Licensed Practical Nurse

Reports To: Registered Nurse (RN), Unit Manager, or Director of Nursing

Department: Nursing

Employment Type: Full-time

 

Job Summary

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides skilled nursing care to patients under the direction of a Registered Nurse (RN) or Physician. The LPN is responsible for administering medications, performing treatments, monitoring patient health, and supervising nursing assistants. This role requires a blend of clinical technical skills and compassionate patient engagement to ensure high-quality care and safety.

 

Key Responsibilities

1. Clinical Care & Treatment

• Administer medications (oral, topical, intramuscular, subcutaneous) according to physician orders and safety protocols.
• Perform wound care, dressing changes, and skin assessments.
• Insert and care for urinary catheters and nasogastric tubes (as permitted by state practice act).
• Perform respiratory treatments (e.g., nebulizers, suctioning) and tracheostomy care.
• Collect biological specimens for laboratory testing (blood, urine, sputum).

 

2. Assessment & Monitoring

• Monitor and record vital signs, pain levels, and fluid intake/output.
• Conduct focused patient assessments and report abnormal findings or changes in condition to the supervising RN or physician immediately.
• Monitor patients for reactions to medications or treatments.

 

3. Documentation & Communication

• Maintain accurate and timely medical records in the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system.
• Receive and verify physician orders.
• Communicate clearly with patients and families regarding care plans, medication instructions, and disease management.
• Participate in shift change reports to ensure continuity of care.

 

4. Supervision & Teamwork

• Supervise and delegate appropriate tasks to Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) or Patient Care Technicians (PCTs).
• Assist the RN in the development and implementation of patient care plans.
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team (physical therapy, dietary, social work) to meet patient goals.

 

Qualifications

Education & Licensure:

• Required: Graduate of an accredited School of Practical Nursing.
• Required: Current, unrestricted LPN license in the state of practice.
• Required: Current Basic Life Support (BLS) / CPR certification (AHA preferred).
• Preferred: IV Therapy Certification (if applicable/allowed in your state).

Experience:

[Insert specific requirement, e.g., “1+ year of experience in Long Term Care preferred,” or “New graduates welcome to apply”].

 

Key Skills

• Clinical Proficiency: Solid understanding of nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, and infection control.
• Critical Thinking: Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment and recognize emergencies.
• Attention to Detail: Precision in medication administration and documentation.
• Interpersonal Skills: Ability to comfort distressed patients and lead CNAs effectively.

 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for the majority of the shift (8–12 hours).
• Ability to push/pull medical carts and lift/transfer patients (up to 50 lbs unassisted).
• Manual dexterity for handling medical instruments and performing procedures.
• Work Environment
• Clinical settings such as Hospitals, Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF), Clinics, or Home Health.
• Exposure to biological hazards and infectious diseases (PPE provided).
• Must be available to work rotating shifts, including weekends and holidays.