JOB SUMMARY

A Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) provides skilled practical nursing care and supportive services to terminally ill patients and their families in their place of residence. Operating under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) Case Manager and the physician, the Hospice LVN focuses on executing the Plan of Care, administering palliative treatments, managing symptoms, and providing emotional support during the end-of-life process.

QUALIFICATIONS

Graduate of an accredited school of vocational/practical nursing and currently licensed as an LVN/LPN in the state(s) in which practicing. Minimum of one (1) year of nursing experience, with hospice, palliative care, oncology, or home health experience strongly preferred. Acceptance of and commitment to the hospice philosophy and the goals of this Agency. Ability to exercise compassion and clinical judgment within the vocational nursing scope of practice in high-stress or emotional environments. Valid driver's license and reliable transportation with required auto insurance.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Provides direct hospice nursing care in strict accordance with the individualized Plan of Care established by the RN and Interdisciplinary Group (IDG). Observes, monitors, and evaluates the patient's physical and emotional status, promptly reporting any significant changes in condition or terminal status to the supervising RN or Clinical Manager. Administers prescribed medications, treatments, and palliative interventions focused on comfort and symptom relief (e.g., pain, dyspnea, nausea). Assists the RN with specialized nursing procedures and performs practical nursing skills (e.g., wound care, catheter care, vital signs) within the state's defined LVN scope of practice. Reinforces education and counseling previously initiated by the RN to the patient and family/caregivers regarding the dying process, medication administration, and comfort measures. Prepares accurate, detailed clinical and progress notes for each visit and submits documentation in a timely manner as per Agency policy. Communicates regularly with the RN Case Manager to collaborate on necessary revisions to the Plan of Care based on patient needs. Ensures necessary medical supplies, equipment, and symptom-management kits (comfort packs) are available in the patient's home. Participates in IDG care conferences to provide updates on patient status and contribute to care planning. Provides total hands-on patient care and physical support with activities of daily living as needed during the end-of-life stages. Participates in quality assessment and performance improvement (QAPI) and in-service programs. May participate in an on-call rotation for nights, weekends, and holidays to perform routine or emergent visits as directed by the on-call RN triage team.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Works indoors in patient homes, assisted living facilities, or nursing homes, and travels locally between patient residences in various weather and traffic conditions.

JOB RELATIONSHIPS

Supervised by: Registered Nurse (RN) Case Manager / Director of Clinical Services /

Clinical Manager Workers Supervised:

None directly, though may provide operational guidance to Hospice Aides / Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) present in the home.

RISK EXPOSURE

High risk (exposure to bloodborne pathogens, infectious diseases, and emotional stress associated with end-of-life care).

LIFTING REQUIREMENTS

Ability to perform the following tasks if necessary: Ability to participate in physical activity and patient positioning. Ability to work for extended periods while standing, walking, and assisting with transfers. Heavy lifting (ability to assist with turning, repositioning, and transferring bedbound patients safely using proper body mechanics). Ability to do frequent bending, lifting, and standing on a regular basis.

Pay:

From $40.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person