VA Wilmington, NC

LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE (LPN)

 

 

Qualifications. : 

 

Be a graduate from a Licensed Practical Nurse or Licensed Vocational Nurse Program accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC).

Possess current, unrestricted license to practice as an LVN/LPN in any one of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam or the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Prior to commencing service under this contract, Licensed Practical (Vocational) nurses must attend a two hour lecture on IV certification. Contractor nurses must then obtain certifications (e.g., IV, medications and blood administration) in accordance with clinic nursing service and command policy not later than 60 days after commencement of services, including MTF observation of three completed IV sticks.

Description.

Ensure patient care is carried out in accordance with the Standards of Nursing Care and the policies and procedures of the clinic.

Check patients into the clinic and triage using clinic guidelines.  Inform the nurse, physician extender or physician of the patient’s condition and potential problems.

Obtain and document patient and pertinent family history.

Perform a full range of diagnostic support duties which include taking vital signs, collecting specimens, obtaining, recording and tracking results of diagnostic tools.

Assist the physician in a variety of diagnostic examinations such as lumber punctures, colposcopies and sigmoidoscopies, by preparing, positioning and monitoring patients, and setting out and handling instruments and equipment.

Perform laboratory tests such as checking urine for sugar and stool for blood.  Record and report results.

Perform a range of treatment procedures that include sterile dressing changes, applying compresses, monitoring IV fluids, inserting catheters and suctions, inserting nasogastric tubes, administering medications, giving enemas, setting up and giving treatment that requires auxiliary equipment such as oxygen and suction. Ambulate patients to other areas to include Radiology, various clinics, and physical therapy.

Prepare patients for tests, examinations, treatments, and/or surgery.  Collect specimens such as urine, sputum and stool.  Label specimens for laboratory examinations and follow up by using CHCS/AHLTA or calling the laboratory for reports.  Alert provider to conditions which deviate from expected findings.

Prepare, start, monitor and discontinue intravenous fluids with accuracy and in accordance with established procedures.

Observe, report and document all observed symptoms, reactions, treatments and changes in the patient condition to the registered nurse, physician extender or physician.  Make careful observations to assess that nursing procedures and treatment do not cause additional distress.

Perform routine nursing care activities such as taking blood pressures, temperatures, baths and hygiene care, passing and removal of trays, changing of linen, and otherwise assist in the care of the physical needs of the patient.

Operate basic equipment required in delivery of patient care such as pumps, IV pumps, oxygen administration apparatus and incentive spirometers.

Execute physician’s orders within the guidelines of standard nursing practice. Ensure accurate medication is administered in correct form and dosage to the proper patient as directed by the physician.

Maintain records of nursing care, dose and time of medication administered, and indicate if the medication was not administered and the reason.

Administer immunizations in a safe and accurate manner with strict adherence to all NAVHOSP, NAVMED and CDC Immunization policies.

Recognize conditions which require isolation.  Ensure universal precautions are used in all patient encounters.

Recognize emergency situations and assist with, or institute emergency measures for sudden adverse developments in patients such as cardiac arrests.

Perform preoperative procedures for minor surgery, and fill out pre-op checklist.

Assist patients in admission, transfer, and perform discharge planning follow-up and documentation.

Support the patient and/or family members toward the achievement of treatment plan goals.  Provide instructions to the patient on invasive procedures, surgical procedures and post surgical conditions which were previously provided to the patient by a nurse, physician extender or physician.

Instruct patients on how equipment is used such as oxygen, suction, cardiac monitor and pulse oximeter.  Instruct patients and family on use of prescribed medications, contraindications of medications, and the necessity of proper follow-up care.

Provide emotional support to patients and families.

Ensure necessary supplies are available and equipment is in functioning order.

Provide an orderly, clean and safe environment for patients and staff. 

Handle telephone information requests with courtesy, accuracy and respect for patient confidentiality.  Receive information and distribute messages as necessary.

Ensure maintenance and re-supply of pharmaceuticals in the clinic.

Ensure upkeep and perform checks of emergency equipment i.e., oxygen, emergency cart, suction apparatus, etc.  and maintain appropriate logs.  Inform the Charge Nurse of any discrepancy on daily checks.

Hours of Operation.