Job Information
SHORT STAFFED Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in Sioux City, Iowa
Overview: As a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), you will play a vital role in providing direct patient care under the supervision of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. Your responsibilities will include administering medications, performing treatments, and assisting with patient assessments and care planning.
Responsibilities:
Patient Assessment: Perform basic patient assessments, including vital signs monitoring, physical examinations, and collecting patient health history. Report any changes in patient condition to the supervising RN or physician.
Medication Administration: Administer medications orally, intromuscularly, subcutaneously, and intravenously as prescribed by healthcare providers. Ensure accurate dosage calculations, medication administration techniques, and documentation of medications administered.
Wound Care: Provide basic wound care, including dressing changes, wound irrigation, and monitoring for signs of infection or complications. Collaborate with the healthcare team to develop and implement appropriate wound care plans.
Treatment Procedures: Perform various treatment procedures, such as catheterization, tracheostomy care, and tube feedings, following established protocols and procedures. Monitor patients' responses to treatments and report any adverse reactions or complications.
Patient Education: Provide patient education and counseling on healthcare topics, including medication use, disease management, lifestyle modifications, and preventive care measures. Ensure patients and their families understand treatment plans and discharge instructions.
Documentation: Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, including nursing assessments, care plans, medication administration records, and progress notes. Document all interventions, observations, and patient responses in a timely manner.
Collaboration: Collaborate with other healthcare team members, including RNs, physicians, therapists, and social workers, to ensure coordinated and comprehensive patient care. Participate in interdisciplinary care conferences and contribute to care planning and goal setting.
Compliance and Safety: Adhere to nursing standards of practice, facility policies, and regulatory requirements to ensure compliance with state and federal laws. Follow infection control protocols, maintain a safe patient environment, and promote patient safety at all times.
Qualifications:
Licensure: Must have a current and valid license as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) issued by the state board of nursing. Licensure requirements may vary by state.
Education: Completion of a state-approved practical nursing program and attainment of a diploma or certificate in practical nursing. Some LPN programs may require prerequisite coursework or healthcare experience.
Clinical Skills: Proficiency in nursing skills and procedures, including medication administration, wound care, patient assessment, and treatment techniques. Knowledge of basic pharmacology, anatomy, and physiology.
Communication Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with patients, families, and healthcare team members. Ability to document patient information accurately and concisely.
Critical Thinking: Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess patient needs, prioritize care interventions, and make appropriate clinical judgments.
Empathy and Compassion: Empathy, compassion, and a patient-centered approach to care are essential qualities for LPNs, as they often work closely with patients and their families during times of illness or injury.