DSHS WSH Licensed Practical Nurse 2

Western State Hospital in Lakewood, WA is hiring a Licensed Practical Nurse 2 to perform clinical nursing duties under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse or licensed physician, assisting consulting physicians and supporting patient care throughout the hospital.

About Western State Hospital

Located in Lakewood, Washington, Western State Hospital is one of the largest psychiatric hospitals in the state, providing inpatient mental health treatment for individuals with serious or long-term psychiatric conditions. Established in 1871, the hospital has a long history of serving Washington communities by offering comprehensive psychiatric care, treatment, and rehabilitation services. As part of the Department of Social and Health Services, Western State Hospital plays a vital role in helping patients stabilize, recover, and reintegrate into the community whenever possible. Our dedicated healthcare professionals work in a collaborative environment to provide compassionate, evidence-based care, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

Responsibilities

• Assist Lead LPN4 and consulting physicians with medical assessments, procedures, and nursing care under supervision, including supporting minor surgical procedures and gynecological exams.
• Work directly with consulting physicians to support patient examinations, diagnostics, and care.
• Schedule, document, and coordinate patient clinic appointments and outcomes, notifying wards and escort staff of changes.
• Perform routine EKGs and support patient care throughout Western State Hospital.
• Utilize clinic systems daily, including CRTS, TRx, and PASS, to document and track patient care activities.
• Maintain and update knowledge of medical equipment and technologies used in the clinic, including telemedicine tools.
• Assist with medical clinic inventory, including reviewing supplies, recommending orders, and managing equipment needs.
• Repair and stock optical and reading glasses for patients, supporting a range of eye care services.
• Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of practice.

Requirements

• Valid license to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in the State of Washington.
• At least one year of experience as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Skills

• Experience assisting physicians in a medical clinic, preferably with psychiatric nursing experience.
• Experience assisting with minor surgeries and gynecological exams.
• Knowledge of and ability to use a variety of medical equipment and technologies, including advanced tools such as OCT, autorefractors, and telemedicine equipment.
• Ability to perform and assist with routine EKGs and operate EKG machines.
• Experience supporting a range of eye care services, from ophthalmology to optician-level support.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and jargon for accurate documentation and transcription.
• Skill in operating medical tables, exam chairs, and other clinic equipment safely.
• Ability to travel throughout the Western State Hospital campus to provide patient care.
• Proficiency with CRTS, TRx, PASS, Cache Web, and Microsoft Office.
• Strong oral and written communication skills to interact effectively with medical professionals, peers, clients, and the public.

Benefits

• Opportunities performed on-site at this work location at least three days a week may be eligible for an additional 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary.
• Pierce County employees are eligible to receive an Orca Card for transportation needs.

Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.