LPN (Casual) - T11 Trauma, UPMC

UPMC Altoona is seeking a casual Licensed Practical Nurse to support the T11 Trauma unit! The LPN functions as a member of the nursing team in providing direct patient care and other related activities in accordance with level of education. They are responsible to the registered nurse for the environmental and physical management of patients to which assigned and for factual observation and the reporting and recording of same. Administers oral and intravenous medication when assigned by registered nurse in charge. Assists patients in developing their capacities and resolving their specific problem(s).

Responsibilities:

Prepares patients for meals and nourishment; serves and collects trays; feeds or assists with feedings as directed, including tube feedings; provides fresh water and between meal nourishment. Performs other assigned work such as cleaning utility room cupboards; collecting and bagging soiled linen; cleaning, sterilizing, and storing instruments and equipment. Assists patients with toileting; collects and labels specimens for examination. Assists patients in and out of bed in turning, lifting, positioning, and ambulating. Understands the special needs of patients with co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse), and utilizes appropriate assessment and intervention techniques. Observes, reports, and documents all unusual symptoms, condition changes, and care delivered as directed according to the unit policies. Provides for recreational and/or diversional activities for patients as directed. Assists in the direct care of patients as assigned. Responds effectively in emergency situations Adheres to universal precautions. Complies with established occupational exposure policies. Utilizes restraints and protective mechanisms as directed when necessary and completes appropriate documentation.

When assigned medication administration:

Handles and stores medications following established procedures. Cleans and cares for medication cart and supplies. Keeps team leader informed of problems, observations, and reactions involving medication administration. Prepares and administers oral, intravenous, intra-muscular, subcutaneous, rectal, vaginal, topical, and ocular medications as ordered by a licensed physician or dentist under the direct supervision and responsibility of a registered nurse. Demonstrates knowledge of medications and IV therapy administration according to policy. Count narcotic drug at end of shift with registered nurse and/or licensed practical nurse. Administers PRN medications following assessment by registered nurse. Follows procedure accurately for recording all data involving medication administration. Follows Standards of Practice for use of Pyxis System. Answers nurse call system and responds appropriately in a timely manner. Escorts patients to and from designated departments or divisions. Maintains patient's room and its equipment in an orderly fashion; terminal cleaning of patient unit and equipment in the absence of the environmental service aides. Assists the registered nurse in the admission of patients and orients patients to their surroundings as directed. Transfers patients and assists registered nurse in discharging patients, as directed. Admits, orients, and transfers patient according to established policies. Assists other members of the health care team as directed. Cares for patients in a manner conducive to their safety and comfort; adheres to instructions from registered nurse and established routines. Gives treatment as assigned by team leader/charge nurse such as catheterizations, catheter irrigations and care; oral, tracheal, and nasal suctioning; enemas; dressing changes; perineal care; etc., in accordance with level of training. Assists with other procedures as directed.