LVN
Statement of Purpose
The Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN/ LPT) assesses patients and provides nursing care in accordance with physicians’ orders and treatment objectives and as instructed by supervisor. The LVN/ LPT works under the supervision of an RN in a substance use detox subacute hospital.
Major Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities
- Make presentations and facilitate educational groups & sessions.
- Assist in the assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of the nursing care plan.
- Assess and document patient treatment progress, medical or behavioral changes, and unusual incidents.
- Monitor patient management and treatment. May be assigned to provide continual observation of confused patients.
- Safely and accurately administer medications.
- Identify and assist in management of emergencies.
- Obtain and record vital signs. Chart routine information, vital signs, and daily activities.
- Monitor and document withdrawal symptoms.
- Conduct medication audits and destroy outdated medications per policy
- Assist with orientation, admission, transfer, and discharge of patients.
- Follow directions and orders of physicians and registered nurses.
- Teach and monitor patients and staff for compliance with COVID-19 safety protocols.
- Interact with patients to support their participation in the program. May provide educational sessions or other groups for patients.
- Coordinate other healthcare needs of the patient outside the facility.
- Provide clerical support as directed by nursing staff. Keep charts in order with all forms properly identified.
- Order inventory and stock supplies in the unit.
LVN Competencies and Performance Expectations
All LVN’s are expected to:
- Assist in the assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of the nursing care plan
- Audit medication room and destroy medications as needed per policy
- Monitor patient care and treatment
- Know and understand withdrawal management
- Participate in nursing assessments
- Adhere to professional standards
- Maintain health and safety standards of facility; Observe universal precautions, including correct handling of blood borne pathogens, storage of lab specimens, and disposal of infectious wastes.
- Comply with confidentiality requirements at all times.
- Maintain familiarity with BHS policies and procedures and other applicable regulations; performs job duties accordingly.
- Attend meetings and participates in committees as assigned.
- Identify a crisis. Demonstrate appropriate techniques for interventions, including AMA, behavioral issues, suicide threat, code green, and contraband on the unit.
- Recognize the symptoms associated with chemical dependency and detoxification.
- Recognize personal biases working within diverse populations. Maintain cultural sensitivity at all times.