Behavioral Health Inpatient LPN Position Available In Swain, North Carolina

Behavioral Health Inpatient

LPN 3.5 3.5

out of 5 stars 1 Hospital Rd # C-268, Cherokee, NC 28719

Job Title:

Inpatient Behavioral Health LPN Job Code :

BHLPN Department:

Analenisgi Inpatient Division :

Nursing Salary Level:

Non-Exempt 8 Reports to:

Behavioral Health Nurse Manager, Analenisgi Inpatient Nurse Supervisor Last Revised:

May 2025 Primary Function The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) delivers direct and indirect nursing care to patients across the lifespan on the Behavioral Health Inpatient Unit. Working in collaboration with Registered Nurses and under the supervision of the Behavioral Health Nurse Manager, the LPN is responsible for supporting the nursing process through participation in assessment, care planning, therapeutic interventions, medication administration, and documentation. The LPN provides trauma-informed, culturally responsive care that reflects CIHA’s mission and promotes holistic recovery. The LPN’s care contributes significantly to the physical and psychosocial wellbeing of patients and their families. Care is delivered in alignment with the cultural values of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Job Description Patient Care & Assessment Provides nursing care aligned with current clinical standards and policies. Participates in nursing assessments under RN supervision using a holistic lens (biological, psychological, social, cultural). Recognizes changes in health status and initiates timely interventions. Supports care planning efforts based on individual patient needs. Conducts behavioral health assessments including observation of affect, mood, speech, and safety risks. Participates in ongoing observation and monitoring of patients on special precautions (e.g., suicide watch, elopement risk). Planning & Implementation Collaborates with RNs to develop measurable, time-bound patient goals. Implements interventions based on individualized care plans. Provides health education and behavioral support to patients and families. Revises care plans in collaboration with the RN based on patient progress and condition changes. Supports therapeutic group activities and milieu management. Medication & Documentation Administers medications per protocol; observes for side effects and adverse reactions. Documents medication administration, assessments, interventions, and outcomes accurately and timely. Reports medication errors promptly and follows required procedures. Accurately scores and documents standardized assessments (e.g., CIWA-Ar, COWS, Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale). Leadership & Coordination Provides guidance and direction to CNAs and Behavioral Health Techs within scope. Delegates appropriately under RN supervision and based on staff competency. Coordinates referrals to internal and community support services. Promotes patient advocacy, confidentiality, and trauma-informed approaches. Quality & Safety Maintains a clean, safe, and therapeutic environment. Adheres to infection control procedures, OSHA guidelines, and universal precautions. Participates in audits, safety inspections, and risk management activities. Ensures proper functioning of equipment and availability of supplies. Professional Development Maintains required licensure and certifications through continuing education. Attends mandatory trainings and participates in performance evaluations. Serves on unit committees and contributes to improvement initiatives. Education/Experience Graduate of an accredited Practical Nursing program. Current unrestricted LPN license in North Carolina or compact state. Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required; CPI preferred, or must be obtained within 6 months of hire. Two years’ experience in behavioral health preferred but not required. Valid Driver’s License. Job Knowledge Demonstrates understanding of trauma-informed care and therapeutic boundaries. Skilled in de-escalation techniques and crisis intervention. Familiar with psychiatric diagnoses, symptoms, and behavioral interventions. Knowledge of cultural, spiritual, and community context of Cherokee and tribal populations. Competent in using medical and monitoring equipment. Understands principles of teaching, counseling, and behavioral health education. Proficient in documentation systems and legal/ethical standards of care. Complexity of Duties Under the direction and supervision of a Registered Nurse, the Licensed Practical Nurse participates in the full nursing process by contributing to assessments, assisting in the development of care plans, administering medications, operating specialized medical equipment, and evaluating the plan of care to ensure that the physical and psychosocial needs of the patient are met. The LPN must recognize and respond appropriately to patient conditions that deviate from normal and use clinical judgment to identify, analyze, and report on causative factors and reactions. While professional standards, nursing policies, standing orders, and hospital procedures guide practice, independent judgment is often required when these do not specifically address a situation. The LPN collaborates with RNs and clinical leaders when addressing complex or atypical patient care scenarios. Supervision Received The Licensed Practical Nurse works under the direct supervision and delegation of a Registered Nurse. The LPN follows established care plans, communicates with supervising RNs about patient conditions and concerns, and participates in shift planning and problem-solving under the guidance of the Behavioral Health Nurse Manager or designee. Work is reviewed for clinical soundness, compliance with policy, and adherence to professional standards. Responsibility for Accuracy The LPN is responsible for accurate and timely documentation of care and communication with the treatment team. Performance has a direct impact on the quality of patient care, safety, and outcomes. Errors in documentation, assessment, or medication administration can negatively affect patient recovery and overall unit function. Contact with Others This position requires regular contact with patients, families, nursing staff, and interdisciplinary team members. Effective communication, active listening, and conflict resolution skills are essential to coordinate care, support patient recovery, and maintain therapeutic relationships within the behavioral health setting. Confidential Data The LPN has access to confidential patient health information and is required to maintain privacy in accordance with HIPAA and the Privacy Act. Any breach of confidentiality may result in disciplinary action, as this role involves sensitive medical and personal data. Mental/Visual/Physical Requirements The role involves frequent walking, standing, lifting, and physical assistance with patient movement. The LPN must be able to lift or move items over 15 pounds and maintain alertness and responsiveness throughout their shift in a potentially high-stress environment. Environment The Behavioral Health Unit may expose staff to infectious diseases, emotional distress, and psychiatric emergencies, including verbal or physical aggression. LPNs must maintain composure, utilize de-escalation techniques, and respond appropriately to ensure safety for themselves, patients, and others. Customer Service Consistently demonstrates superior customer service skills to patients/customers by demonstrating characteristics that align with CIHA’s guiding principles and core values. Ensure excellent customer service is provided to all patients/customers by seeking out opportunities to be of service.