Licensed Practical Nurse

Summary At the Indian Health Service, Licensed Practical Nurses do more than practice medicine—they change lives. Guided by our mission to raise the health of American Indian and Alaska Native people, you’ll deliver compassionate care where it is needed most. Responsibilities Observing, recording, and reporting changes in patients’ physical or emotional condition and contributing to the development and revision of the patient‑driven, holistic plan of care. Providing safe, comprehensive nursing care to patients across the lifespan in accordance with established standards, policies, and procedures. Preparing and administering prescribed medications (oral, topical, subcutaneous, intramuscular, and intravenous), monitoring for therapeutic and adverse effects, and accurately documenting patient response. Performing basic and intermediate nursing procedures and treatments such as sterile dressing changes, catheter care, bladder scanning, blood glucose monitoring, specimen collection, and wound care. Recognizing and responding to urgent or emergent situations, initiating basic life support and other emergency measures while awaiting further assistance. Assisting with diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including preparing the patient, assembling supplies and instruments, maintaining aseptic/sterile technique, and monitoring the patient before, during, and after procedures. Providing education and reinforcement of teaching to patients and families related to disease processes, treatment regimens, and self‑care activities. Utilizing electronic medical record systems to document care accurately and timely in accordance with facility documentation guidelines. Practicing infection control and safety procedures, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to isolation precautions. Participating in interdisciplinary team conferences, performance improvement initiatives, and discharge planning to support optimal patient outcomes. Establishing therapeutic and respectful relationships with patients and families that foster trust, privacy, and dignity in care delivery. Serving as a preceptor to orient and mentor less experienced LPNs, nursing assistants, or health technicians. Actively seeking opportunities for continuing education and professional development to enhance clinical knowledge and competency. Requirements U.S. citizenship is required. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. This is a designated position covered by Public Law 101‑630; applicants must have no disqualifying criminal convictions. On‑call hours or standby duty may be required. Position may be subject to rotating shifts; days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Successful completion of the E‑Verify employment verification check is required. Must be licensed to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia, or have applied for such a license. Background investigation is required as a condition of employment. Background Investigation Requirement This position requires the successful completion of a federal background investigation as a condition of employment. Applicants must complete all required background forms within five calendar days of issuance. Qualifications To qualify, your resume must state sufficient experience and/or education for the duties of this position. Experience includes paid and unpaid, including volunteer work through National Service programs. Candidates must also meet the following grade‑specific experience and education requirements. For GS‑4: 6 months nursing experience or a successful completion of a practical nursing program of at least 9 months’ duration combined with 1 year of nursing assistant experience; or a 2‑year degree program in practical nursing. For GS‑5 and above: 1 year of nursing experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level. Specific duties include pre‑ and post‑operative patient care, operating room assistance, and setting up medical equipment. Specialized experience requirements differ by grade and include tasks such as critical interventions, program implementation, and preceptorship. Minimum Qualifications Licensed practical or vocational nursing status, or documented application for licensure. Proficiency in the nursing functions described in the responsibilities section. Ability to work independently under RN or physician supervision as required. Physical ability to perform required duties, including lifting and repetitive tasks. Education Applicants should submit unofficial transcripts for all education. Official transcripts will be required prior to formal offer. Only degrees from accredited institutions are accepted. Foreign education may be considered with a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency. Benefits This position may offer federal retirement, health, life, and long‑term care insurance, annual leave, and other standard federal benefits. Eligibility for additional incentive payments or promotion may be discussed within the approval process. EEO Statement The Indian Health Service and the U.S. federal government are affirmative action and equal opportunity employers. All employment is decided upon strictly on the basis of qualifications, merit and performance. #J-18808-Ljbffr