Licensed Practical Nurse, AtlantiCare Behavioral Health

Position Summary:
The licensed practical nurse provides nursing care, assists in the completion of a Master Treatment Plan for each client, provides education consistent with identified problems and associated goals, administers medications ordered by physicians and clinical nurse specialists, and assists in case management. The licensed practical nurse provides care consistent with licensure. The licensed practical nurse receives clinical supervision commensurate with licensure and training. This staff member also demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide services appropriate to any age/disability group assigned. The individual is proficient in the knowledge and skills described in the core competency curriculum for each assigned age/disability group.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collects data on all referred clients in order to determine needs for service.
• Appropriately reviews the client's needs throughout treatment.
• Participates with team members and clients/families in the completion of a Master Treatment Plan within 30 days of admission (or before the fifth appointment) for all referred clients.
• Participates in the updating of the Master Treatment Plan every 90 days or as indicated by changes in client needs.
• Actively participates in treatment planning with treatment team.
• Provides competent, individualized health-related education and accurate information to clients, families and significant others based on identified knowledge deficits (e.g., nutrition, medication, symptom recognition and control).
• Demonstrates knowledge and ability to perform health-related services for clients (e.g., taking blood pressure).
• Assists in the development and implementation of health-related educational groups (e.g., Clozaril and other medication groups).
• Competently administers and monitors psychotropic medications ordered by physicians and clinical nurse specialists.
• Demonstrates a knowledge of crisis intervention and aggressive behavior management.
• Coordinates the collection of drug-screening specimens.
• Competently maintains the pharmaceutical sample inventory.
• Assists with case management and interagency coordination of services for clients. Makes appropriate referrals.
• Documents all client interaction, including all sessions with clients, families, significant others, etc., within 24 hours of contact.
• Completes progress notes accurately, addressing treatment goals, major issues and changes in mental health status.
• Writes in a professional and competent manner.
• Demonstrates a willingness to serve on professional committees, attend staff meetings, in-services, etc.
• Seeks supervision in a professional manner and documents supervision.
• Maintains a current NJ license to practice.
• Participates in discharge planning.
• Maintain current BLS certificate.
• Documentation must be completed within one (1) calendar day of service delivery.

Minimal Qualifications:

• Licensure/Certification: Current and valid license to practice as a licensed practical nurse in New Jersey.
• Education: Graduate of accredited LPN program.
• Experience: One year in behavioral health setting.
• Valid NJ driver's license for use of company vehicle.
• Blood-borne pathogen training required.