What does an LVN Licensed Vocational Nurse do?
Licensed Vocational Nurses typically work for various healthcare facilities like hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, assisted living facilities, nursing homes or outpatient clinics to assist with patient care needs. They work closely with other healthcare professionals and administrative staff members to provide medical treatment to patients with a wide range of injuries or illnesses. Their job is to change dressings for patients or take out stitches, offer guidance about at-home treatments and communicate with Physicians or Nurses if a patient’s condition begins to decline.
They may also be responsible for assisting administrative staff in uploading patient files into a digital database or taking phone calls from patients regarding schedule changes.
LVN Licensed Vocational Nurse Skills and Qualifications
An LVN Licensed Vocational Nurse has to be able to bring their educational skills together with other skills they’ve learned on the job. An LVN meets people and cares for them in what is often a difficult or emotionally-charged situation. They have to maintain their composure and compassion while providing medical care. Some of the skills and qualifications an LVN needs to perform their duties effectively include:
- Communication skills: these may be the most important skills an LVN possesses. LVNs must communicate with doctors and patients and relay sensitive information.
- Time management skills: An LVN frequently gives care to multiple patients at any given time. It is critical for them to manage time in an efficient manner and take care of duties before ending their shifts.
- Decision-making skills: While an LVN is not a physician, the LVN does have the authority to make important decisions during the treatment of a patient. A competent LVN can make the correct decision to improve patient outcomes.
- Managerial abilities: An LVN is often placed into a managerial role and oversees the duties of assistants and orderlies. An LVN has to be capable of delegating tasks and making sure that they have been completed properly.
LVN Licensed Vocational Nurse salary expectations
The average salary for an LVN is $24.69 per hour, although this can vary with geographical location and experience. An LVN that has just earned their degree is typically paid at the low end of the salary range. A Licensed Vocational Nurse with many years of experience is generally paid a wage that is in line with their experience and ongoing education.
LVN Licensed Vocational Nurse education and training requirements
Someone who has earned Licensed Vocational Nurse certification has completed an accredited training program of at least one year, and they have passed a national licensure examination. An LVN must also possess the proper licenses to work legally in a particular state. Educational courses for an LVN include biology, pharmacology, nursing and chemistry along with a requisite number of supervised hours in a clinic.
LVN Licensed Vocational Nurse experience requirements
An LVN needs to have experience working in different clinical settings and handling many different types of medical needs. They should be experienced in helping patients, managing co-workers, relaying information to physicians and patients and performing various tasks as needed.
Job description samples for similar positions
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