Licensed Practical Nurse

Job descriptionOverall Purpose of JobThe Psychiatric LPN will assume responsibility for assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating direct and indirect clinical care to patients. She/ he will competently function as a member of the interdisciplinary team to provide patient and community-centered care. She/he serves as an advocate for the patient and their family and intercedes on their behalf by acting as a liaison for patients and their families with respect to their rights and beliefs.Key ResponsibilitiesLPN(s) must be licensed by the West Virginia State Board of Examiners for Licensed Practical Nurses and have no record of prior or pending disciplinary action against him or her by the licensure body or agency. West Virginia is a member of the National Council of State Board of Nursing and participates in the multistate Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC).LPN(s) assigned to one of the acute care psychiatric facilities must have a minimum of one (1) year experience and working knowledge of the concepts of mental health, health disorders and related physical conditions and related treatment approach.Key ResponsibilitiesLPN(s) must assist professional nursing & medical staff in providing direct nursing care to patients, including medical treatments, administering medications, giving injections, assisting in care planning and recording, and such other services within the scope of the LPN(s) license. Performs history and physical assessment, behavioural health care support, minor outpatient procedures, patient education, and refers any care beyond the scope of the medical unit to offsite facilities.LPN(s) must take and record temperatures, blood pressure, pulse and respirations; collect specimens for testing; administer medications according to the Physician Order; and perform such other services requested within the scope of the LPN(s) license.LPN(s) must ensure timely documentation into patients’ electronic medical records, per the policies, procedures and common practices of the assigned facility to be discussed in detail during the hospital/facility orientation.Key ResponsibilitiesLPN(s) will provide for the emotional and physical comfort and safety of the patients/clients.LPN(s) must assist in response to medical and psychiatric emergencies.LPN(s) must communicate with physicians for patient care regimen in order to meet patient care needs.LPN(s) must assist patients with activities of daily living such as grooming and personal hygiene.LPN(s) must testify in court and commitment hearing when found appropriate and deemed necessary. The psychiatric physician must be present and available to testify as necessary and LPN(s) must be available to appear and testify.