Spanish) Preferred

Kern Medical•Bakersfield, CA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, to provide patient care as assigned in a hospital, clinic, or correctional facility. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: Vocational Nurse I is distinguished from Vocational Nurse II by the latter's completion of a course approved by the nursing board certifying the individual to start peripheral intravenous infusions. Vocational Nurse II's assigned to Psychiatric Nursing or Correctional Nursing must have one (1) year of applicable experience in a particular specialty such as inpatient acute psychiatry, or correctional medicine in lieu of the intravenous infusion certification. Promotions within the series are considered on a merit basis when recommended by the Department Head and approved by the Vice President of Human Resources.

Requirements

Possess a current American Heart Association Healthcare Provider Basic Life Support (BLS) card at time of hire. As a continued condition of employment, employee must maintain RQI Provider certification and competency.
Completion of a basic pre-service Vocational Nurse curriculum accredited by the California Board of Vocational Nurse and Psychiatric Technician examiners.OR completion of a educational program leading to an Associate degree or Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing.
Possession of a current valid license as a Vocational Nurse as issued by the State of CaliforniaOR possession of a temporary license as a Vocational Nurse issued by the State of CaliforniaOR possession of an interim permit to practice as a Vocational Nurse issued by the State of California. Vocational Nurse II is required to be State certified to start intravenous infusions. Probationary employees possessing a temporary license OR an interim permit must acquire their California Vocational Nurse license during their 6-month probationary period or fail probation.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual (English/Spanish)

Responsibilities

Performs the more responsible patient care functions utilizing broad knowledge in the techniques, methods, procedures and equipment required in support of the registered nurse and medical staff in patient treatment
Demonstrates knowledge and use of the nursing process
Performs general nursing care in various departments
Uses the mechanical lift in moving patients
Performs minor dressing changes, cauterizations, deep tracheal suction, tracheotomy care, bathing, colostomy care, and traction care
Takes and records temperature, pulse and respiration
Observes and keeps records and reports unusual conditions or behavior
Participates in development of nursing care plans
Maintains records reflecting patient's condition, medication, and treatment
Prepares patients for examinations and treatments
Administers special diets, and treatments as prescribed; gives medications if certified
Assists staff with dressings
Dependent upon area of practice or department assignments, demonstrates clinical knowledge and skill in the care of the newborn, infant, toddler, child, adolescent, adult and geriatric patient ranging up to 100+ years of age.