Licensed Practical Nurse\/Licensed Vocational Nurse

Job Description:
The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides competent, compassionate nursing care to patients and families under the direct guidance and supervision of a physician and Nurse Manager. The LPN collaborates with physicians and other staff members to ensure a quality-based, customer-oriented flow of work throughout the ambulatory practice while serving as a resource for clinical and clerical support staff.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide physical care and emotional support to patients and families under the direct supervision of the Nurse Manager and Medical Director.
• Participate in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of nursing care and treatment plans.
• Observe, report, and record pertinent patient information into the electronic health record system in accordance with Dermatology Service protocols.
• Identify patient care needs and utilize nursing resources appropriately.
• Support and reinforce the patient teaching plan, educating patients about proper medication usage.
• Provide instruction to patients regarding wound care.
• Administer medications within parameters defined by the Dermatology Service after successful orientation and perform nursing procedures accordingly.
• Photograph patients with various skin conditions using a variety of photographic procedures, techniques, and equipment.
• Participate in Quality Assurance activities and support peers in maintaining established standards of care.
• Triage urgent clinical calls, which may result in scheduling patient appointments, including Telehealth appointments.
• Inform patients of pathology, lab results, and plans of care.
• Utilize In-Basket messages to monitor all biopsies and ensure all necessary therapies are administered as scheduled.
• Provide clinical nursing coverage across Medical Dermatology specialty services.
• Obtain prior authorizations for medications as needed.
• Participate in developing and implementing new ideas in nursing practice; engage in daily activities that enhance patient comfort and safety.
• Appropriately utilize and conserve equipment and supplies.
• Order medical supplies and maintain appropriate inventories.
• Provide input to the Nurse Manager regarding perceived unit needs.
• Participate in unit and service committees.
• Ensure the physical environment is maintained and compliant with established protocols.
• Establish and enforce annual fire and safety regulations for the practice, ensuring compliance with the Joint Commission, OSHA, and Hospital guidelines.
• Troubleshoot routine/non-routine problems and implement corrective measures.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development across the patient's lifespan.
• Assess patient data relative to age-specific needs and provide care as outlined in departmental policies and procedures.
• Consider feedback from patients, families, and visitors, relaying insights to the Nurse Manager for practice improvement.

Skills/Abilities/Competencies Required:

• Maintain and update clinical knowledge and skills through relevant continuing education programs.
• Attend Nurses Association meetings.
• Exhibit knowledge and dedication to the highest standards of patient care and service excellence.
• Take initiative and exercise independent judgment, decision-making, and problem-solving expertise.
• Demonstrate a team-oriented attitude and the ability to work independently while effectively interacting with physicians, managers, and staff.
• Possess effective interpersonal/communication skills, organizational abilities, and flexibility to handle multiple tasks.
• Administer injections as required.

Licenses, Certifications, and/or Registrations:

• Current state licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse required.
• BLS certification required.

Education:

• Graduate of an approved LPN program required.

Experience:

• LPN experience of 1+ years preferred.
• Experience with EMR systems, specifically PointClick Care, is an advantage.

Certification: Basic Life Support