LPN - ADULT INPATIENT BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

The Licensed Practical Nurse functions as a member of the health-care team by exercising sound nursing judgment. The LPN provides direct and indirect patient care for an assigned group of patients under the direction and supervision of the RN and according to the plan of care derived from physician's orders and Registered Nurse assessment. Nursing Care includes physical care, emotional support, and patient and family education. Essential Job Functions Delivers direct and indirect patient care in accordance with the Pennsylvania Practical Nurse Law, hospital policies, procedures, protocols and other professional standards of care. Assists the RN in collecting patient health care data on admission by completing a focused assessment in an ongoing systematic manner, focusing on the physical, psychosocial, age, cultural and spiritual needs of the patient and which contributes to the comprehensive assessment by the RN. Works directly with the RN to implement an individualized, age-specific plan of care and evaluate its effectiveness. Assists the RN in reassessment of the patient's condition and takes appropriate action as indicated or by unit specific policy. Involves the patient/family and other health care providers when appropriate. Completes patient care related activities within scheduled time periods. Complies with completeness, accuracy and timeliness of documentation, utilizing the electronic medical record. Observes, records and reports to the appropriate professional the symptoms, reaction and changes including: General physical and mental condition of patients, and signs and symptoms which may be indicative of untoward changes; and stresses in human relationships between patients, between patients and personnel, and between patients and their families and visitors. Performs nursing functions as defined in Pennsylvania regulations, (where applicable by location and department need) such as: Administration of medications, immunizations, and therapeutic treatments prescribed by the physician; Preparation and care of patients receiving specialized treatments administered by the physician or the professional nurse. Assists with the rehabilitation of patients according to the medical care plan, being aware of and encouraging the interests and special aptitudes of patients. Encouraging patients to help themselves within their own capabilities in performing activities of daily living. Knowledge and application of the principles of prevention of deformities, the normal range of motion, body mechanics, and body alignment. Assists in providing education for the provision and coordination of patient care activities that promote and maintain health, foster self-care and improve outcomes. Assists the RN in assessing the patient's readiness to learn, identifying educational barriers and adapting the process to meet the needs of the patient. Ensures education about safely and effectively using medication, pain and managing pain, available resources, how to obtain further care, and information about responsibilities in their care. Acquires and distributes educational resources tailored to patient needs. Provides and reviews, upon request of the RN, written discharge instructions that demonstrate an inter-relationship between education, discharge planning and continuity of care. Maintains a collaborative relationship with physicians and other health care providers to achieve desired patient outcomes and assure a continuous flow of patient care. #J-18808-Ljbffr Independence Health System Inc.