Duties/Responsibilities
Under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN), the Licensed Practical Nurse will be involved in the treatment of residents.
- Provide care and service to a minimum of 20 and a maximum of 40 Veterans.
- Supervise C.N.A in Resident Care.
- Provide direct patient care, including bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting assistance as needed.
- Monitor residents' physical and emotional well-being, reporting any changes to the RN or physician.
- Assist residents with mobility, transfers, and ambulation, ensuring safety and the use of assistive devices.
Clinical Responsibilities
- Perform vital signs, weight checks, and assist C.N.A with ADL care such as feeding and weight measurement.
- Administer medications (oral, topical, injectable, inhaled) as prescribed and document accurately.
- Provide wound care, including dressing changes, skin assessments, and preventive skin care.
- Collect specimens (urine, stool, sputum, blood via finger stick) for lab testing.
- Monitor and report lab values and diagnostic results to the RN or physician.
- Insert, maintain, and monitor urinary catheters, IVs (depending on state regulations), and feeding tubes.
- Administer oxygen therapy and monitor residents on oxygen.
Communication & Documentation
- Document all care provided, observations, and resident changes in the medical record promptly.
- Communicate effectively with the RN, Providers, residents, and designated representatives within the scope of practice.
- Report resident status changes or changes in condition immediately to the supervising RN or physician.
- Participate in shift hand-off reports to ensure continuity of care.
Supervision & Delegation
- Supervise and direct CNAs in daily resident care tasks.
- Ensure CNAs follow care plans and report concerns.
- Perform skin observation during showers and pre/post dialysis; report and document any abnormalities to the RN.
- Provide feedback, support, and guidance to C.N.As.
Care Planning
- Assist in reviewing and updating resident care plans under RN supervision.
- Participate in care conferences with interdisciplinary team members.
- Implement interventions in accordance with care plans and physician orders.
Emergency Response
- Recognize and respond promptly to medical emergencies with RN prompt notification for assessment (falls, seizures, cardiac/respiratory distress).
- Assist in performing CPR and first aid as required.
- Contact RN, physician, or emergency services when necessary.
Resident Advocacy & Support
- Promote dignity, respect, and resident rights in all care activities.
- Provide emotional support to residents and families.
- Educate residents and families about health needs, medications, and care routines (within scope).
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