Job Listing
Psychiatric Licensed Practical Nurse
Company:
Douglas County
Industry:
Healthcare
Job title:
Psychiatric Licensed Practical Nurse
Job level:
Mid
Job description:
Primary Function:
Under the direction of the Director of Nursing, Nurse Manager, supervising psychiatric registered nurse, or designee, the incumbent provides professional psychiatric nursing care to acutely and chronically ill patients and assists supervisor in providing direction and training to other Community Mental Health Center (CMHC) staff. Incumbent performs duties in accordance with CMHC policies and state and federal statutes and regulations. The incumbent collaborates with the registered nurse when making decisions.
Douglas County is an EOE – Disability/Veterans
Salary Range: $ 31.07 – 39.26 /hr
Essential Functions:
*Review treatment plan with supervising Psychiatric Registered Nurse, implement instructions, processes and protocols; and assist with ongoing patient assessment and reevaluation of patient problems or needs.
*Collect clinical data, record and report changes in patient conditions to the Psychiatric Registered Nurse. *Prioritize data collection based on patient’s immediate condition or needs. Data includes, but is not limited to, observations and assessments of biophysical, psychosocial, environmental, progress status, educational and discharge planning, etc.).
*Observe assigned patients on a daily basis to identify and document physical and emotional status and/or patterns, such as assaultive or suicidal behavior and response to treatment or medication. Assists with patient assessments as directed by supervisor.
*Administer medication therapy and treatment regimes as directed; monitor patient response to medication documenting observations; and educate patients on the purpose, dosage and side effects of medication. Assist patients in complying with their treatment regime.
*Provide quality care based on the whole person, including health, nutrition, and clothing needs, recognizing each patient’s individuality and need for specialized treatment.
*Provide care in a non-judgmental, non-discriminatory manner that is sensitive to the patient’s and family’s diversity, preserving their autonomy, dignity and rights.
*Accompany physicians on rounds, assisting physicians with examinations and ordered treatments.
*Educate patients, staff and, family members regarding overall treatment, nursing plans and related patient care issues directed towards awareness and understanding of health/mental health issues.
*Ensure cleanliness of equipment and environment.
*Provide general direction to psychiatric technicians.
*Participate in or lead individual or group counseling sessions, family conferences, and recreational and social therapy sessions to assist patients in understanding the nature of emotional and physical problems and need for treatment.
*Admit patients to inpatient units after the registered nurse has completed the physical assessment. Obtain medical, psychiatric, social and family histories of new admissions. Obtain and record vital signs, obtain lab specimens, schedule applicable tests, and perform basic procedures such as catheterizations, respiratory therapy, blood draws, etc.
*Provide information and education to the patient and to the patient’s family to decrease fear and barriers in the acceptance of psychiatric care and continuation of treatment.
*Conduct and communicate shift-change reports ensuring continuity of patient care.
*Recognize and intervene when a patient is experiencing an acute episode. Provide crisis intervention ensuring patient and staff safety and security while complying with CMHC procedures and protocols.
*Assist patients in obtaining proper follow up during acute hospitalization and at the time of discharge by identifying community agencies and resources to assist patients and their families with the stabilization of living in the community.
*Recognize that individuals with co-occuring disorders are expected, not the exception, and are welcome into treatment.
*Participate in departmental and/or team meetings to discuss patient care and progress as well as policies and procedures.
*Maintain current competency in psychiatric/mental health nursing care and specific nursing procedures.
*Adhere to CMHC departmental procedures on handling, use, and disposal of hazardous chemicals and infectious materials.
Qualifications:
*Must be a Licensed Practical Nurse with current nursing license from Nebraska or a compact state recognized by the Nebraska Board of Nursing at the time of hire, and maintain the license in good standing throughout the course of employment. License must be held in the state of residence.
*Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.
*One year related experience in an acute care facility preferred.
*Applicants may be required to complete supplemental training/testing at the discretion of the Director of Nursing.
*Current CPR and completion of CPI training within 6 months of hire.
*Completion of a pre-employment local and national criminal records check, including fingerprinting.
*Must complete a pre-employment health review as well as a physical abilities assessment.
Positions available:
5
Posted on:
October 11, 2023