Licensed Vocational Nurse I
About The Position
The Licensed Vocational Nurse I performs routine vocational nursing work and provides care, treatment, and general welfare support to individuals at a state hospital who have complex medical, mental health, and/or behavioral health issues. The nurse performs basic and routine nursing tasks, carries out technical procedures in accordance with facility and state regulations, and instructs direct support professionals and other staff on care that supports individuals’ medical needs. The position assists with orienting new LVNs and works under the direction and moderate supervision of a Registered Nurse, with limited latitude for initiative and independent judgment. The position is based at Austin State Hospital in Austin, Texas. The listed shift is evening, with possible day, evening, or night assignments. The role is not eligible for telework and may require travel up to 5%. Flexibility in work hours, overtime, extended hours, rotating schedules, and alternate shift or location assignments for disaster response or continuity-of-operations activities may be required. The position may be eligible for additional pay for evening, night, and/or weekend work.
Requirements
- Graduation from an LVN program with nursing accreditation or approval by CCNE or ACEN (formerly NLNAC).
- Current license to practice as a licensed vocational nurse in Texas or in a state recognizing reciprocity through the Nurse Licensure Compact, or a temporary permit to perform supervised nursing duties while awaiting licensure.
- Maintain current CPR certification and have the strength and flexibility to safely perform CPR.
- Knowledge of nursing care standards, procedures, techniques, and principles of appropriate patient care.
- Knowledge of emergency procedures and equipment, including CPR and TIPS, and ability to assess and care for patients or staff during emergencies.
- Reasoning skills to identify problems and consider appropriate resolutions.
- Skill operating computers and applicable software, and skill in patient care and treatment.
- Ability to care for individuals with complex medical, mental health, and/or behavioral health issues; maintain records and use an electronic health record system after training; and communicate effectively and instruct others.
- If transporting patients, possess a valid Texas driver license or obtain one within 90 days of hire; applicants with an out-of-state license must provide an original certified driving record. Eligible driving record required under HHSC Fleet Management policy.
- Pass required fingerprint criminal background, pre-employment drug, and registry checks.
- Be at least 18 years of age for employment at a state-operated facility.
- Comply with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital immunization procedures.
- Flexibility in work hours may be required; position may require overtime and/or extended hours.
Nice To Haves
- Six months of experience working or volunteering directly with persons with mental illness is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Administer medications and treatments orally, rectally, internally, or by injection, and assist other medical staff in examining and caring for patients.
- Perform basic and routine nursing tasks and develop competency in more technical procedures under RN guidance, including tracheostomy care, gastrostomy/jejunostomy care, wound care, and breathing treatments.
- Monitor individuals’ weight, diet, mealtimes, vital signs, and health status after treatments and procedures.
- Instruct direct support professionals and other staff on care needs and post-treatment monitoring.
- Document and report treatments and observations accurately and promptly in electronic or paper medical records.
- Communicate pertinent information orally and in writing to interdisciplinary team members, including RN Case Managers.
- Respond to emergencies and follow facility safety and infection-control procedures.
- Collect specimens for laboratory examination and conduct screening tests when requested by laboratory personnel.
- Provide individuals with information and education about procedures and treatments in accordance with their care plans.
- Ensure individuals are positioned appropriately for treatments and assist or instruct staff in repositioning when needed.
- Maintain inventory and ensure supplies are available and stocked; order supplies through appropriate channels.
- Assist in acclimating and orienting new LVN staff to nursing functions and individuals’ needs and preferences.
- Attend work regularly and perform other assigned duties, including supporting disaster response, recovery, or continuity-of-operations activities.
Benefits
- 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees
- Defined benefit pension plan
- Generous time off benefits
- Opportunities for career advancement
- Potential additional pay for work performed on evenings, nights, and/or weekends
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
