Licensed Practical Nurse​/Charge Nurse - SNF

Overview

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is responsible for following the care plan for the emotional, mental, and physical care being given to skilled and long-term care residents and for observing that the care provided by CNAs is given according to the long and short term goals of the care plan within our 30 bed facility. The LPN supervises the day to day nursing activities performed by the CNA.

The LPN also mentors and provides guidance to the CNAs and staff within their assigned area. The LPN works under the Director of Nursing or designated RN. The LPN must be able to cope with mental and emotional stress in this position and to communicate with patients, families and visitors in a way that promotes a wholesome environment. The LPN administers medications and treatments within the scope of practice for the State of Tennessee.

The LPN is, along with other staff, an advocate for the patient’s right to obtain and receive the highest quality and level of care attainable in order to have the best outcomes. This is the driving principle of the care team.

Job duties include but are not limited to the following tasks:

• Administers medications and treatments according to physician orders and treatment plans. Documents this promptly and accurately on MAR, TAR and nurses notes as appropriate in line with industry standards and facility policy.
• Administers medications according to accepted guidelines in a timely fashion.
• Makes sure all patients are assigned to a CNA and informs CNA of anything that needs to be done for the patient (going to doctor appointment, change in food or liquid consistency, etc..)
• If deficient practices are observed, supports CNAs by teaching and providing support. Reports continued deficient practices to the DON or designee.
• Assures that assigned residents are covered while the CNA takes rest and meal breaks.
• Coordinates rest and meal breaks with other licensed staff in order to assure a licensed nurse is available at all times.
• Observes patients while dining and assigns trained staff to remain in the dining areas while meals are being served and eaten.
• LPN will respond immediately to accidents, incidents and allegation of resident abuse, neglect, misappropriation of property. The LPN will assess the resident and provide emergency treatment. Notify the Director of Nursing or designee, the Administrator as appropriate, the physician and responsible party when the resident is involved in an accident or incident. The LPN charge nurse initiates an immediate investigation.
• Documents all pertinent clinical information reflecting the care provided to the patient as well as the patient’s response to the care.
• Is familiar with the patient care plan and any changes in care routine. Communicates any of these changes to the CNA for that patient.
• Communicates any changes or concerns regarding patient care to the RN Manager on duty, or to the following shift if no RN Manager on duty. Communicate timely with physicians or nurse practitioner related to resident’s care needs and concerns as delegated by the DON or RN Manager.
• Assures that resident rights are followed with all staff, visitors and families. If a violation of rights is observed or reported, the LPN charge nurse begins an immediate investigation according to facility policy.
• Uses universal precautions and follows special instructions for infection control and isolation.
• For safety of both employee and resident, uses gait belt, shower chairs, lifts, scales, electric controls on beds and equipment responsibly, appropriately and correctly for tasks as trained. Reports any malfunctioning, fraying or broken equipment immediately to supervisor.
• Answers call lights promptly and follows up on patient request/needs promptly.
• Observes privacy and dignity of residents and does not share resident medical or psychosocial information with other residents, visitors or any unauthorized persons.
• Develops and maintains a good working rapport with other departments within the facility.
• Consistently demonstrates professionalism and confidentiality.
• Participates in quality assurance program and attends appropriate QA committee meetings as directed…