Position Summary The Home Health Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse is responsible for modeling the Compassus values of Compassion, Integrity, Excellence, Teamwork, and Innovation and for promoting the Compassus philosophy, using the 6 Pillars of Success as the foundation. S/he is responsible for upholding the Code of Ethical Conduct and for promoting positive working relationships within the company, among all departments, and all external stakeholders. The Home Health Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse administers skilled nursing care to patients on an intermittent basis in their place of residence. This is performed in accordance with physician orders and plan of care under the direction and supervision of the Home Health Registered Nurse Case Manager. S/he services are furnished in accordance with agency policies.
Position Specific Responsibilities
Implements/follows the nursing care plan for each patient.
Provides nursing services, treatments, and diagnostic and preventive procedures as assigned.
Initiates preventive and rehabilitative nursing procedures as appropriate.
Observes signs and symptoms and reports to the physician and Registered Nurse Case Manager (RNCM) reactions to treatments, including drugs and changes in the patient's physical or emotional condition.
Teaches and counsels the patient and family/significant others regarding the nursing care needs and other related problems of the patient at home.
Evaluates with the Home Health RNCM the effectiveness of the LP/VN's nursing service to the patient and family under the guidance of the RNCM.
Maintains accurate and complete records of observation, treatments, and care of patients.
Participates in medical record audits as assigned.
Attends staff meetings, patient care conferences, and in-services as scheduled.
Is responsible for submitting any changes in schedule to the Director of Clinical Services/Clinical Supervisor on a daily basis; participating in patient care conferences to discuss the need for involvement of other members of the health team, such as physical and speech therapists.
Prepares clinical and progress notes and submits them within 24 hours of visit.
Assists the physician and Home Health RNCM in performing specialized procedures.
Prepares equipment and materials for treatments.
Observes aseptic techniques as required.
Assists in patient learning and appropriate self-care techniques.
Ensures that all care is provided with respect for patient rights.
Reports all grievances and complaints made by patients or families to the appropriate persons.
Reports all allegations of patient abuse and/or misappropriation of patient's property as appropriate.
Follows standard precautions and infection control procedures.
Reports all accidents and incidents observed.
Identifies and responds appropriately to emergency situations.
Observes the safety needs of the patients.
Provides documentation of patient's visit on the clinical record accurately, timely, and appropriately per agency policies.
Develops treatment appropriate to patients' disease progression in conjunction with the Home Health RNCM.
Addresses patients' care needs with families and significant others as appropriate.
Maintains confidentiality of necessary information.
Maintains proper documentation for billing per policy.
Interfaces with patients, families, and staff to ensure customer satisfaction.
Communicates effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare providers.
Regular attendance is an essential function.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Education And/or Experience
Certificate of an accredited program of Practical or Vocational Nursing as approved by the state required.
Two (2) years of experience as an LPN in a clinical care setting preferred.
Experience in skilled nursing, preferably in hospice, home health care, oncology or emergency care preferred.
Skills
Mathematical Skills: Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percentage.
Language Skills: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from leaders, team members, investors, and external parties. Strong written and verbal communications.
Other Skills and Abilities: Ability to understand, read, write, and speak English. Articulates and embraces hospice philosophy.
Certifications, Licenses, and Registrations
Active and unencumbered Licensed Practical Nurse or Licensed Vocational Nurse in the state(s) of employment required.
Physical Demands and Work Environment: The demands of this role necessitate a team member to effectively perform essential functions. Adaptations can be made to accommodate team members with disabilities. Regular standing, walking, and manual dexterity are fundamental, along with the ability to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds. Visual acuity requirements include close and distance vision, color and peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. In a healthcare setting, exposure to bodily fluids, infectious diseases, and conditions typical to the field is expected. Routine use of standard medical equipment and tools associated with clinical care is essential. This description provides a general overview and may vary by role and department, capturing the nuanced demands and conditions inherent to clinical positions in our organization.
At Compassus, including all Compassus affiliates, diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to our Pillars of Success. We are committed to creating a fair work environment where our team members feel welcomed, highly valued, and respected. As an equal opportunity employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.