Job Description:
- Under supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN), assists in the assessment of the physical, psychological, and social dimensions of patients in the Health Care Unit and, as necessary, in the housing units.
- Assists in planning an individual treatment program by using available resources in planning care and consults with RNs and other staff as appropriate while applying knowledge and resources in planning care and patient teaching.
- Implements individualized treatment programs as directed by the Health Care Practitioner.
- Count controlled substances, syringes, needles and sharps at the beginning of each shift with another staff member and sign count logs.
- Implements clinical and technical aspects of care in accordance with established policies, procedures and protocols. Intervenes with proper safety techniques, procedures and standard precautions.
- Responds to a code or health emergency within standard guidelines.
- Implements medical plan through administering medications in accordance with Health Care Practitioner's orders and protocols: Administers medications according to proper techniques and procedures including IV therapy (when certified) and all other approved routes of administration. Uses pharmacy knowledge and available resources to include drug reaction and overdose in administration of medications.
- Implements medical plans through obtaining diagnostic tests in accordance with Health Care Practitioner's orders and protocols: Obtains body fluid specimens and performs EKG's using proper techniques and procedures. Communicates information to ancillary departments using established referral process.
- Assists the Health Care Practitioner in medical or minor surgical procedures as necessary and/or requested to meet individual needs of patients.
- Implement nutrition and therapeutic diet plan through proper techniques and procedures as ordered by Health Care Practitioner.
- Documents nursing encounters using the SOAP form of charting as required by policy and procedure. Communicates information to nursing staff, physician, health care unit supervisory personnel and other staff as necessary. Attends mandatory staff meetings and training.
Physical Demands and Conditions: Works in a clean well-lit environment with fluctuating temperatures. Requires substantial periods of work utilizing a computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Requires lifting and carrying equipment and supplies weighing up to 35 pounds; requires pushing and pulling equipment and supplies weighing up to 75 pounds; requires walking and standing; requires sitting; requires the ability to negotiate stairs; requires the ability to lift patients in and out of bed, wheelchair, and/or stretcher; requires the ability to reach or bend frequently; requires visual acuity and manual dexterity to operate equipment. Potential for exposure to blood and/or body substances and hazardous materials requiring observance of Standard Precautions and safe handling practices. This job primarily operates independently in a facility. This job is performed in a correctional facility, client site or counseling center including minimum, medium or maximum-security levels. Employees are exposed to some level of risk and/or harm by inmates including exposure to blood borne pathogens. Employee is expected to work in accordance with all security rules and regulations to minimize the risk of danger and/or harm to themselves or other employees. This position may require travel depending on specific needs. Requirements:
- Have a current unencumbered LPN License in AR
- At least one (1) year of LPN experience in Corrections
- Have or obtain a BLS through AHA
- Willing and able to work in environment and physical conditions listed above