Position Overview
The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) for the APD division at Agape’s Way is responsible for delivering high-quality nursing care to clients in home-based settings. The LPN plays a crucial role in assisting individuals with developmental disabilities by providing direct patient care, administering medications, monitoring health conditions, and coordinating with other healthcare professionals to ensure clients receive personalized care in line with their Individual Plans (IP). This role requires travel to client homes and a commitment to providing compassionate care.
Reports to: Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON)
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Care & Patient Monitoring
Provide direct nursing care to clients, following the client’s Individual Plan (IP) and care plan.
Perform focused assessments at the beginning of each shift to identify specific health needs.
Monitor for signs and symptoms of physiological and psychological changes in client conditions and report findings to the Registered Nurse (RN) or Director of Nursing (DON).
Collect, interpret, and document vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure) and other patient health metrics every two hours or as needed.
Administer prescribed medications, including oral, topical, and injectable medications, according to physician orders and patient care protocols.
Medication Administration & Monitoring
Administer medications to clients following the seven medication rights (right patient, right medication, right dose, right route, right time, right documentation, and right reason).
Observe clients for any changes in behavior or health resulting from medication administration and report immediately to the supervising nurse or physician.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date Medication Administration Records (MAR) for all clients.
Collaboration & Communication
Collaborate closely with Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), RNs, and other healthcare professionals to provide holistic, quality care to clients.
Communicate changes in patient health, incidents, or issues with healthcare providers and family members as necessary.
Coordinate with the waiver support coordinators to ensure that nursing care aligns with the clients' overall care goals and annual planning meetings.
Participate in care planning meetings and contribute to the development of updated care plans for clients, ensuring they are reflective of current medical needs.
Personal Care & Daily Living Assistance
Oversee and ensure the proper provision of personal hygiene care (bathing, toileting, grooming) by CNAs, ensuring clients' dignity and independence are respected.
Provide direct assistance to clients with ambulation, mobility, and transfers to and from beds, chairs, or other equipment.
Assist with feeding clients, ensuring their dietary needs are met and followed as per the physician’s orders.
Documentation & Record Keeping
Complete and maintain accurate documentation of patient health assessments, medication administration, and clinical interventions.
Record any changes in patient behavior, physical status, or care needs in compliance with agency policies.
Ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations, maintaining the confidentiality of patient information.
Track work hours and care activities in the agency’s electronic health record (EHR) system.
Safety & Emergency Response
Follow safety protocols to ensure a safe environment for both staff and clients.
Perform regular checks of emergency equipment in clients' homes, ensuring all equipment is functional and accessible.
Assist in responding to medical emergencies, ensuring proper documentation and communication of the event to the necessary healthcare personnel.
Educate clients and families on health and safety practices, ensuring adherence to healthcare protocols at home.
Client Advocacy & Emotional Support
Act as an advocate for client health and well-being, ensuring that all care decisions are made in the best interest of the client.
Provide emotional support and companionship to clients, helping to build trusting relationships.
Ensure clients’ voices are heard in care planning and decision-making processes.
Professional Development & Training
Maintain up-to-date training and certifications, including LPN licensure, CPR/First Aid, and DDA CORE training within 90 days of employment.
Attend meetings, in-service training, and professional development opportunities as required by Agape’s Way and the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD).
Stay current on best practices for providing care to individuals with developmental disabilities.
Required Qualifications
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) licensed to practice in the state of Florida.
Associates Degree in Nursing or an equivalent diploma.
Minimum of 1 year of experience working in home healthcare or with individuals with developmental disabilities, preferred.
Strong knowledge of nursing practices, medication administration, and care plan implementation.
Ability to travel to client homes and work flexible hours, including holidays and during inclement weather.
Ability to lift or move 50 pounds or more, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with clients, families, and healthcare professionals.
Benefits:
Competitive salary and benefits package.
Flexible work schedule with opportunities to work directly with clients in their homes.
Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
