Summary
The primary purpose of the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) GS-7 performs more complex nursing assignments within their setting. The LPN possesses comprehensive practical nursing knowledge and skills in specialized procedures and practices.
Duties
The LPN GS-7 work, is of considerable difficulty and responsibility is performed under general supervisions. Individuals in these positions are to a considerable extent, expected to exercise independent technical judgments and to possess and apply a comprehensive working knowledge of the principles, art, and science of practical nursing. Employees at this grade level demonstrate broader knowledge skill with respect to these responsibilities than employees at lower grades. The LPN GS-7 is responsible for goals and interventions that promote Veteran in attaining maximum functional potential. This is accomplished through but not limited to modalities such as ambulation, bowel and bladder training, dressing, grooming, bathing, oral hygiene, range of motion exercises and fall prevention modalities. The GS-7 is expected to be able to function at the fully successful level for all key elements at the GS-6 Level. The LPN GS-7 is a full performance functional level for the LPN/LVN occupation for providing practical nursing care with a variety of physical and/or behavioral problems. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: Possesses the knowledge and skills to carry out more specialized patient care activities. This knowledge base includes the use of Veteran care data to initiate active contributions to the Veteran's overall health plan. Observations of Veteran's present status is made, and interventions implemented to improve, restore, or maintain the optimal function of the Veteran. Has knowledge of program regulations and is able to carry out objectives of the Nursing program. In doing this, follows the guidelines to meet and maintain program requirements. Contributes to the development of the plan of care for assigned Veterans outlining program modalities and updates per policy and as changes occur. This plan of care is completed with general review and co-signature by the RN, and/or HCP utilizing a broad knowledge base and expertise to develop and modify treatment plans to meet the Veteran and the family's expectations. Promotes and demonstrates nursing concepts in the area of care. Works in collaboration with the RN, and/or HCP. Prepares and administers prescribed medications (oral, topical, subcutaneous, Intramuscular, and/or intravenous) and performs treatments according to established policies/procedures. The LPN GS-7 observes for physical and/or emotional changes in patient's health condition, which may include prescribed medications/treatments, to promptly and accurately documenting identified changes, and reporting any deviations from normal to RN and/or HCP. Assists other staff to prioritize the overall Veteran (patient) care needs and adjusts the plan of care as needed. Demonstrates astute assessment skills, which allow for observation of obvious and subtle changes in the Veteran health condition. Responds diligently to the Veteran changes and deteriorating condition in emergent situations, notifying appropriate personnel in a timely manner. Is adept at encouraging and communicating with challenging psychological and physical behaviors to promote optimal functioning. Uses treatment modalities and implements appropriate practices and procedures with complex patients. Utilizes skills to influence and communicate with difficult and challenging Veterans and families. Demonstrates the ability to work independently without the need for readily available supervision and communicates effectively with the Veteran, families, caregivers, professionals, and other supportive staff. Demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform treatments, procedures and the use and reprocessing of reusable medical equipment appropriate to assigned duties. Exhibits skill, creativity, and initiative by contributing to the overall Veteran care delivery, and improving satisfaction, through active participation on committees, task forces and groups. Work Schedule: TBD Location: 32nd Street Clinic Telework: Ad-hoc at Supervisors discretion Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
Requirements
You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
Education
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
How you will be evaluated
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position. It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment. Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.