POSITION DESCRIPTION SECTION A: Position Identification POSITION TITLE: CLASSIFICATION Licensed Practical Nurse DEPARTMENT DIVISION Continuing Care Community Health POSITION # HR Only MANAGEMENT EXCLUDED Supervisor Client Services BARGAINING UNIT NSGEU SECTION B: Reporting Structure Your Supervisor’s Title: Supervisor of Client Services Continuing Care His/Her Supervisor’s Title: Director of Continuing Care Other positions that report to your immediate supervisor: SECTION C: Program/Functional Area This position is accountable for the standardized delivery of Continuing Care nursing services within GASHA. A range of services are delivered to Nova Scotians in their homes in order that they may achieve and maintain maximum independence and quality of life. This home care program provides intermittent care to individuals assessed to have unmet functional needs as a result of illness or disability. Form revised 2010 SECTION D: Position Summary This position requires the Licensed Practical Nurse to practice within their scope of practice while adhering to LPN Code of Ethics, Act and Regulations, and Standards of Care. The position will provide authorized nursing care within the client’s home. While the LPN is required to work independently, there will be continuous collaboration between the LPN and the RN, as well as routine progress notes to Care Coordination. The LPN will act as a client advocate, ensuring that the client and family participate in the plan of care. The LPN will work adhering to policies and procedures devised from GASHA and Continuing Care. SECTION E: MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: (indicate approx % of time spent on each) Providing LPN authorized services while adhering to the guidelines of the CLPNNS Scope of Practice. Assessing and managing wounds independently and in collaboration with the RN while adhering to the Nova Scotia Wound Care Protocol. Works independently as a member of a multidisciplinary team within the organization as well as in the community. Management of client’s medication. This includes pre-pouring, and preloading medication, as well as client and family education. LPN level of care is provided on a 7 day per week basis to cover client care needs. Caseload will consist of a mixture of chronic, acute, and palliative care requiring the LPN level of care. Documents all client information accurately, and in a timely manner according to documentation standards. Initiates progress notes indicating change in client condition, level of care, or when assessed as being suitable for discharge. Updates medication lists, care plans, and physician orders on an on-going basis. Ability to utilize nursing process and apply standards of practice. Commit to maintain and protect patient, client, and personal safety on an ongoing basis. Annually access the training and education on patient, client and personal safety made available by GASHA. Form revised 2010 Position Description POSITION SPECIFICATIONS SECTION F: MINIMUM FORMAL EDUCATION: LPN Diploma from recognized Community College/recognized school. Minimum of 1 year experience in independent community based nursing. Pharmacology course required. SECTION G: CERTIFICATION/REGISTRATION/DESIGNATION Currently registered with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Nova Scotia or eligible to register. Certification or willingness to obtain CPI Current BLS-C Physical Assessment Course (Mandatory for 2013 LPN License). SECTION H: SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS: Demonstrates proficiency in communication and interpersonal skills used to establish therapeutic relationships with clients and families. Excellent assessment and teaching skills. Organized and able to prioritize clients according to needs. Committed to self-learning and continuous professional development as it related to community nursing. Adaptable to change and is flexible to accommodate the expectations of the position. SECTION I: NATURE AND AMOUNT OF EXPERIENCE: SECTION J: JUDGEMENT & INITIATIVE: Maintains clinical competence related to independent community nursing. Maintains confidentiality for all client information, and only discusses clients with team members that are directly related to the clients care plan. Form revised 2010 This position requires independent decision making, problem solving, and judgement when planning care for clients. Demonstrates knowledge related to Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations. Participates in bi-annual performance reviews, setting measurable goals, and setting time frames in collaboration with supervisor to meet goals. Collects statistical information on a monthly basis capturing number and type of nursing visits. SECTION K: TYPE AND LEVEL OF SUPERVISION EXERCISED: Although this position does not have any position reporting to it, they will be responsible for orientation of new staff, also acting as a preceptor for new LPN students/graduates. SECTION L: KEY RELATIONSHIPS: This position requires key relationships with Supervisor of Client Services, Registered Nurses, and Care Coordinators. They will also act as a member of a multidisciplinary team member with physicians, NP’s, and related care provider teams. SECTION M: DEGREE OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR DECISIONS ON FINANCIAL, HUMAN AND MATERIAL RESOURCES: Utilizes appropriate supplies while considering cost. SECTION N: PHYSICAL DEMAND: Physical ability to perform duties related to the position, such as client transfers etc. LPN will be required to carry bag containing medical supplies needed to provide nursing visits. SECTION O: MENTAL & VISUAL DEMAND: SECTION P: WORKING ENVIRONMENT and UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS: This position requires extensive travel in all seasons. All employees must have a valid Nova Scotia drivers licence and have a reliable vehicle. SECTION Q: SAFETY (patient, worker & workplace) The successful applicant will demonstrate good stewardship in the identification, reporting & mitigation of unsafe Acts or conditions Note: This position description describes the general nature of the position. Employees may be asked to perform other related duties required to meet the needs of the organization. Form revised 2010 Prepared by: Date: _______________________ Signature Name (Please Print) Approved by: Date: ________________________ Signature Name ( Please Print) VP Approval: Date: Signature Name ( Please Print) DISTRIBUTION: Human Resources Services Department Form revised 2010 _