OVERVIEW:
Within the context of a client and family centred care and, in alignment with the mission, vision, values and strategic directions of Vancouver Hospice Society, the incumbent promotes a safe and respectful working environment for patients, clients, families, visitors and staff.
Reporting to the Clinical Coordinator and under the direction of the Registered Nurses (RNs), and in accordance with hospice/palliative care standards, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) assesses, identifies, plans, implements and evaluates the nursing care of patients to meet their physical, social, spiritual and psychological needs at end of life. The LPN works within a clinical framework for hospice palliative care and in accordance with the BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) Standards of Practice that are consistent with the mission, vision and values and established practices and protocols of Vancouver Hospice Society (VHS).
In providing professional, respectful and compassionate patient care, the Licensed Practical Nurse adopts a holistic approach to care by considering the needs and wishes of the patient, family members and loved ones to support the patient’s journey and provide quality end-of-life care to the patient and their family as one unit of care.
PRIMARY ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES, include but are not limited to:
- Demonstrated clinical knowledge and understanding of principles involved hospice/palliative care practice, and the ability to lead nursing care team in the provision of excellent end-of-life care to patients at the hospice.
- In depth understanding of pharmacology for management of common symptoms in end-of-life care (e.g. opiates and analgesic ladder, anti-emetics, sedatives and other psychoactive medications, etc.)
- Ability to work independently and as a collaborative member of a multidisciplinary team in a palliative care environment.
- Ability to supervise the work of care aides and contribute to the nursing care team on daily basis.
- Effective interpersonal skills, with direct and open verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to interact with individuals at all levels and in sensitive situations.
- Provides a supportive environment for patient/client/family. Promotes patient/client/family involvement in health care decisions; provides information and opportunity to discuss concerns; respects personal choices.
- Contributes to the development and ongoing changes to the individualized plan of care, including attending and providing input into multidisciplinary care planning meetings and family conferences.
- Provides nursing care according to identified policies and procedures, technology and VHS standards and evaluates outcomes. Records observations and reports problems and/or changes to designated staff.
- Performs admissions, discharges, and transfers of patients/clients according to VHS operating policies and procedures.
- Documents and updates all relevant care and procedure information to ensure patient/client safety and comfort.
- Operates and maintains effective functioning equipment related to patient/client care such as oxygen concentrators, suction, CADD pumps, pleurX and mechanical lifts.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education
Graduation from a recognized program for Practical Nurses. Registration with the BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) as a practicing LPN registrant. Current basic cardiac life support certification.
Experience
Two (2) years recent, related hospice or palliative nursing experience in a similar environment or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Basic understanding of the Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) process and administration is an asset.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Understanding of principles of end-of-life care for patients and families.
- The ability to work comfortably within a hospice or palliative care environment.
- Effective interpersonal skills and good written and verbal English communication skills.
- Ability to interact with individuals at all levels and in sensitive situations.
- Ability to establish and maintain appropriate professional and personal boundaries.
- Ability to provide excellent care to end-of-life stage patients.
- Demonstrated ability to be patient, kind, empathetic and compassionate.
- Demonstrated critical thinking and decision-making skills.
- Demonstrated ability to appropriately deal with stressful and emotional situations.
- Demonstrated ability to receive and work under direction and supervision.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.
- Ability to be resourceful and solution focused.
- Excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks and adjust as required.
- Demonstrated ability to ask for help in providing patient care when required.
- Physically fit and able to perform the duties of the position.
- Available to work shift work including days, evenings, nights and weekends as required.
- Demonstrated knowledge and ability to perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) procedures.
- Ability to operate related equipment.
- Ability to work as a member of an interdisciplinary team.
- Ability to apply decision-making and analytical skills
- Ability to role model conflict resolution strategies.
- Ability to prioritize and organize work.
All employees and volunteers must abide by and model the mission, vision and values of VHS to ensure a safe and optimal environment for patients, families, visitors, staff and volunteers.
In accordance with the Criminal Records Review Act, employees and volunteers must provide VHS with a current Criminal Records Check (CRC), for vulnerable populations. CRC’s must be renewed every 5 years. In addition, all employees and volunteers must sign a Confidentiality Agreement.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent
Pay: $32.84-$41.35 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision care
Application question(s):
- Are you legally authorized to work in Canada?
Licence/Certification:
- Licensed Practical Nurse registration with BCCNM (preferred)
Work Location: In person
