Licensed Practical Nurse - Med/Surg PRN

**Position summary: Provides nursing care of patients during hospitalization, in support of medical care as directed by Medical Staff, within the scope of the Missouri Nurse Practice Act, and pursuant to objectives, goals, policies and philosophy of the nursing department and the hospital. General purpose: Provides total nursing care for patients in instances when the constant attention of a Registered Professional Nurse is not required. - Provides care in a non-judgmental, non-discriminatory manner that is sensitive to the pediatric, adult or elderly patient's and family's diversity; preserving their autonomy, dignity and rights - Assesses, plans, implements and evaluates the patients' needs in relation to the care plan as assigned - Ensures continuity in administering the patient care plan for each patient assigned. - Coordinates and manages direct patient care as assigned - Evaluates, records and communicates to the proper member of the health care team the patient's physical, emotional, spiritual, social and economic needs - Administers medications as allowed by hospital policy and Nurse Practice Act - Observes, records and reports to physician the condition of the patient, reactions to drugs and treatment and significant incidents - Maintains patient's medical record on nursing observations, action taken, medications administered and results obtained - Acts as liaison between patient, family, physician, hospital, personnel and community agencies - Reports patient condition to appropriate nursing personnel throughout and at completion of each shift - Performs the nursing procedures required for the physical and emotional comfort and safety of the patient - Performs therapeutic measures prescribed and delegated by Medical Staff - Offers emotional support to the patient's family as needed - Expresses interest in patients' progress, and explains procedures and treatments ordered - Assists in emergency situations - Regards patient charts and activities as confidential - Education - Graduate of accredited school of practical nursing Experience - Medical-Surgical experience preferred, but not required - Open to Graduate Practical Nurses ** Licenses/Certificate - Current Missouri State Licensure - Current Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) - Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), preferred, but not required - Leadership: - Displays professional judgment and sound mental attitude - Assists in maintaining a comfortable, orderly, safe and clean environment for patients, visitors and co-workers - Conducts himself or herself at all times so as to reflect credit on the profession and the hospital - Exhibits sound judgment in all aspects of work - Functions as charge nurse as needed under the supervision of a Registered Nurse Education: - Is familiar with hospital and nursing service policies and procedures - Assists in patient education including the promotion of physical and mental health - Teaches and directs other nursing personnel when necessary - Continues formal or informal self-education, participates in in-service programs and applicable learning experiences provided by the Director of Nursing and others in the hospital setting - Maintains current competency in medical-surgical nursing - Displays a working knowledge of equipment used in the care of patients Other: - Maintains a good public image of the unit, and the hospital as a whole, when dealing with customers, both internal and external - Practices good personal health habits - Performs related duties as required Essential skills and experience: - Basic computer literacy - Strong interpersonal and communication skills