GENERAL SUMMARY:

The Licensed Practical Nurse administers direct nursing care to patients and performs a variety of indirect patient care duties.

The Licensed Practical Nurse must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on his/her unit – adolescent through geriatric.  If employee is assigned as part of the Brain Injury Nursing staff, they must be able to demonstrate knowledge and skill necessary to provide care appropriate to pediatric patients. The Licensed Practical Nurse must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span; possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status; interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to the populations served by the hospital; and to provide the care needed as described in the Nursing Department's policies and procedures.

EDUCATION:

 Graduate of an accredited Licensed Practical Nurse Program required.

WORK EXPERIENCE:

 Minimum of two (2) years med-surg or rehabilitation experience preferred.

 SPECIAL EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:

 Current licensure as a Practical Nurse in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

CPR certification must be obtained and maintained.

Must be cleared by PA State Police criminal history check and PA Department of Public Welfare Child Abuse Central Register (Childline).

Must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide individualized care appropriate to the age specific need and culture of the patient served.

 PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

 Medium Work: duties require exerting 25 to 50 lbs. of force occasionally (approx 10-33% of shift), and/or 10-25lbs. of force frequently (approx 33-66% of the time), and/or greater than negligible amount up to 10 lbs. of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, and move objects.  Position involves bending, reaching, stooping and lifting (occasionally in strained position) throughout shift.  Ability to transport self throughout facility is required.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES OF JOB:

Under the supervision of a Clinical Nurse Manager or Nursing Supervisor, assists with rehabilitation of patients in accordance with the interdisciplinary plan of care.  Provides morning and evening care, which may include showers, bed baths, oral hygiene, combing hair, back care, nail care, showering and dressing patients, as needed.  Provides for exceptional customer service, utilizing interpersonal communication skills and behavior management skills, including positive reinforcement.  In conjunction with the RN and CNA/NA, answers patient call lights promptly and whenever possible anticipates patient needs.  Administers medications to assigned patients (does not include IV push medications, heparin flushes, adding medications to IV's, dressing changes to any central line).

Required Skills Required Experience