Licensed Practical Nurse ( Level 1)

Shift Schedule: 0600-1800, 1800-0600 - Rotating

Job Summary

The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Phoenix Society works collaboratively with the interprofessional team to provide health care services to clients with physical and/or mental health, substance dependence, concurrent disorder and chronic disease. The LPN is responsible for planning, implementing and evaluating nursing care within an interprofessional clinical framework in accordance with Standards of Practice for the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM), and consistent with the mission, vision and values of Phoenix Society.

Organizational Status

The Phoenix Society is a multi-service agency located in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia dedicated to providing accessible services and opportunities to people who face barriers related to addiction, mental health, housing, education, criminal justice involvement and/or employment. [Insert description of department/unit that the role works within and its function within Phoenix Society. Include information on the department/unit such as, number of residents/ clients/ staff, aims and objectives, etc.]

Work Performed

Client Services

• Assist physicians and other team members in the performance of various examinations, treatments and diagnostic procedures such as physical examinations
• Perform a variety of nursing procedures such as taking blood pressures, heights and weights, and urine testing as directed
• Communicate patient information to designated supervisor, physicians, and other appropriate members of the team
• Assist designated supervisor in caring for clients with unpredictable outcomes or where the acuity or complexity of care requires an advanced level of knowledge and skill beyond the scope of practice for Licensed Practical Nurse
• Contribute to the development and modification of individualized care plans by identifying client priorities/plans and suggesting revisions of the nursing care plan as required for clients
• Monitor status of clients in relation to anticipated outcomes. Evaluate the effectiveness of nursing interventions by comparing actual outcomes to anticipated outcomes. Report unanticipated changes and concerns to designated supervisor
• Assess and identify clients actual and potential strengths and limitations including physiological, psychological, social-cultural and spiritual needs. Provide emotional support as needed
• Work in collaboration with the treatment team to assist the client with their program requirements by methods such as monitoring program requirements and motivational interviewing
• Review the medication administration record for each client and check with the designated supervisor or the physician regarding any concerns
• Deliver medications consistent with the written care plan, physician orders and standards of BCCNM
• Store all client medications according to policies and procedures
• Establish therapeutic relationships with clients

 Administration

• Maintain complete and accurate computerized and paper records through methods such as tracking results and consultation documentation, and inputting data and documentation appropriately on the client’s health record

 Occupational Health & Safety

• Maintain an awareness of current Occupation Health & Safety guidelines and standards
• Use appropriate supplies and equipment in accordance with organizational standards and safe care requirements
• Handle, store, and dispose of workplace hazardous materials and sharps in accordance with established procedures
• Identify and report unsafe practice/professional conduct in accordance with professional standards and organizational policies
• Participate in incident investigations as required
• Respond to incidents and provide nursing care such as, injuries to staff or visitors, Code Blue or Code White emergencies involving patients, hazardous and/or minor spills, or aggressive and/or disruptive behaviors
• Provide first aid to injured persons up to Occupational First Aid Level 1 standards
• Complete First Aid reports and Incident Report forms
• Assess individual client risk factors and incorporate risk mitigation strategies into clients care plans in order to optimize safety and security for staff, other clients and the general public

 Qualifications

• Post-secondary diploma (e.g., 2 to 3 years) in nursing or a related field
• Current practicing registration as a Registered Nurse or Registered Psychiatric Nurse with the British Columbia College or Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)
• 1 to 3 years of experience providing trauma-informed acute or community health nursing care/services to patients who have a combination of physical, psychiatric and/or concurrent substance abuse/misuse disorders, or equivalent
• Satisfactory completion of a criminal records check with vulnerable sector screening is required
• Satisfactory completion of Tuberculosis Screening form is required
• Satisfactory completion of Employee Immunization Record form is required
• First Aid 1 and Current CPR certificate is required
• Valid drivers license is required

 Skills & Knowledge

• Excellent knowledge of community health nursing theory including mental health and addictions, communicable diseases, primary care and practice within a patient/family-centered approach
• Excellent knowledge of BCCNM's Standards for Nursing Practice
• Excellent knowledge of the BC Mental Health Act, other facilities and community resources
• Good knowledge of facilitation, mediation, and conflict resolution techniques
• Good knowledge of computer literacy to operate a computerized patient care information system and word processing, spreadsheet, Internet and e-mail software
• Strong case management, teaching/training, clinical support and consultation skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally in English
• Demonstrated commitment to the social sector with a passion for the organization’s mission is essential

 Competencies

Approach to Work

• Demonstrates initiative, flexibility, adaptability and resourcefulness
• Actively seeks and incorporates feedback to inform continuous self-improvement
• Sets goals, creates and implements action plans, monitors progress, and evaluates results
• Adeptly manages competing tasks and uses time efficiently and effectively

 Job Knowledge & Quality of Work

• High-degree of relevant and current job knowledge and skill
• Consistently produces accurate, thorough, high-quality work in a timely manner
• Builds and promotes a culture of health and safety in the workplace
• Implements and enforces best practices in health and safety within the workplace

 Judgement & Decision-Making

• Models independent thinking and creativity
• Demonstrates effective problem-solving skills
• Makes clear, consistent, transparent and timely decisions after contemplating various available courses of action
• Exercises sound judgment in the best interests of the organization

 Communication & Interpersonal Skills

• Expresses themselves clearly and professionally both verbally and in writing
• Displays high emotional intelligence; uses tact and diplomacy in dealing with sensitive, complex and confidential situations
• Has a manner, style and presence that makes a positive impression
• Listens to and considers others views

 Personal Leadership

• Models the organizations core values of social justice, teamwork, social innovation, and strength-based practices
• Fosters enthusiasm, energy and commitment
• Takes responsibility for personal actions, performance and health
• Is reliable and accountable; shows up on time ready to work

 Teamwork & Collaboration

• Effectively works with their colleagues to ensure organizational success
• Champions positive working relationships with staff and external stakeholders
• Supports an environment of openness, and champions teamwork and communication across programs
• Leverages the expertise and experience of others for organizational success