Outpatient Licensed Practical Nurse - LPN - LVN

PURPOSE AND SCOPE

Functions as part of the hemodialysis health care team in providing safe and effective dialysis therapy for assigned patients under the direct supervision of a registered nurse. Participates in the implementation and evaluation of patient care. Responsible for reporting and documenting all new or unusual incidents, information, complaints, or problems to the supervisor. Promotes and assists in the maintenance of a safe and clean work environment.

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Patient Related

• Provide direct patient care for assigned patient(s).
• Perform all technical aspects of dialysis procedures for assigned patients as prescribed.
• Administer and monitor treatments in accordance with current treatment plan or as directed by the supervisor.
• Monitor and document dialysis treatment parameters on dialysis flow sheets.
• Document other information related to the care of the patient in the individual patient record.
• Responsible for reporting any significant information, change in patient condition, or equipment problems to the supervisor.
• Assist in developing and following the teaching plan to educate the patient and family regarding end stage renal disease, dialysis therapy, diet and medications.
• Assist with all emergency operational procedures.
• Administer intravenous medication in accordance with physician orders and state nurse practice laws.
• Perform and document pre, interim, and post treatment review of patient condition.
• Initiate basic CPR measures in the event of cardiac and/or pulmonary arrest, and respond to emergency situations related to dialysis treatment.

Technical

• Safely operate all dialysis related equipment according to the proper procedures.
• Provide minor troubleshooting when necessary.
• Ensure a clean, safe and sanitary environment in the dialysis facility treatment area.
• Ensure all blood spills are immediately addressed according to FMCNA Bloodborne Pathogen Control Policies.
• Operate all emergency equipment effectively in accordance to the standard operation procedures.

Staff Related

• Participate in staff meetings as scheduled.
• Assist in short term and long term patient care plan meetings.
• Acquire information and knowledge in current practice related to dialysis principals and technique by participating in scheduled in-service classes.
• Act as a resource person for other staff members.
• Assist with the coordination of the care plan with Physician, Dietitian and Social Worker.
• Other duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS

Day to day work includes desk and personal computer work and interaction with patients, facility, staff and physicians. The position provides direct patient care that regularly involves heavy lifting and moving of patients, and assisting with ambulation. This position requires frequent, prolonged periods of standing and the employee must be able to bend over. The employee may occasionally be required to move, with assistance, machines and equipment weighing up to 200lbs., and may lift chemical water solutions of up to 30lbs., up as high as 5 feet. The position requires travel between assigned facilities and various locations within the community. The work environment is characteristic of a health care facility with air temperature control and moderate noises levels. May be exposed to infectious and contagious diseases/materials.