Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Extern

LPN Extern

Ready to take your first steps into the world of nursing? Our externship program offers a unique and exciting opportunity for graduates of state-approved nursing programs to gain real-world experience and invaluable mentorship alongside licensed nurses. As an extern, you will be an integral part of the team, learning the essential skills and daily routines required to become a licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) while providing outstanding care to our residents. This is a temporary role designed to jumpstart your nursing career before licensure.

Essential Job Functions:

Shadow nursing staff:

• Communicate and collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to ensure personalized care plans for each resident.
• Take responsibility for learning and understanding the care needs of all residents under your supervision.
• Conduct rounds and verify that care plans are being followed to deliver the highest quality care.
• Assist with writing and updating resident assessments and care plans, and gain insight into the MDS and Quality Indicators.
• Accurately document all physician orders, whether verbal or written, and notify the Unit Clerk to schedule necessary appointments.
• Complete precise and honest documentation, including:
  * Nurse charting (Daily Scheduled, MDS, Medicare, Charting by Exception, lab/diagnostic results)
  * Completion of all assigned MDS assessments
• Provide a thorough and accurate handoff report to the oncoming shift nurse.
  * Ensure accuracy in your work and handle central supply items properly by scanning them for each resident.
  * Report any errors immediately to the ADON/DON for timely correction.
  * Immediately report any suspected abuse or neglect to the DON, ADON, or Administrator.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of:
* Medical terminology, safety procedures, and infection prevention protocols.
* Emergency/disaster response and evacuation protocols.
* Resident rights, along with recognizing and reporting abuse and neglect.

Skills in:
* Operating tools, equipment, and materials used in resident care.
* Maintaining safety standards and following safety protocols.
* Communicating instructions both orally and in writing with clarity.
* Utilizing a computer and specialized software applications for resident care.

Ability to:
* Recognize and act upon any changes in a residents condition, notifying the nurse for proper care.
* Identify situations beyond your scope and know when to ask for guidance.
* Demonstrate sensitivity and professionalism when interacting with residents and their families.
* Adhere strictly to your scope of practice and the Arizona State Board of Nursing Rules and Nurse Practice Act.
* Operate diagnostic equipment effectively.
* Build collaborative relationships with colleagues, residents, and family members.
* Read, write, and follow instructions with accuracy and efficiency.
* Maintain confidentiality, manage stress, and adapt to dynamic work environments.
* Uphold facility policies and procedures.

Required Minimum Education, Experience, and Training:
* Graduate of a state-approved nursing school.
* Must pass the NCLEX exam for licensure within 30 days of hire.
* Must secure a current Arizona State Board nursing license within 60 days of hire.

Special Job Requirements:
* Attend mandatory nursing meetings and continuing education sessions.
* Obtain and maintain an Arizona Department of Public Safety Fingerprint Card at your own expense.
* Keep CPR certification up to date.
* Complete annual Tuberculosis Testing.
* Finish 12 hours of required annual in-service training.
* Comply with all federal, state, and local communicable disease testing mandates.

EOE

Step into your nursing future with us! Gain valuable experience, develop essential skills, and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we care for.