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.
The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Serenity Oaks IRF provides direct patient care under the supervision of the Registered Nurse. The LPN assists in implementing nursing plans of care, administers medications within authorized scope, monitors patient status, and contributes to the delivery of safe, compassionate rehabilitation nursing care. This role supports the interdisciplinary team and plays an important role in helping patients achieve functional recovery goals during their inpatient rehabilitation stay. 2.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide direct patient care under the supervision of a Registered Nurse and within Louisiana LPN scope of practice. Administer oral, topical, and subcutaneous medications as ordered and within LPN scope; document administration accurately. Monitor patients' vital signs, intake and output, and general clinical status; report changes promptly to the supervising RN. Assist patients with ADLs including bathing, dressing, grooming, and ambulation while reinforcing rehabilitation techniques taught by therapy. Implement nursing care plan interventions as directed by the supervising RN. Perform wound care, dressing changes, and other treatments as ordered and within LPN scope. Complete nursing documentation in the EHR including nursing notes, flow sheets, and MAR entries as authorized. Assist the RN in fall prevention, pressure injury monitoring, and infection control protocol implementation. Communicate patient concerns, observations, and clinical changes to the supervising RN promptly and effectively. Provide patient and family education on basic care tasks, medication administration, and home safety under RN direction. Supervise CNAs/PCTs assigned to the unit under the direction of the RN; delegate appropriate patient care tasks. Participate in unit-based quality improvement activities. Maintain and restock nursing supplies; report equipment needs to the charge nurse or
DON. 3. EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Required:
Graduation from an approved practical nursing program leading to LPN licensure.
Preferred:
One (1) or more years of LPN experience in an acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, or post-acute nursing setting.
Preferred:
Experience with rehabilitation patient populations (neurological, orthopedic, or medically complex). 4.
Current, unrestricted Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license issued by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN).
Required:
Current BLS/CPR certification (AHA or Red Cross); must be maintained throughout employment.
Required:
Louisiana LPN license must be verified through LSBN prior to commencement of employment.
Note:
LPN practice at Serenity Oaks is performed under the supervision of a licensed RN in compliance with Louisiana Nurse Practice Act. 5.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Knowledge of practical nursing principles and patient care in an inpatient rehabilitation setting. Understanding of basic rehabilitation diagnoses and associated nursing care needs. Proficiency in medication administration within LPN scope of practice. Knowledge of wound care techniques and pressure injury prevention. Ability to accurately monitor and document vital signs and patient condition. Effective communication skills for reporting patient changes to the RN. Ability to work collaboratively within the IDT and nursing team under RN supervision. Knowledge of infection control principles and standard precautions. Ability to appropriately delegate to and supervise CNAs/PCTs. Commitment to patient dignity, safety, and person-centered care.
Benefits:
Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
