A licensed practical nurse (LPN) is responsible for assisting physicians with patient office visits, including seating patients in rooms, interviewing patients, recording vital signs such as pulse rate, blood pressure, height, and weight. Additionally, a licensed practical nurse administers and documents medication under a physician's order. Licensed practical nurses usually work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and physician offices. LPN's interested in advancing within the nursing profession can move on to a Registered Nurse (RN).
Licensed practical nurses generally have a Bachelor's degree in Nursing along with a valid license practical nursing certification. A successful licensed practical nurse is a compassionate team player with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Observe, record, and report changes in patients' condition
- Effectively carry out medical and surgical asepsis during treatments and special procedures
- Sterilize packages and autoclaves instruments, using proper sterilization protocols
- Effectively label and process patient specimens as needed, including tracking specimens in appropriate logs
- Organize exam rooms, including general cleaning, upkeep, and re-stocking of supplies
- Communicate with patients' family or friends to provide advice, comfort and release instructions
- Administer injections, prescribed medications and clean and dress wounds and assist with other basic medical care tasks
- Demonstrates appropriate hand washing technique to ensure proper infection control and follows universal precautions
- 2+ years' nursing experience
- Current LPN license in the state
- Valid CPR certification
- Ability to assess, plan, implement and evaluate nursing care according to individual needs
- Excellent staff training and customer service skills
- Outstanding knowledge of nursing and medical terminology
- Compassionate and friendly demeanor
- Understanding of confidentiality obligations and nursing best practices
- Exceptional physical condition and stamina