LPN, Wilkes-Barre Hospice Center (PT, Days, 32 hours per pay)

Description

GENERAL SUMMARY :

Under the direction of the Clinical Director and / or Registered Nurse, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides direct nursing care to patients and performs a variety of indirect patient care duties. This position is responsible for identifying patient / family needs, and coordinating the care for the patient / family. As part of the Hospice Interdisciplinary Team (IDT), the LPN contributes and follows an individualized plan of care. The LPN utilizes monitoring, intervention and teaching skills to maximize patient comfort and enhance the quality of life for the patient / family unit.

This position pledges to make the comfort and care of patients and families the highest priority; consistently provide a high level of personalized, sincere and engaging service to patients and families at all times; ensure the complete satisfaction of patients and families; promptly and effectively address all concerns.

Type of supervision exercised : none. Jobs reporting to this position : none.

EDUCATION :

Graduate of an accredited Licensed Practical Nurse Program required.

WORK EXPERIENCE :

Has minimum of two years general nursing experience. Hospice experience preferred.

Experience with pain and symptom management interventions preferred.

Ability to work within an interdisciplinary setting.

Understanding of Hospice philosophy, principles of death / dying.

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).

Functions independently, but seeks and accepts guidance from other members of the IDT and members of the community, as deemed necessary and appropriate.

Conducts all business activities in a professional and ethical manner.

Demonstrates the highest degree of customer awareness by seeking opportunities to identify and meet the needs of internal and external customers.

Treats each person as an individual with respect and dignity.

Is receptive to questions and criticism, and willing to offer assistance.

Demonstrates genuine concern and empathy.

Maintains accountability for patient satisfaction throughout the episode of care.

Displays a willingness to utilize problem-solving techniques to ensure appropriate interventions and resolutions.

Must maintain a professional attitude and demeanor and be able to communicate effectively and relate courteously and cooperatively with patients, caregivers, colleagues, supervisors, co-workers and all others.

Must be able to demonstrate optimism, enthusiasm and willingness to work constructively with other health care team members and reflect concern for the well-being of patients and employees.

Interacts with all staff in a positive fashion supporting the mission and vision of the organization.

Visual / hearing ability must be sufficient to comprehend written / verbal communication.

Needs excellent verbal communication skills.

Able to effectively manage stress.

Possess Manual dexterity sufficient for writing, keyboarding and telephone operation

Must maintain confidentiality of patient information.

Consistently performs all of the above in a friendly, courteous manner.

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. Must be able to travel to patient's homes if necessary.

ACCIDENT OR HEALTH HAZARDS :

Occasional exposure to blood and body substances.

Exposure to needle sticks possible.

WORKING CONDITIONS :

Works in a state-of-the-art hospice inpatient unit. May work in varying conditions in patient homes (where conditions may be less than desirable).