LICENSED VOCATIONAL NURSE

Job Specifications

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

Definition

Under general supervision, to provide responsible nursing care to patients; to administer prescribed medications and treatments to patients; and to do other work as required.

Typical Tasks

Assists physicians and registered and public health nurses in examinations, operations and special procedures; prepares patients for examinations; applies and changes dressings; prepares examination and operating rooms; administers prescribed treatments and medications including injections; takes and charts patient's temperature, pulse, respiration and blood. pressure; enters treatment and medications administered in patient's charts; obtains information on medical histories, medication and symptoms; observes condition and behavior of patients and reports unusual occurrences or serious conditions to supervisor or physician; cleans and prepares instruments for sterilization; talks to patients about their problems and instructs patients on treatment and medication; collects specimen for laboratory analysis; maintains adequate equipment and supplies; assists in moving or directing patients within the clinic.

Special Requirements

Possession of a valid Vocational Nurse license issued by the California State Board of Vocational Examiners.

Employment Standards

Knowledge of:

• Thorough knowledge of practices and techniques of vocational nursing;
• Thorough knowledge of first aid, and sterile technique;
• General knowledge of medical terminology;
• General knowledge of use and care of nursing equipment and supplies.

and

Ability to:

• Competently apply licensed vocational nursing principles and techniques;
• Administer medications and injections;
• Provide sympathetic care;
• Keep accurate records and charts;
• Understand and carry out oral and written directions;
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Training and Experience Any combination of training and experience which would provide the required knowledges and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain these knowledges and abilities would be:

Completion of the course requirements for a vocational nursing license in an accredited college or university.

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