Practical Nurse

Overview

The position is assigned to the Nursing - Ambulatory Care Service at the Montgomery VA Medical Center, Montgomery, Alabama. The incumbent practices as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) on the Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT). The LPN assists the provider/RN with medical aspects of patient care, such as medication management, education and counseling on disease prevention, safe patient handling, wound care and treatment, and related duties.

• Assist the provider/registered nurse with medical aspects of patient care, including medication management, wound care, and treatment per established policies.
• Prepare and administer prescribed medications (oral, topical, subcutaneous, intramuscular, and/or intravenous as permitted by local policies).
• Document patient assessments, responses to medications, and any deviations from expected outcomes in the patient record; promptly report changes to the RN or MD/DO.
• Recognize urgent or emergent patient care situations, seek assistance as directed, and initiate appropriate emergency interventions when directed.
• Maintain safety by recognizing and reporting equipment malfunctions, hazards, and supply deficiencies.
• Provide patient and family education on disease processes, medications, and prescribed treatment regimens.
• Assist in preparing patients for diagnostic tests and procedures and support the patient during and after these procedures as needed.
• Respond to patient call lights promptly and provide courteous service in all interactions.
• Support the nursing team by orienting/training less experienced LPNs/LVNs, Nursing Assistants, or Health Technicians in applicable standards of practice.
• Participate in continuous learning and seek educational opportunities to enhance nursing knowledge and skills.

• Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship;
  
  Education:
  
  Graduation from an approved practical or vocational nursing program;
  Licensure:
  Full, active, current, and unrestricted LPN/LVN licensure;
  English Language Proficiency:
  Proficient in spoken and written English;
  May qualify under Grandfathering Provision if applicable;
  Physical requirements as outlined by VA directives.
• Grade determinations include GS-3 through GS-6 criteria as described, with progression based on experience and demonstrated competencies (GS-06 being the full performance level).
• Completion of at least one year of qualifying experience at the GS-4 level or equivalent, or other listed criteria for GS-4/GS-5 advancement as applicable.
• Demonstrated ability to perform a full range of practical nursing care and to work cooperatively with RNs and physicians; ability to document medications and treatments and to recognize when to seek higher-level review.

• Perform clinical tasks such as taking vital signs, wound care, assisting with minor procedures, and providing patient education and counseling on health maintenance and disease management.
• Assist with diagnostic tests and procedures, including preparing patients and handling necessary instruments/equipment; maintain patient safety and comfort.
• Maintain patient records, observe for changes in patients' conditions, and report findings to the RN/MD/DO.
• May participate as a preceptor for less experienced staff and provide on-the-job training as appropriate.
• Ensure adherence to infection control, sterilization, and facility policies and procedures.

• 1-2 years of experience in an ambulatory care setting or similar environment (e.g., outpatient clinics, physician offices).
• Proficiency in vital signs, medications administration, wound care, and assisting with minor procedures.
• Strong communication skills, patient education abilities, and the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and respond to emergencies appropriately.
• Flexibility to work within various clinic specialties if required.

• Work Schedule:
  
  Monday - Friday, 7:30 am – 4:00 pm or 8:00 am – 4:30 pm.
• Pay:
  Competitive salary with regular increases; higher step rate possible based on qualifications or special needs of the VA.
• Paid Time Off: 37-50 days per year (annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays); credit toward annual leave accrual may be considered for prior experience.
• Parental Leave:
  Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave after 12 months of employment.
• Child Care Subsidy:
  Eligible for subsidy for qualified dependents after 60 days of employment with income-based limits.
• Retirement:
  Traditional federal pension with 5-year vesting and federal 401K; VA health/vision/dental/insurance programs are available.
• Telework:
  Not available;
  Virtual:
  This is not a virtual position.
• Functional Statement numbers: 60029F, 60040F, 60032F, 60033F.