Licensed Practical Nurse

Overview

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides direct physical care and implements therapeutic and medical regimens for patients. Working under the direction of a Nurse Manager or Medical Director, the LPN contributes to patient care plans, performs assessments, records medical histories, and supports physicians and nursing staff in clinical and administrative functions. Responsibilities include triaging patient calls, managing medication refills and prior authorizations, coordinating patient follow-up, and ensuring compliance with health care policies and standards. The LPN also assists in educating patients and families, handles documentation, and adheres to HIPAA guidelines to maintain patient confidentiality. The role requires strong communication, organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Demonstrated ability to work in fast-paced, multi-specialty physician practices and locations.
2. Highly-motivated team player with strong communication and interpersonal skills and an emphasis on excellent customer service in dealing with both physicians and patients.
3. Proven ability to be flexible and to learn new procedures, processes and medical specialties. Ability to train medical assistants, providing clarity and leadership.
4. Strong, accurate computer data entry skills associated with documenting medical information into electronic medical records.
5. Demonstrated communication skills both written and oral, to effectively inform and understand physician instructions and patient needs.

Preferred Skills and Abilities

1. Minimum of 2 years of experience as an LPN, preferably in a multi-specialty or outpatient clinic environment.

Principal Responsibilities

1. Obtains patient histories and medical information.
2. Assists with medical and minor surgical procedures. Assesses, reports, and records vital signs and measurements. Collects specimens.
3. Observes patients for physical or emotional changes. Reports observations.
4. Prepares examining rooms. Selects, sets up and maintains medical supplies and equipment.
5. Maintains a comfortable, orderly, safe and clean environment for patients.
6. Responds to medical emergencies. Records patient information.
7. Prepares patients for continuing care after treatment.
8. May instruct other LPNs. May serve as a source of information on nursing matters pertaining to section. May administer medications under direction and authority of professional medical staff person.
9. Schedules and coordinates patient and test appointments.
10. Performs additional functions incidental to nursing activities.

Required Education and Experience

Four years of related work experience, two of them in the same job family at the next lower level, and a high school level education; or two years of related work experience and an Associate degree; or an equivalent combination of experience and education.