Practical Nurse II - Respite - Southeastern Region

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS), Southeastern Residential Services (SRS) has an exciting and unique opportunity! SRS is seeking several compassionate and experienced nurses to work as a Licensed Practical Nurse II in a specialized residential home in the Taunton, MA area supporting adults with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities. This Respite home has successfully operated since October 2011 offering relief and periodic support to families caring for their loved ones with complex medical needs. This Respite home was temporarily closed during the pandemic and is now preparing to re-open. If you consider yourself a person who seeks to make a difference in the lives of others, please apply! We aim to serve as advocates that promote autonomy and personal choice while treating every individual with dignity, respect and support. This position will be based at the Medical Respite Home and supports individuals 18 years of age and older throughout Massachusetts who meet the eligibility requirements; this is a great nursing opportunity for candidates interested in furthering their career and broadening their experience while working in a small setting. LPN IIs will participate in the delivery of health care services to individuals that includes, but is not limited to: clinical nursing ranging from tracheotomy care, g-j tube nutrition and hydration; administering medications and providing ordered treatments; as well as personal care and continuous observation and monitoring; 1:1 hands-on direct support; and collaborative planning to meet the health needs of all residents while engaging in fun activities and community outings as appropriate. LPN IIs will also assist with all tasks relevant to activities of daily living (ADLs).Our LPNs are an extremely important position within our team, developing relationships with individuals, family members, and other additional parties involved in improving the overall health and quality of living for those assisted by the agency. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts recognizes the unique skill required to work in this setting, and therefore, positions within this home may be eligible to earn a "hourly differential" per their Bargaining Unit agreement.

Provide direct nursing and personal care supports to individuals with developmental disabilities in a home like setting. Dispenses medications, communicates with PCP and specialty Physicians for the Individuals. Provide community opportunities for the Individuals during their visit. Complete all required paperwork such as Physician's orders, medication sheets, transcription, progress notes and all other relevant summary notes. Prepare meals according to the individual's nutritional guidelines, perform light housekeeping as assigned. Communicate daily with involved families. Work collaboratively with peer group and upper management.

Must possess a current, active license to practice as an LPN in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Agency Requirements: Must possess current and valid Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Incumbents must obtain and maintain Health Care Provider Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.

Ability to develop and maintain respectful, caring, tolerant, ethical, and empowering relationships with DDS individuals and co-workers. Capacity to assist/lift individuals with physical disabilities and/or limited mobility. Knowledge of standard nursing policies, procedures, methods and techniques. Capacity to maintain accurate records and exercise discretion in handling confidential information. Familiarity with safety practices and medical terminology/abbreviations. Ability to work with individuals who are medially complex and require tracheotomy care, ostomy care, wound care, respiratory treatments, etc. Aptitude to transcribe, read and comprehend the English language.

This position is in a program that operates 24-hours/7 days a week. The Department of Developmental Services requires employees in this position to be able to perform mandatory overtime when circumstances dictate the need. This position is designated as an "EMERGENCY" position in the Department of Developmental Services Emergency Plan. This means that whenever the Governor declares that the Commonwealth is in a state of emergency, you will be required to report to work.

Full-time - 20 hour/part time and 40-hour/ full time weekly positions available Schedule Multiple Days off Varies

The mission of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is to create innovative and genuine opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder to participate fully and contribute meaningfully to their communities as valued members. DDS serves over 43,000 vulnerable individuals throughout their lifetimes, providing a spectrum of day, employment, and residential supports. The agency directly oversees and manages $3 billion in public funds ($2.7B+ operating budget) and approximately 5,500 staff, the largest state employee workforce of any agency in the Massachusetts executive branch of government.