Licensed Practical Nurse - LPN LVN - Dialysis

Fresenius Medical Care•Salem, OR

About The Position

The Licensed Practical Nurse supports FMCNA’s mission, vision, core values, and customer service philosophy while following its compliance program and applicable regulatory and company requirements. As part of the home therapy health care team, the LPN provides safe and effective dialysis therapy under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse and participates in implementing and evaluating patient care. Under RN direction, the LPN provides care for assigned patients in accordance with physician orders, state nurse practice laws, company procedures, and regulatory requirements. The role supports identification, evaluation, and training of home dialysis candidates; monitors and documents patient treatment and ongoing care; responds to problems and emergencies; and helps maintain supplies and dialysis equipment. The LPN also collaborates with the RN/Coordinator, Manager, and physicians on patient treatment plans, backup treatments, education, and quality monitoring. The position involves desk and computer work, interaction with patients and care teams, and travel between assigned facilities and community locations. The work environment is characteristic of a healthcare facility with controlled air temperature and moderate noise, with possible exposure to infectious and contagious diseases or materials. An Ishihara color blindness test is required as a condition of employment; failure does not automatically preclude employment, and reasonable accommodations may be considered.

Requirements

Graduate of an accredited School of Practical Nursing (LPN or LVN).
Current appropriate state licensure.
Successfully complete a training course in the theory and practice of hemodialysis.
Successfully complete CPR certification.
Complete the Nurses Technical Training Program upon hire or soon thereafter.
Good verbal and written communication skills.
Take the Ishihara Color Blindness test as a condition of employment; failure does not automatically preclude employment, and reasonable accommodations may be considered.

Nice To Haves

One year of medical-surgical nursing experience preferred.
Hemodialysis experience preferred but not required.
ICU experience preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Provide direct patient care under the direction of a Registered Nurse and in compliance with physician orders, state nurse practice laws, company policies, and regulatory requirements.
Administer intravenous medication in accordance with physician orders and state nurse practice laws.
Assist the Home Therapy RN/Coordinator in identifying, evaluating, and training candidates for the home dialysis program.
Accurately document patient training and treatment information in the patient record and Medical Information System.
Monitor, assess, and intervene in the care of home patients, including through home visits, clinical appointments, training or review sessions, laboratory studies, and annual studies such as x-rays and EKGs.
Respond appropriately to patient problems or emergencies and ensure appropriate resolution.
Follow patient supply procedures, document appropriately, and ensure maintenance of durable medical equipment, including preventive maintenance and water analysis.
Perform monthly chart audits and report results to the RN/Coordinator or Manager.
Monitor peritonitis rates and PET test results, and report outcomes to attending physicians, the Quality Assurance Committee, and the Home Therapy RN/Coordinator or Manager.
Collaborate with the physician, under the direction of the Home Therapy RN/Coordinator or Manager, to make changes to patient treatment plans as needed.
Collaborate with the Home Therapy RN/Coordinator or Manager and physician to schedule backup treatments when necessary.
Participate in educating pre-dialysis and existing ESRD patients about treatment options.
Prepare home supply inventory packages and monitor efficient use of supplies.
Maintain knowledge of dialysis equipment used in the program and field, including hemodialysis machines, water treatment systems, peritoneal cyclers, and peritoneal assist devices.
Maintain knowledge of current dialysis principles and techniques by participating in scheduled in-service classes.
Troubleshoot equipment problems with patients by telephone and ensure appropriate resolution.
Address blood spills immediately according to FMCNA Bloodborne Pathogen Control Policies.
Participate in scheduled staff meetings and assist with short- and long-term patient care plan meetings.
Assist with educational in-services about home therapies for in-center staff, hospitals, or nursing programs as needed.
Participate in training facility staff in the principles, concepts, and practice of the FMS Customer Service Model.
Act as a resource person for other staff members.
Provide outstanding customer service, maintain effective relationships through timely communication, and respond to and follow up on customer service issues.
Perform other duties as assigned.