Under general supervision assists in a variety of paraprofessional nursing tasks.
This class is intended for use in an institutional setting at the South Carolina Department of Mental Health, the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs, the South Carolina Department of Corrections, the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice and the South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department, but should not be used for all nurses at those agencies. The use of the institutional classifications should be limited to those who provide care in an inpatient setting involving high-risk/high-acuity patients. Employees in this class perform work under the supervision of an advanced practice registered nurse, registered nurse, licensed physician or other practitioner authorized by SC law to supervise the practice of licensed practical nurses.
Carries out established healthcare procedures. Administers oral, subcutaneous and intramuscular medications following departmental policies and procedures and records significant responses to administered medications. Monitors transfusions. Hangs and monitors infusions. Takes and records temperature, pulse and respiration of patients. Tests vision and hearing of patients. Draws blood and smears for testing. Performs triage activities. Assures OSHA and other regulatory standards are met Participates in medical team conferences and quality assurance/continuous quality improvement activities. May supervise the work of nursing assistants or other subordinate healthcare personnel in the performance of duties.
Knowledge of practical nursing procedures. Knowledge of sanitation, personal hygiene, basic health and safety practices. Knowledge of the human anatomy. Ability to maintain attention to detail. Ability to make accurate technical and physical observations of patients. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to maintain accurate medical documentation. Knowledge of relevant federal and state regulations and laws. Ability to work effectively with people from a variety of socioeconomic, racial, ethnic and educational backgrounds. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with members of the healthcare team. Ability to lift and move patients.
Positions in this classification require licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse by the State Board of Nursing for South Carolina. May require basic life support skills including CPR, AED use, and ventilations. Some positions may require possession of a valid driver’s license.
Successful completion of a registered nursing education program for professional nursing or an equivalent course of study from a registered nursing education program per Section 40-33-32 of the South Carolina Nurse Licensure Act.