Licensed Practical Nurse - LPN LVN - Dialysis

Purpose and Scope

Functions as part of the home therapy health care team in providing safe and effective dialysis therapy for patients under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse. Participates in the implementation and evaluation of patient care.

Principal Responsibilities and Duties

• Under the direction of a Registered Nurse, provides direct patient care for assigned patients in compliance with physician orders, state nurse practice laws, company policies and procedures and all pertinent regulatory requirements.
• Administers intravenous medication in accordance with physician orders and state nurse practice laws.
• Assists Home Therapy RN/Coordinator in the identification, evaluation, and training of candidates for the home dialysis program.
• Responsible for accurate documentation of information related to the patients training and treatment.
• Responsible for ongoing monitoring, assessment, and intervention for home patients including home visits, clinical appointments, additional training sessions or reviews, lab studies and annual studies such as x-ray and EKG.
• Responsible for compliance with patient supply procedures, appropriate documentation and ensuring maintenance of all durable medical equipment, i.e. preventative maintenance, water analysis.
• Performs monthly chart audits and reports results to RN/Coordinator or Manager.
• Monitors the Peritonitis Rate and PET test results and reports outcomes to the attending physician(s), the Quality Assurance Committee, and Home Therapy RN/Coordinator or Manager.
• Collaborates with the physician to make changes in patient treatment plans as needed.
• Collaborates with Home Therapy RN/Coordinator or Manager and physician to schedule back-up treatments when necessary.
• Participates in education of pre-dialysis and existing ESRD patients regarding treatment options.
• Prepares home supply inventory packages and monitors for efficient use of supplies.
• Maintains current knowledge base in the operation of all dialysis related equipment utilized in the program and in the field.
• Trouble-shoots equipment problems with the patient via telephone communication and ensures appropriate resolution.
• Ensures all blood spills are immediately addressed according to FMCNA Bloodborne Pathogen Control Policies.
• Participates in staff meetings as scheduled.
• Assists in short term and long term patient care plan meetings.
• Assists with provision of educational in-services regarding home therapies to in-center staff, hospitals, or nursing programs as needed.
• Acts as a resource person for other staff members.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education

Graduate of an accredited School of Practical Nursing (LPN, LVN). Current appropriate state licensure.

Experience and Required Skills

• One year medical-surgical nursing experience preferred.
• Hemodialysis experience preferred but not required.
• ICU experience preferred but not required.
• Successfully complete a training course in the theory and practice of hemodialysis.
• Successfully complete CPR certification.
• Must complete the Nurses Technical Training Program upon hire or soon thereafter.
• Good communication skills - verbal and written.