Reports To: Director of Acute/ED
FLSA Classification: Full-Time, Non-exempt, Hourly $25.00-$38.00
The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides direct patient care in the Acute/Medical-Surgical setting under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) and/or licensed provider, in accordance with the Colorado Nurse Practice Act and Critical Access Hospital Conditions of Participation (42 CFR §485.635). The LPN supports implementation of the nursing plan of care, monitors patient status, and ensures safe, quality care within scope of practice.
Essential Functions
• Provides age-appropriate patient care under the supervision of an RN
• Assists in the implementation of the nursing plan of care; does not independently assess or develop care plans
• Monitors, observes, and reports changes in patient condition to the RN/provider in a timely manner
• Performs routine nursing care including vital signs, wound care, ADL support, and treatments within scope
• Administers medications per provider order, hospital policy, and state scope; monitors for effects and adverse reactions
• Maintains accurate, timely, and compliant documentation in the electronic health record
• Assists with admissions, transfers, and discharges
• Communicates effectively with patients, families, providers, and interdisciplinary team members
• Participates in emergency response (e.g., Code Blue) within scope and training
• Direct and support CNAs/UAPs as delegated by the RN
• Adheres to infection control, safety, and quality improvement practices
• Other duties as assigned
Education and Experience
• Graduate of an accredited Practical Nursing program
• Current, unencumbered Colorado LPN license required
• Current BLS certification required
• Acute care experience preferred
Skills and Expectations
• Practices within LPN scope and under RN supervision at all times
• Demonstrates effective communication, professionalism, and teamwork
• Maintains patient confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA
• Demonstrates critical thinking, organization, and ability to prioritize in a fast-paced environment
• Remains calm and effective in emergency situations
• Adheres to PMC policies, Code of Conduct, and regulatory requirements
• Supports a culture of safety, respect, and accountability
LIMITATIONS OF PRACTICE (CMS/STATE COMPLIANCE)
• Functions under the direction of a Registered Nurse
• Does not perform independent nursing assessments or develop/modify care plans
• Escalates clinical concerns and abnormal findings to the RN or provider
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing this job, the employee:
- Must be able to remain in a stationary positon 50% of the time.
- Must be able to move and traverse about the facility 50% of the time.
- Frequently transport objects weighing up to 50lbs
- Occasionally position objects weighing up to 100lbs.
- Must be able to communicate and exchange information in a way others will understand.
- Must be able to recognize details such as color and depth within a few feet of the observer.
- Frequently operates computers, machinery, and other healthcare equipment.
- Constantly positions self to complete essential functions.
- May be required to wear N95s or PAPRs throughout the shift.
Pioneers' history began in 1947 when Freeman Fairfield, a previous resident of this community, approached the County Commissioners about establishing a hospital. Over the next several years, Mr. Fairfield worked with the Commissioners and a group of local citizens to build a hospital for the Meeker community. Opening its doors in 1950, Pioneers began offering acute health care and surgical services to the community, licensed through the State of Colorado Department of Health and Human Services. We are Medicare and Medicaid-certified, accept private insurance, and, of course, self-pay. Financial arrangements may be set up through the Business Office.
In 1964, the Walbridge Memorial Convalescent Wing opened its doors for long-term care, made possible through the generosity of the wills of Carl and Adelaide Walbridge. Attached to the north side of the hospital, the Wing, with its 33 beds, brings skilled and intermediate nursing to residents who are unable to care for themselves. Through the Wing's rehabilitation services, exercise, and activity groups, each resident's care is individualized to meet his or her physical, emotional, nutritional, and spiritual needs. The Wing is licensed by the State of Colorado Department of Health and Human Services, and accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and private-pay residents.
First-line health care services are delivered through Meeker Family Health Center. The MFHC originated in 1990 as a rural health clinic, and its physicians, nurse practitioners, and staff continue to strive to meet our community's and visitors' healthcare needs.
