An LPN job description allows you to be able to be prepared for what a given job entails. You will want to look at the LPN job description for any job that you apply for. That way you have a good idea of the types of tasks you are going to be taking on in that role.
What an LPN does for a given job can vary based on locations. Taking care of patients is the primary goal but there are many different hats that are worn in that position. Taking the vital signs and documenting them on patient charts is a big part of any LPN job description. This is because vitals are always recorded in the ER, the hospital setting, a doctor’s office, and even in assisted living facilities.
The various vital signs that an LPN may need to take include pulse, blood pressure, height, and weight. Documentation of patient visits and all of the vitals in their records is a big part of an LPN job description. This ensures that there is accurate information about when someone was seen.
The patient records also documents medicines, treatments, and things that are being watched. For example if a patient has been recognized with high blood pressure then that should be documented in the file. It helps the LPN and other medical staff to get a good idea of the situation in the future when the patient is seen again too.
To help with monitoring and diagnosing patient needs an LPN may have the job function of collecting various samples. This often includes urine samples but it may also include stool samples. LPN’s also draw blood in some settings such as a doctor’s office. In a hospital that is typically going to be done by the lab.
A big part of the LPN job description is often giving medication to patients. This is done in a hospital or assisted living environment. The medications have to be prescribed by a doctor. Inventory of medications has to be done each shift too in order to ensure that there is the proper amount of them on hand.
LPN’s are often responsible for management too. They will be overseeing the work of nurse aides and volunteers. They may have various responsibilities that they need someone with more education to oversee for them. There can be a great deal of paperwork that is involved with any LPN job. Every LPN Job description may be different depending who you are working with.
Working with RN’s, doctors, and other medical staff may be part of the job. It is common for the LPN to also be part of discharging patients from a facility. This can be the hospital, after they have been treated in the ER, and many other
Always evaluate the complete LPN job description before you accept the position. You will find that there is quite a bit of variety out there with this type of work. The setting, the amount of staff, and even the type of care facility will determine what your role in it is going to be.