LPN -FT/PT/PD

MAJOR PURPOSE: Responsible for the overall operation and optimal quality of care for the residents on the assigned unit. Follows all health, sanitary, and infection control policies and maintains established standards of practice set forth by the facility's administration and the Nursing Policies and Procedures.

• Ability to read, write and comprehend English; ability to follow oral and written instructions.
• Interest in the nursing needs of the aged and the chronically ill with the ability to work with both.
• Ability to work with supervisors, co-workers and facility staff in the performance of duties.
• Ability to work hours as scheduled based on the requirements of the position/assignment. On call as necessary.
• Practical Nurse licensed in the State of employment. Minimum one year of education or experience in geriatric nursing or rehabilitation preferred.
• Knowledge of nursing theory and practice, including the administration of medications.
• CPR certified.

• Works in an appropriately lighted and ventilated environment.
• This position may result in your being exposed to blood/body fluids.

• Must be able to move intermittently throughout the day, proper body mechanics required - bending, stooping, turning, stretching, reaching above the shoulders and occasional lifting are involved.
• Must be able to cope with the mental, emotional and physical stress of the position.
• Must be able to observe, listen and communicate effectively.
• Must function independently, have flexibility, personal integrity, and the ability to work effectively with residents, personnel, support agencies, and outside agencies.

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS:

Holds daily shift reports with nursing assistants assigned to the unit prior to the start of the shift. Reviews wrote daily assignments for each resident on the assigned unit. Assures assignments are completed before the end of the shift.

• Makes rounds on assigned residents at least once every two hours.
• Administers medication and treatments according to the physician's orders. Assumes responsibility for ordering medications.
• Collaborates with Care Plan Coordinator to develop and maintain nursing care plans and update these plans on a monthly basis or more often if the resident's condition changes.

• Assists the attending physician with rounds and special procedures as needed.
• Transcribes, documents and implements physician's orders.
• Contacts the resident's physician and family to notify them of a change in the resident's condition or accident/incident; also notifies the supervisor covering.
• Assumes independent responsibility for yearly written evaluations of nursing assistants and documents accurately their strengths, weaknesses and the steps taken to improve their performance. Such evaluations become part of the nursing assistants permanent records and shall be used as the basis to determine the continued employment of nursing assistants, promotional opportunities and the amount of any wage increases granted.
• Assumes independent responsibility for documenting disciplinary concerns for nursing assistants on designated shifts, including reprimands, oral and written warnings, and recommending the suspension or discharge of an employee.
• Assumes independent responsibility for completing required routine documentation and auditing as required.
• Participates in the hiring, interviewing, and orientation of nursing assistants.

• Understands responsibilities concerning infection control, safety,
• accident and fire prevention.
• Assumes duties and attends meetings as assigned by the Unit Manager, ADNS or DNS.
• Discusses any problems, needs, or concerns which arise with the Unit Manager, ADNS or DNS regarding the nursing service department.
• Assumes responsibility in supporting the DNS in promoting and maintaining positive employee relations and effective communications among facility staff.
• Maintains professional appearance and mannerisms according to established facility standards.
• Assists the Staff Development Coordinator with orientation and on-the-job training for new nursing personnel as needed.
• Attends and participates in interdisciplinary resident care conferences as directed.
• Notifies Care Plan Team of changes in condition and weight loss of a resident. Notifies Care Plan Coordinator of any changes in a resident's condition and of loss of a resident.
• Presents a neat appearance with a pleasant speaking voice and personality. Must be punctual.
• Works with a minimum of supervision.
• Discusses any problems, needs or concerns which arise with the Administrator.
• Attends in-service educational classes and on-the-job training programs as directed.
• Creates and maintains an atmosphere of warmth, personal interest, and a positive image throughout the facility.
• Treats people with respect; works ethically and with integrity; upholds organizational values and mission statement; supports affirmative action and respects diversity.
• Understands and upholds the Residents' Bill of Rights and holds all resident information confidential.