A Licensed Practical Nurse or Vocational Nurse provides basic medical care under the direction of registered nurses and other healthcare specialists. The tasks that they are permitted to perform vary by state, but usually include changing bandages, checking blood pressure, or helping feed patients. May work in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare facilities.
Director of Nursing (DON) Position Summary The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) practices in accordance with the philosophy, policies, and procedures of the community under the direction of the Director of Nursing (DON). The LPN may assume the responsibilities of charge nurse as assigned and supervises, assigns, and directs staff according to their respective job descriptions. The LPN assists the DON with nursing responsibilities and tasks and administers medications in accordance with physician orders and community policy. Performance Standards (May include, but are not limited to:) Provides orientation, supervision, and guidance to Resident Assistants (RA) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA). Assists in the implementation of resident service plans and provides additional information as needed for resident care planning. Assists RA and CNA staff with the implementation of resident service plans. Provides or assists with direct resident care, including Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), when needed to ensure resident safety, dignity, and quality of care. Oversees the provision of assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) for residents whose service plans indicate the need. Oversees the administration of medications for residents whose service plans indicate the need. Documents all medications administered in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) Medication Administration Record (MAR) and ensures medications are administered according to physician orders including the correct resident, medication, dosage, route, and time. Coordinates medication administration, medication reordering, and medication reconciliation to ensure continuity and accuracy of resident medication management. Communicates pertinent resident information to co-workers during shift changes and when leaving the unit. Assumes responsibility for quality resident care and seeks guidance from the DON when necessary. Conducts initial assessments of prospective residents including evaluation of services needed, care approaches, frequency, duration, and expected outcomes to determine appropriateness for admission. Completes required resident assessments in accordance with Illinois regulations including annual assessments, cognitive assessments, fall risk assessments, elopement risk assessments, and tuberculosis (TB) screening. Maintains monthly progress notes for each resident as required by applicable regulations and community policy. Documents vital signs and resident weights and monitors residents for changes in condition. Maintains accurate and complete medical records including medication reconciliation and updates to resident service plans as needed. Supervises CNA and RA staff during assigned shifts to ensure resident care is provided safely and in accordance with service plans and community policies. Communicates with families, Power of Attorney (POA), and physicians regarding incidents, falls, or significant changes in a resident's condition as appropriate. Observes the productivity of other staff members (dining, housekeeping, laundry, and resident care) and provides direction as needed to maintain productivity and resident care standards. Ensures evening security systems are engaged and checks facility doors during the shift as required. Responds promptly to emergency calls from residents when on duty. Welcomes new residents and orients them to the community and resident care services available. Assists in evaluating residents' appropriateness for the community with regard to safety and comfort within an assisted living environment. Addresses family concerns, mediates or intervenes as appropriate, and communicates concerns to the DON. Monitors residents for changes in cognitive or behavioral status and communicates findings to the DON and appropriate members of the care team. Attends and participates in required in-services, training sessions, and mandatory staff meetings. Working Conditions Sits, bends, lifts, and moves intermittently throughout working hours. May be required to work beyond normal hours and rotate weekends and holidays as needed or requested. Position Requirements Must hold a current Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in the State of Illinois. Supervising staff and demonstrating leadership abilities. Assessing health care needs. Assessing resident care needs. Establishing and implementing plans to meet resident needs. Effective communication skills, both written and verbal. Maintaining positive interpersonal relationships. Attending continuing education courses as required. Scheduling and supervising staff.
