Licensed Practical Nurse I - Metro Region - Full and Part Time Positions - Continuous Posting

About the Role

The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) seeks compassionate nursing professionals to apply for Licensed Practical Nurse I (LPN I) positions. This is an excellent entry level nursing opportunity for candidates interested in furthering their career and broadening their nursing experience to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The LPN I is the first level in the series and candidates will deliver care to individuals living in a community residential home setting. Our LPNs are an extremely important part of our team, developing relationships and working with individuals, family members, significant others, provider agencies and other appropriate parties in order to improve the overall health/quality of living for those supported by the agency.

Positions are available in the following cities and towns: Ashland, Canton, Charlestown, Dedham, Dorchester, Foxboro, Framingham, Hyde Park, Medfield, Needham, Norfolk, Roslindale, Roxbury/Mission Hill, South Boston, Somerville, Walpole, Waltham, Wellesley, Westboro, and Wrentham.

Responsibilities

• Provide exceptional nursing care and oversight by implementing individuals' health care plans including charting vital signs, application of medical/surgical dressings, and administering medications as prescribed and directed by the primary/specialty physician
• Assist with daily maintenance, personal care and other services of support as outlined in the Individual Service Plan (ISP)
• Maintain individual records and files
• Initiate referrals for needed medical services including scheduling, hospital safeguarding, advocacy and other follow-up care
• Engage in referral for supportive and health-related protections
• Communicate health issues to staff and update individuals' families/guardians in matters including hospitalizations, rehabilitation support such as physical/occupational therapy
• Inform staff of any medical concerns related to activity level that may hinder an individual's progress
• Order medications and maintain medical supplies, materials and equipment
• Initiate emergency medical procedures by applying basic first aid techniques and/or CPR and tracheotomy care, and catheterizations
• Provide training for direct support staff on use of equipment and treatments
• Transport individuals to work, medical appointments, recreational activities and other community engagements as needed

Requirements

• Possess a current, active license to practice as an LPN in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts
• Possess a current and valid Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License
• Obtain and maintain Health Care Provider Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
• Based on assignment, some LPN positions may be assigned to locations that require 24/7 nursing staff and mandatory overtime when circumstances dictate the need
• This position is designated as an "EMERGENCY" position in the DDS Emergency Plan, requiring report to work whenever the Governor declares a state of emergency
• All employees must have direct deposit and are paid on a bi-weekly basis

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain a respectful, caring, tolerant, ethical, and empowering relationship with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
• Capacity to assist/lift individuals with physical disabilities and/or limited mobility
• Knowledge of standard nursing policies, procedures, methods and techniques
• Capacity to maintain accurate records and exercise discretion in handling confidential information
• Familiarity with safety practices and medical terminology/abbreviations
• Aptitude to transcribe, read and comprehend the English language

Pay

Salary: $62,961.86. Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate's years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with the internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. For bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits are offered, including an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of the compensation package.

Schedule

Multiple shifts available, with full-time and part-time positions serving the Group Homes throughout the Metro Region of DDS.