Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Job Summary: At KLS our Licensed Practical Nurse plays a crucial role in providing hands-on care, ensuring patient comfort, and supporting the overall healthcare team. It requires a combination of medical knowledge, technical skills, and empathy to meet the needs of patients. Our LPNs provide direct patient care in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and home healthcare. Our LPNs work closely with healthcare teams to monitor patient conditions, assist with treatments, and ensure the comfort and safety of patients. Their role is vital in providing compassionate care and supporting the healthcare team in delivering quality medical services.

Key Responsibilities: Patient Care:

• Monitor and record vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, temperature, respiration rate).Assist patients with daily living activities (e.g., bathing, dressing, eating).Administer prescribed medications and treatments.
• Provide basic wound care, including dressing changes and cleaning.
• Monitor patient conditions and report any changes to RNs or physicians.
• Medical Procedures:
• Assist with diagnostic tests and procedures.
• Draw blood, perform catheterizations, or assist in other minor medical procedures under supervision.
• Maintain sterile environments during procedures.
• Collect patient samples for lab tests.
• Patient Education and Support:
• Instruct patients on prescribed care, diet, medications, and physical therapy routines.
• Offer emotional support to patients and families, explaining procedures and answering questions.
• Documentation:
• Record patient health information in medical records.
• Update charts with patient conditions, treatments, and responses to care.
• Communicate important health updates to other healthcare professionals in the team.
• Collaboration and Communication:
• Work with RNs, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement patient care plans.
• Assist in care coordination and communication among the healthcare team.
• Patient Safety:
• Monitor and ensure patient safety by adhering to infection control protocols and ensuring a clean environment.
• Report any concerns about patient safety or changes in condition to supervisors immediately.
• Administrative Tasks:
• Assist in scheduling patient appointments and managing supplies.
• Maintain medical equipment and ensure it is functioning correctly.

Qualifications: Education and Licensing:

Education: Completing a state-approved LPN or LVN training program (usually a 1-year diploma or associate degree).Licensing: Must be licensed in the state where practicing (requires passing the NCLEX-PN exam).Continuing Education: Some states may require continuing education or certification renewals.

Experience: Experience may vary depending on the healthcare setting, but some employers may prefer LPNs with prior work experience in specific areas (e.g., geriatrics, pediatrics, or medical-surgical nursing).Entry-level LPNs may receive on-the-job training to familiarize themselves with specific facility protocols.

Skills: Clinical Skills: Proficiency in patient care, medical terminology, administering medications, and performing medical procedures. Communication: Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with patients, families, and the healthcare team. Attention to Detail: Ability to monitor and report on changes in patient conditions. Problem-Solving: Capability to respond appropriately in emergency situations. Compassionate Care: Empathy and understanding when caring for patients, particularly those in vulnerable or acute health conditions.

Physical Requirements: Ability to lift and move patients, stand for extended periods, and perform other physically demanding tasks.

Other Qualifications: Familiarity with medical software and patient management systems. Ability to handle confidential information with professionalism and respect. Strong organizational and time-management skills.