LPNs

Job Description: Park Forest Care Center Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Position Overview:

As a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in a long-term care nursing home, your role is to provide comprehensive nursing care to residents under the direction of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians. You will be responsible for assessing residents' health needs, administering medications and treatments, coordinating care plans, and ensuring the overall well-being of residents. Your primary focus will be on delivering high-quality, person-centered care and collaborating with the interdisciplinary team to meet residents' physical, emotional, and social needs.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Resident Assessment and Care Planning:

• Conduct initial and ongoing assessments of residents' physical, mental, and emotional health, documenting relevant information and observations.

• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team, including RNs, physicians, and other healthcare professionals, to develop and revise individualized care plans based on residents' needs and preferences.

• Monitor residents' conditions, track changes, and communicate any significant findings to the appropriate healthcare professionals.

1. Medication Administration and Treatment:

• Administer medications to residents as prescribed, ensuring accurate dosage, timing, and documentation according to facility policies and regulatory guidelines.

• Perform treatments and procedures, such as wound care, injections, catheterizations, and respiratory therapies, adhering to established protocols and infection control practices.

• Monitor residents' response to medications and treatments, documenting any adverse reactions or changes in condition.

1. Nursing Care and Support:

• Provide direct nursing care to residents, including assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), mobility, and personal hygiene.

• Monitor vital signs, oxygen levels, and other physiological indicators, promptly reporting any abnormalities or concerns.

• Assist with resident transfers, repositioning, and mobility exercises to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers and muscle atrophy.

• Collaborate with CNAs and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated and holistic care for residents.

1. Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation of nursing assessments, care provided, medications administered, and resident responses.

• Complete required reports, forms, and charts in a timely manner, adhering to facility policies and regulatory requirements.

• Communicate effectively with the interdisciplinary team, providing comprehensive handoffs, sharing information, and collaborating on care plans.

1. Resident and Family Education:

• Educate residents and their families on health conditions, medications, treatments, and self-care techniques, promoting their understanding and participation in the care process.

• Address residents' questions, concerns, and needs in a compassionate and informative manner.

• Provide emotional support and guidance to residents and families, particularly during challenging situations or transitions.

1. Infection Control and Safety:

• Follow infection control protocols, including hand hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, and proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials.

• Maintain a safe and clean environment, identifying and reporting any safety hazards or equipment malfunctions.

• Adhere to safety policies and guidelines, ensuring the well-being and security of residents, staff, and visitors.

1. Professional Development and Collaboration:

• Stay updated on nursing best practices, new treatments, and industry standards through continuous learning and professional development opportunities.

• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team, participating in care conferences, team meetings, and quality improvement initiatives.

• Uphold ethical and professional standards of nursing practice, demonstrating empathy, respect, and integrity in all interactions.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Graduation from an accredited practical nursing program.

• Current and valid LPN license in the state where employed.

• Knowledge of nursing principles, practices, and standards in a long-term care setting.

• Strong assessment skills, including the ability to recognize and respond to changes in residents' conditions.

• Proficiency in administering medications and performing nursing procedures.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish rapport with residents, families, and the interdisciplinary team.

• Compassion, empathy, and a person-centered approach to care.

• Strong organizational and time management skills.

• Basic Life Support Certification required.

• Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems and basic computer skills.