Job Title: Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Reports to: RN Nursing Supervisor/Unit Manager/Center Nurse Executive

Location: Decatur, AL

Position Summary:

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) works under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN) to provide efficient, high-quality nursing care that supports positive clinical outcomes and patient/family satisfaction. The LPN adheres to the scope of practice defined by the State Nurse Practice Act and contributes to patient assessments, care planning, and the direct provision of care. The role also supervises unlicensed staff and provides leadership to ensure that care is delivered effectively and in compliance with policies and procedures.

Responsibilities/Accountabilities:

1. Patient Evaluation:

• Collects, reports, and documents both objective and subjective patient data.
• Observes conditions and promptly reports any changes in patient condition to the RN.

1. Care Planning:

• Contributes to the development of individualized patient goals and care plans.
• Assists in creating interventions to achieve patient goals and minimize re-hospitalizations.
• Implements care plans and evaluates the effectiveness of interventions.
• Participates in reviewing and revising care plans as needed.

1. Provision of Direct Patient Care:

• Administers prescribed medications and performs treatments as directed by physicians.
• Communicates relevant patient data to RN and/or physician.
• Accurately documents all patient care activities.
• Seeks guidance from RN as necessary.
• Assists in discharge planning, including patient and family education.

1. Supervision of Unlicensed Staff:

• Assigns appropriate duties to unlicensed staff based on training and state regulations.
• Ensures unlicensed staff perform tasks according to established policies.
• Monitors and evaluates the performance of unlicensed staff.
• Communicates relevant patient information with unlicensed staff during shift changes.

1. Collaboration and Coordination:

• Participates in care coordination with multidisciplinary teams to ensure effective care delivery.
• Collaborates with other departments to meet individual patient needs.
• Facilitates shift-to-shift communication for continuity of care.

1. Compliance and Safety:

• Adheres to all company policies, procedures, and compliance regulations (HIPAA, False Claims Act, etc.).
• Promotes a culture of safety to maintain a healthy and secure environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
• Maintains confidentiality of patient information at all times.

1. Education and Professional Development:

• Attends required in-service training and continuing education programs.
• Assists in the orientation and training of new nursing staff.

1. Other Duties:

• Performs any other duties as assigned by the nursing supervisor or management.

Specific Educational/Vocational Requirements:

1. Graduation from an approved school of practical or vocational nursing.
2. Active license as a Licensed Practical Nurse in the State of practice.
3. Preferred experience in rehabilitative or geriatric nursing.
4. Ability to read, write, and speak English proficiently to ensure patient safety.
5. Verification of Tuberculin Skin Test (TST) as required by state law.
6. Current BLS/CPR certification.

Essential Job Functions:

• Physical Demands:
• Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 40 lbs).
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb stairs as needed.
• Ability to work in noisy environments and handle occasional exposure to fumes or gases.
• Work Environment:
• Primarily inside with some exposure to noise, vibrations, and occasional physical demands.
• Skills:
• Comprehensive nursing knowledge, including the ability to recognize symptoms and manage emergencies.
• Strong communication and coordination skills, especially in supervising unlicensed staff.
• Basic computer literacy.

Compliance Requirements:

• Legal Compliance:
• Adherence to the Compliance and Ethics Program, HIPAA regulations, and all other applicable federal and state laws.
• Participation in orientation and training programs, including mandatory compliance activities.