License Practical Nurse

Role and Responsibilities

Provide basic patient care and administrative support under the supervision of a physician and/or registered nurse. Key duties include taking vital signs, documenting medical histories, administering vaccinations and medications, and performing clinical tasks like drawing blood and collecting specimens. The role also involves patient communication, education, and managing clinical and clerical duties to support office flow.

• Clinical and patient care duties

• Patient assessment: Measure and record vital signs, such as blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and respiration.

• Direct care: Administer medications via injection or orally, assist with procedures, and perform wound care.

• Specimen collection: Draw blood (phlebotomy) and collect other specimens for lab testing.

• Patient education: Educate patients and their families on medication, wound care, and other health instructions.

• Monitoring: Observe patients' conditions, record changes, and report concerns to the physician or registered nurse.

• Administrative and support duties

• Record keeping: Document patient information, medical histories, and care provided in electronic or paper medical records.

• Office management: Answer phones, schedule appointments, and manage referrals.

• Lab and supply management: Label and process specimens, sterilize instruments, and ensure equipment is ready for use.

• Patient flow: Guide patients to exam rooms, prepare them for physician visits, and assist with administrative tasks.

• Communication and teamwork

• Liaison: Serve as a communication liaison between patients, their families, and the healthcare team.

• Collaboration: Work closely with physicians, registered nurses, managers, and other staff to ensure comprehensive patient care.

• Reporting: Report on patient status and concerns to other healthcare providers.