Per Diem LPN - Flex

Per diem overnight position.

About the role

Under the clinical direction of the Registered Nurse (RN), provides nursing care to persons served, operating within personal license constraints and in strict accordance with regulations and guidelines defined by the Nurse Practices Act, Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), N.J. Department of Health, N.J. Department of Education Administrative Code and Amendments, Commission of Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Healthcare Organization (JCAHO) Division of Youth Services (DYFS) where applicable, the Individual Program Plan (IPP), Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act (HIPAA), and established Bancroft policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Reviews and accurately transcribes physician orders for documentation into the medical record of each person served.
• Obtains detailed health histories and conducts health screenings and physical assessments of persons served (e.g., vital signs, height, weight, pain assessments, nutritional needs, abuse and neglect screening) to determine a baseline health status and identify current and changing healthcare needs; reports findings to RN for subsequent review by physician.
• Performs on-site visits of program sites to ensure the health, safety, security, and overall quality of care for persons served; identifies and addresses existing and potential issues of concern.
• Monitors medical charts and summaries to ensure currency of information, adherence to physician orders, and proper documentation of medications and treatments.
• Administers first aid and emergency medical treatment to persons served in the event of illness and/or injury.
• Obtains and reviews written reports of laboratory and special tests performed for persons served; consults with healthcare providers as needed and documents pertinent information in medical records.
• Establishes and maintains clinical records, including medical history, drug reactions, allergies, prescribed medications, and pertinent medical care information.
• Administers medications and treatments in strict accordance with physician orders; monitors efficacy, side effects, expected outcomes, and adverse reactions.
• Maintains an adequate inventory of medications and ensures the safety, security, and cleanliness of medication rooms, persons’ areas, and medical equipment.
• Interacts regularly with Nurse Managers, case management staff, and program management regarding the healthcare needs of persons served and preparation for scheduled laboratory or special testing.
• Provides education and assistance to direct care staff on monitoring medication effectiveness, adverse effects, and proper reporting/documentation procedures.
• Participates in infection control policies and procedures; educates staff and persons served on issues related to contagious diseases and appropriate precautions.
• Facilitates a team approach to quality care through collaboration with persons served, family members, clinical staff, healthcare providers, and regulatory agencies.
• Utilizes professional, efficient, and accountable documentation systems that conform to federal/state regulations and Bancroft policies.
• Develops and maintains progress reports, incident reports, and summary reports as appropriate.
• Reports suspected abuse to the appropriate authority in accordance with established policies.
• Maintains awareness of current and changing nursing statutes, regulations, and health laws.
• Enhances professional growth and incorporates findings into practice to strengthen the provision of quality healthcare.
• Actively participates in performance improvement systems for program sites.
• Builds and maintains effective relationships with persons served and their family members/guardians to promote trust and confidence.
• Assists with crisis management through de-escalation techniques, staff support, and Bancroft-approved crisis intervention methods.
• Follows state-approved emergency procedures and maintains levels of supervision as defined in behavior plans (e.g., IPP, IRP, IEP, ISP).
• Projects a positive self-image of professionalism, confidentiality, courtesy, and respect for the rights, dignity, and privacy of others.
• Remains flexible and adaptable in work schedules and assignments based on program and individual needs.
• Adheres to the Bancroft Code of Ethics, Mission Statement, and Vision Statement.
• Maintains required training certifications, licensing, and regulatory accreditations.
• Maintains effective verbal and written communication with colleagues, persons served, and their families/guardians.
• Cooperates with internal and external inspections and investigations.
• Maintains a safe and respectful environment, free of abuse, neglect, or exploitation; reports violations immediately.
• Demonstrates Bancroft’s core values.

Requirements

• Licensed Practical Nurse from an accredited Nursing program with a current and valid N.J. license.
• Prior nursing experience working with the developmentally disabled and/or the traumatically brain injured preferred.