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DB
Discovery Behavioral Health
LVN/LPN
Career Insights for Licensed Practical / Vocational Nurse
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Scorecard
Based on Texas data
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What they do
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.
$53,065 / year median in Texas
+13% projected growth
Job Description
Position Summary:
The LVN/LPN provides compassionate, patient-centered nursing care to individuals experiencing addiction, eating disorders, and co-occurring mental health conditions. Working under the supervision of a Registered Nurse or licensed provider, the LVN/LPN supports safe medication administration, monitors patient health status, and contributes to a collaborative, multidisciplinary treatment environment. This role is essential in promoting patient safety, dignity, and recovery across the continuum of care.Essential Job Functions:
Patient Care & Clinical Support- Provide direct nursing care to a diverse behavioral health population, fostering a safe, therapeutic, and recovery-oriented environment.
- Support patient assessments by collecting relevant clinical data within LVN/LPN scope of practice.
- Perform vital signs, basic assessments, and approved procedures to monitor patient health and inform care planning.
- Observe, document, and promptly report changes in mental status, physical condition, or safety risks.
- Respond appropriately to emergencies and escalate concerns to licensed providers as needed. Medication Administration & Management
- Administer medications as prescribed, including PRNs, in accordance with scope of practice and organizational policy.
- Document medication administration, patient response, and effectiveness within required timelines.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date Medication Administration Records (MAR).
- Perform medication counts, reconciliation, and auditing processes to ensure compliance and safety.
- Enter medication orders into the electronic medical record (as directed) with accuracy and timeliness.
- Verify and secure medications brought in by patients, families, or providers in accordance with policy. Collaboration & Patient Education
- Collaborate with Registered Nurses, physicians, psychiatrists, and interdisciplinary team members to support coordinated care.
- Communicate key updates, including new admissions and changes in patient status, to appropriate team members.
- Reinforce patient education related to medication adherence and safe medication use within LVN/LPN scope. Documentation & Compliance
- Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant clinical documentation using approved terminology and standards.
- Document incidents, medication errors, and safety concerns in alignment with organizational protocols.
- Adhere to all state, federal, and organizational regulations, including privacy and confidentiality requirements.
- Follow all policies, procedures, and compliance standards, including the Code of Conduct and Corporate Compliance Policy. Professional Practice
- Deliver care using the nursing process (data collection, planning, implementation, evaluation) under RN or provider supervision.
- Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and accountability in all aspects of the role.