LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is responsible for providing and coordinating quality nursing care and health services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This position ensures that medical needs are appropriately assessed, documented, monitored, and addressed while collaborating with physicians, interdisciplinary team members, families, and support staff to achieve positive health outcomes.

Direct Care Responsibilities

• Provide prescribed treatments and healthcare procedures as ordered by a physician.
• Conduct nursing assessments and contribute to the development and implementation of individualized healthcare plans.
• Monitor individuals' health status, including changes in medical conditions, weight, and overall well-being.
• Administer and monitor medications in accordance with Medication Administration Records (MARs) and applicable regulations.
• Provide health education and medical training to employees, individuals served, and other stakeholders as appropriate.
• Assess and respond to medical concerns and ensure appropriate follow-up care and interventions.

Administrative and Clinical Responsibilities

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of nursing care, treatment plans, and health status updates within electronic health records.
• Prepare and distribute Individual Service Plan (ISP) Medical/Health Reports.
• Communicate relevant health information to families, guardians, physicians, and interdisciplinary team members.
• Coordinate referrals, appointments, and follow-up care with external medical providers.
• Train and support newly hired staff regarding individual-specific medical needs and healthcare protocols.
• Conduct audits and reviews of Medication Administration Records (MARs) to ensure compliance with medication administration standards.
• Complete Incident Reports (IRs) and Unusual Incident Reports (UIRs) related to medication errors or medical concerns.
• Maintain inventory of medical supplies and coordinate replenishment as needed.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and contribute to healthcare planning and service coordination.

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Graduate of an accredited Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program.

Licensure

• Current and unrestricted New Jersey Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license required.

Experience

• Minimum of one (1) year of nursing experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, behavioral health needs, or related populations preferred.

Clinical Knowledge and Technical Skills

Demonstrates strong nursing knowledge and clinical competence, including medication administration, treatments, specialized healthcare procedures, and compliance with state regulations and professional standards.

Assessment and Attention to Detail

Accurately evaluates health conditions, recognizes changes in status, and maintains precise documentation and medication records.

Communication Skills

Effectively communicates medical information verbally and in writing with individuals served, families, physicians, staff, and interdisciplinary team members.

Interpersonal Effectiveness

Builds positive, respectful, and professional relationships with individuals served, coworkers, families, and community stakeholders.

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Assesses situations effectively, identifies concerns, and implements appropriate nursing interventions while exercising sound clinical judgment.

Organization and Time Management

Prioritizes multiple responsibilities, manages documentation requirements, and ensures medical follow-up activities are completed in a timely manner.

Accountability and Independence

Performs duties with minimal supervision while maintaining responsibility for clinical outcomes, compliance, and documentation accuracy.

Training and Staff Development

Provides ongoing instruction, coaching, and support to staff regarding medical protocols, individual healthcare needs, and medication administration procedures.

Compliance and Regulatory Awareness

Maintains knowledge of applicable federal, state, licensing, and agency requirements and ensures adherence to established policies and procedures.

Additional Requirements

• Excellent customer service skills, both internal and external.
• Knowledge of state and federal regulations related to residential and community-based services.
• Experience with behavioral support strategies, crisis intervention, and de-escalation techniques.
• Proficiency in medication administration and healthcare documentation.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification or the ability to obtain certification within required timeframes.
• Knowledge of medical terminology.
• Working knowledge of agency policies, procedures, values, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Basic computer proficiency, including email, electronic documentation systems, timekeeping systems, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and automobile insurance that meets state minimum requirements.
• Ability to successfully complete all required background checks, employment screenings, and FBI clearances, if applicable.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Physical Requirements

• Sit for extended periods at a desk, workstation, or meeting table.
• Reach, bend, stoop, twist, stand, and climb stairs.
• Drive a vehicle.
• Lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to 50 pounds.
• Perform physical assistance and positioning activities when necessary.

Work Environment

• Residential homes and community-based settings.
• Office environments located across multiple service locations.
• Facilities may include multiple floors with stairways and elevator access.

Equipment Utilized

• Multi-line telephone systems and cellular phones.
• Computers and electronic health record systems.
• Copiers, fax machines, calculators, and other office equipment.
• Microsoft Office applications and agency-specific software.

Network-Wide Responsibilities

The Licensed Practical Nurse is expected to:

• Comply with all OSHA standards and requirements.
• Adhere to all Fire and Safety policies and procedures.
• Follow all organizational fiscal, Human Resources, and operational policies.
• Maintain strict compliance with HIPAA and confidentiality requirements.
• Attend and participate in all required meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.
• Consistently demonstrate professionalism, ethical conduct, and sound judgment.
• Promote the mission, vision, values, and goals of Advancing Opportunities.

Safety and Compliance Knowledge

Knowledge of and compliance with:

• Bloodborne Pathogens standards.
• Right-to-Know regulations.
• HIPAA requirements.
• Security protocols.
• Fire and Safety procedures.

This version is more consistent with current HR and compliance standards and is formatted for easier inclusion in a formal job description template.