LVN

SUMMARY:

The Licensed Psychiatric Technician/Licensed Vocational Nurse helps care for physically or mentally ill individuals in a 24/7 mental health setting. Applies specialty knowledge to participate in both the planning and implementation of individual patient treatment plans. This may include providing medication support as directed by a licensed psychiatrist and under the supervision of a licensed registered nurse.

JOB DUTIES:

• Provides effective client care and vocational nursing duties and, as required, monitors and charts vital signs; administers medications and treatments as ordered by physicians; notifies supervisor and/or physicians of any changes in client conditions
• Performs blood glucose tests; fills out nursing observation sheets and reports
• Perform duties as treatment nurse, including evaluating, cleansing and dressing wounds in accordance with Physicians orders, as needed
• Carries out first aid measures in accordance with American Heart Associations First Aid Guidelines and departmental protocols under the supervision of the RN. Consults RN supervisor for level of care decisions
• Utilizes Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in situations where a client is medically or mentally unstable and requires a higher level of care per department protocol
• Documents information on implementation of care, completes Specialized Incident Reports (SIRs) and submits to appropriate reporting staff to report to Community Care Licensing (CCL)
• Background Assessment Recommendation (SBAR) format
• Maintains client charts and prepares comprehensive, accurate and timely documentation of all medications and treatments administered; implements oral and written orders received from physicians
• Reviews Psychotropic Medication Authorization completed by physician for accuracy and completes Order Regarding Application for Psychotropic Medication (Form JV-223) in accordance with legal requirements and sends/faxes to appropriate courts for approval
• Verifies medication orders written by providers, sends/faxes orders to Pharmacy, verifies correct medication and transcribes medication to Medication Administration Record. Double checks all orders with a second licensed nurse
• Contacts and clarifies with prescribing physician if there are any discrepancies, or illegible orders
• Responsible for safely administering medications using the six medication rights and verifying patient by using two identifiers
• Administration of oral, sublingual, intramuscular, subcutaneous, intradermal, ophthalmic, optic, topical and inhalation medications as ordered by physicians
• Orders monthly cycle medication from Pharmacy, checks each individual medication card against Medication Administration Record for Accuracy and safety, using the six Rights to medication administration with a second licensed staff
• Assists in the recording and monitoring of controlled medication by properly keeping them in a locked cabinet inside the medication cart and following destruction laws in accordance with regulatory agencies, FDA and DEA and departmental policy.
• Receives and responds to client/family member inquiries through clients child advocate about concerns regarding clients care with regard to medical, dental and specialty care
• Implements teaching plan created by RN and routinely screens clients for side effects, adverse reactions or contraindications
• Assist in scheduling psychiatrist and other needed medical appointments; tracks and coordinates appointments; creates, organizes and keeps client charts up to date including EHR and other department paperwork; other clerical duties as assigned
• Performs other reasonable related duties as assigned

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

In the course of performing this job, the incumbent typically spends time standing, walking on sloped/hilly areas of campus, climbing stairs, carrying, driving, lifting (up to 40 pounds), listening, speaking, reaching, writing, and participating in restraint procedures.

• Valid Licensed Psychiatric Technician (LPT) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) issued by the State of California
• The ability to work some nights/weekends and holidays is required
• Knowledge of medical, nursing, and mental health terminology, especially relating to psychiatric medication
• Experience with SED children and adolescents preferred
• Experience in a mental health facility preferred
• Knowledge of mental health and community resources
• Ability to work effectively with diverse client populations and amongst a diverse staff
• Proficient computer skills in Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, etc.)
• Maintain CPR, First Aid and Therapeutic Crisis Intervention Certifications
• Valid California Drivers License and proof of Auto Insurance required
• Must fulfill all requirements of employment, including clearance of all required background records (e.g. Department of Justice, Child Abuse, California Community Care Licensing, County Sanction List, etc.), physical examination, and drug testing