Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Extern

This externship program offers graduates of state-approved nursing programs a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience and mentorship alongside licensed nurses in a long-term care setting. As an LPN Extern, you will work as an integral part of the nursing team, learning essential skills and daily routines required to become a licensed Practical Nurse while providing outstanding care to residents. This is a temporary role designed to jumpstart your nursing career before licensure.

Responsibilities

• Shadow nursing staff and learn essential skills and daily routines
• Communicate and collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to ensure personalized care plans for each resident
• Take responsibility for learning and understanding the care needs of all residents under your supervision
• Conduct rounds and verify that care plans are being followed to deliver the highest quality care
• Assist with writing and updating resident assessments and care plans, and gain insight into the MDS and Quality Indicators
• Accurately document all physician orders, whether verbal or written, and notify the Unit Clerk to schedule necessary appointments
• Complete precise and honest documentation, including nurse charting (Daily Scheduled, MDS, Medicare, Charting by Exception, lab/diagnostic results) and completion of all assigned MDS assessments
• Provide a thorough and accurate handoff report to the oncoming shift nurse
• Ensure accuracy in your work and handle central supply items properly by scanning them for each resident
• Report any errors immediately to the ADON/DON for timely correction
• Immediately report any suspected abuse or neglect to the DON, ADON, or Administrator

Required Qualifications

• Graduate of a state-approved nursing school
• Must pass the NCLEX exam for licensure within 30 days of hire
• Must secure a current Arizona State Board nursing license within 60 days of hire
• Knowledge of medical terminology, safety procedures, and infection prevention protocols
• Knowledge of emergency/disaster response and evacuation protocols
• Knowledge of resident rights, along with recognizing and reporting abuse and neglect
• Ability to operate tools, equipment, and materials used in resident care
• Ability to maintain safety standards and follow safety protocols
• Ability to communicate instructions both orally and in writing with clarity
• Ability to utilize a computer and specialized software applications for resident care
• Ability to recognize and act upon any changes in a resident's condition, notifying the nurse for proper care
• Ability to identify situations beyond your scope and know when to ask for guidance
• Ability to demonstrate sensitivity and professionalism when interacting with residents and their families
• Ability to adhere strictly to your scope of practice and the Arizona State Board of Nursing Rules and Nurse Practice Act
• Ability to operate diagnostic equipment effectively
• Ability to build collaborative relationships with colleagues, residents, and family members
• Ability to read, write, and follow instructions with accuracy and efficiency
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, manage stress, and adapt to dynamic work environments
• Ability to uphold facility policies and procedures

Licenses and Certifications

• Current CPR certification (must be kept up to date)
• Arizona Department of Public Safety Fingerprint Card (obtained and maintained at your own expense)
• Arizona State Board nursing license (required within 60 days of hire)

Additional Requirements

• Attend mandatory nursing meetings and continuing education sessions
• Complete annual Tuberculosis Testing
• Finish 12 hours of required annual in-service training
• Comply with all federal, state, and local communicable disease testing mandates