LVN Behavioral Health

Job Summary:

The Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN/LPN) in Behavioral Health provides specialized nursing care to residents with Alzheimer's, dementia, and other neurobehavioral conditions exhibiting aggressive behaviors. The role involves managing behavioral disturbances in a secured environment, medication administration, and developing individualized behavioral management strategies. The LVN/LPN collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to stabilize residents for discharge planning, ensuring safety and promoting maximum functional ability. Responsibilities:

• Provide skilled nursing care to residents with Alzheimer's, dementia, and behavioral disturbances in a locked unit setting.
• Monitor vital signs, blood glucose levels, intake and output, and other clinical indicators.
• Apply behavior management and de-escalation techniques to manage assaultive and unpredictable behaviors.
• Administer medications and manage medication protocols safely and accurately.
• Follow isolation precautions and ensure proper labeling and handling of specimens.
• Participate in discharge planning to facilitate resident transition to less restrictive settings.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to develop and implement individualized care plans.
• Maintain accurate documentation and communicate resident status effectively.
• Adhere to facility policies regarding float assignments and weekend coverage.

Required Skills & Certifications:

• Current LVN/LPN licensure in the state of practice.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
• Minimum of 2 years nursing experience, preferably in behavioral health or similar settings.
• Skills in blood glucose monitoring/testing, vital sign monitoring, and intake/output documentation.
• Experience with behavior management techniques and managing assaultive behavior.
• Ability to work in a locked unit and skilled nursing facility/nursing home environment.
• Driver's license and reliable transportation as required by facility.

Preferred Skills & Certifications:

• Experience with neurobehavioral rehabilitation or dementia care programs.
• Familiarity with EPIC electronic health records system.
• Additional certifications in psychiatric or geriatric nursing care.
• Previous experience in float roles and weekend coverage.

Special Considerations:

• Work in a secured, locked behavioral health unit specializing in residents with aggressive behaviors.
• Residents with oxygen, intravenous therapy, feeding tubes, or other complex medical devices are not accepted.
• Float assignments and weekend coverage every other weekend are required.
• Orientation held during daytime hours in the first week.
• Focus on safety, stabilization, and discharge planning for residents.

Scheduling:

• Day shift orientation initially; subsequent shifts may vary based on facility needs.
• Weekend coverage required on an every other weekend basis.
• Float assignments as needed per facility requirements.