The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides high-quality nursing care under the direction of registered nurses (RNs) and physicians in a healthcare, long-term care, or assisted living setting. The LPN plays a vital role in ensuring residents’ or patients’ physical and emotional well-being by assisting with daily medical care, administering medications, monitoring health status, and collaborating with the healthcare team to develop and follow care plans.
Key Responsibilities:
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Patient Care:
- Provide basic nursing care, such as administering medications, performing wound care, and assisting with personal hygiene and daily activities.
- Monitor patients’ vital signs, such as blood pressure, pulse, and temperature, and report any changes in health status to the healthcare team.
- Assist in the development and implementation of individualized care plans based on patient needs and medical assessments.
- Collaborate with RNs, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.
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Medication Administration:
- Administer medications to patients as prescribed, ensuring correct dosages and timing, while monitoring for potential side effects.
- Maintain accurate medication records and follow established protocols for safe medication administration.
- Ensure medications are stored properly and securely, adhering to all safety guidelines.
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Health Monitoring and Documentation:
- Document patients’ health status, care provided, and responses to treatments in medical records in an accurate and timely manner.
- Perform regular assessments and maintain documentation of health changes, communicating effectively with the healthcare team.
- Report any signs of illness, adverse reactions, or changes in patient condition to RNs or physicians immediately.
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Patient and Family Communication:
- Provide information to patients and families regarding treatments, medications, and care plans.
- Offer emotional support and guidance to patients and their families, helping them understand the care being provided.
- Serve as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare providers to address any questions or concerns.
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Assist with Clinical Procedures:
- Assist RNs and physicians during medical procedures, dressing changes, injections, and other clinical tasks.
- Maintain a clean and safe work environment, ensuring that equipment is sanitized and in proper working order.
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Resident/Patient Support:
- Provide compassionate care to residents/patients, ensuring their comfort, dignity, and privacy are respected at all times.
- Assist patients with mobility, feeding, and other activities of daily living when necessary.
- Promote a positive, healing environment that supports the well-being of patients.
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Compliance and Safety:
- Adhere to facility policies and procedures as well as state and federal regulations regarding healthcare delivery.
- Follow infection control protocols, including proper hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and disposal of biohazard materials.
- Ensure patient safety by following safety protocols and reporting hazards or incidents promptly.
