Licensed Vocational Nurse - Northern Valley Indian Health

As a member of the health care team, is responsible for performing routine technical nursing duties and assists with other related duties involved in providing patient care in an ambulatory health program. Duties may include explaining programs offered by the agency to individuals. The activities of vocational nurse are based on the individual’s educational preparation and experience. Work is performed under the administrative supervision of the Nursing Director and the clinical supervision of a registered nurse. Operates within the scope of the Nursing Practice Act and maintains standards consistent with the level of care set by Title 22.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: The list that follows is not intended as a comprehensive list, but rather to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) will be required to perform a variety of duties listed, including but not limited to:

1. Performs nursing laboratory duties and tasks including but not limited to, urine dipsticks, urine pregnancy tests, urine micro albumins, Hemoglobin A1C, Blood Sugars, Flu Screening, RSV Screening, COVID-19 Screening, and strep screens in compliance with all applicable standards, regulations and medical clinic policy.
2. Performs or administers procedures associated with sharps such as blood draws (with close attention to required specimen handling and processing), perform applicable injections, and log or record per NVIH procedures.
3. Performs various services and procedures in accordance with the American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP) Bright Futures, CHDP, Medical Clinic policy, and in compliance with all applicable standards for eye screening, audiometric screening, Anthropometric/BMI Screening, and EKG.
4. Knowledge and understanding of the pediatric and adult immunization schedules and support Medical Assistants with appropriate guidance on vaccinations and administration.
5. Assembles materials and equipment in preparation for patient care and maintains adequate supplies.
6. Assists providers with procedures approved to perform as requested.
7. Administers specified medication, orally or by subcutaneous or inter-muscular injection and notes time and amount on patients; charts as are permitted under the Vocational Nursing regulations and organizational standardized written procedures.
8. Collects samples, such as urine, blood and sputum from patients for testing and performs routine laboratory tests on samples.
9. Clean, and disinfect for sterilization instruments/equipment, exam rooms, and supplies, using appropriate supplied disinfectants and materials and per agency policy.
10. Assist providers with follow-up of all abnormal test results and other treatment plans as needed.
11. Observes blood-borne pathogen precautions and infection control procedures per OSHA standards and clinic policies and procedures.
12. Assist other staff members in development and maintenance of department goals, objectives, policies and procedures.Participate in ongoing quality improvement monitoring and activities.Supports nursing staff and acts as lead in the absence of RN coordinator and Nursing Director.
13. Implement appropriate patient teaching that is directed toward preventing illness and maintaining health in cooperation with and as directed by providers and/or registered nurse.
14. Identify victims of child and adult abuse, assault and domestic violence and provide intervention, make referrals as necessary and report to appropriate agency.
15. Other duties as assigned.

The following knowledge, skills, and abilities are required for an employee to successfully perform their duties.

1. Graduate of an accredited Vocational Nurse training program.
2. Valid and current California LVN license.
3. Two (2) years experience as a LVN preferred but not required in an outpatient office or ambulatory medical clinic.
4. Current certificate as a phlebotomist or verification of appropriate training.
5. Able to work collaboratively with multiple health professionals in a busy and complex environment using tact, and diplomacy.
6. Proven ability to provide excellent customer service by anticipating customer needs and leaving them feeling satisfied with their experience.
7. Excellent written and oral communication skills with the ability to adjust communication style from executive level, clinical and to the laymen
8. Versatility, flexibility, and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm as an innovative team player.
9. Knowledge of HIPAA/HITCH regulations and other privacy laws and regulation to provide confidentiality of all protected health and personally identifiable information.
10. Ability to think critically and provide relevant, realistic solutions to complex business problems.
11. Ability to use electronic health records and maintain current, accurate medical records, charts and health plans. Familiarity with Microsoft applications, such as Outlook, Excel, Word, & Teams.
12. Demonstrated competence in reacting to and handling high stress situations.
13. Exhibit leadership and communication skills to foster buy-in from stakeholders and gain/maintain credibility
14. Reliable transportation and adherence to regular attendance.

Native Preference. Northern Valley Indian Health provides Native Preference in hiring practices for qualified Native applicants, in accordance with its policy. NVIH is also an Equal Opportunity and At Will Employer.