JOB SUMMARY:
The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) supports the health and medical needs of children, adolescents, and young adults receiving services in both educational and residential programs. Under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN), the LPN provides direct medical care, administers medications, ensures accurate documentation, and responds to health-related emergencies. The LPN collaborates with internal teams, healthcare providers, and guardians to coordinate care and implement individualized health plans for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).
WORK SCHEDULE:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 2PM - 10PM
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Provide or obtain essential medical services and assessments for individuals across settings.
- Monitor and document vital signs, health conditions, medication effects, and emergency interventions.
- Administer medications as prescribed and maintain accurate medication records in accordance with state regulations.
- Maintain complete and compliant medical records, including physicals, immunizations, allergy alerts, and provider orders.
- Implement and follow care plans developed by healthcare providers and supervising RN.
- Render first aid and respond to medical or psychiatric emergencies, arranging emergency care when necessary.
- Collaborate with physicians, consulting healthcare providers, and guardians regarding student/resident health care needs.
- Participate in interdisciplinary meetings, treatment reviews, and educational planning (e.g., PPTs, case reviews) as needed.
- Observe and document all incidents involving physical restraint to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
- Support the distribution and monitoring of first aid supplies in classrooms, homes, and program sites.
- Educate individuals on hygiene, wellness, and health routines in alignment with care plans and program goals.
- Ensure emergency health information and medication documentation is current and accessible.
- Display professional behavior and positive role modeling when interacting with individuals and staff.
- Communicate with parents/guardians about medical updates, appointments, and recommendations.
- Provide medical coverage and support across program sites as assigned by the Nursing Supervisor or Director of Nursing.
- Provide individuals with transportation to medical and other related appointments.
- Maintain active certification in agency-approved crisis intervention training, including all required levels of Physical and Psychological Management Training (PMT). Apply training techniques appropriately to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals served, staff, and others in the environment. Demonstrate competency in de-escalation strategies, safe physical interventions, and adherence to agency protocols.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:
SKILLS:
- Accurate documentation and use of electronic medical records
- Effective communication with interdisciplinary teams, guardians, and individuals served
- Organization and time management across multiple clinical priorities
- Responsive and calm performance in emergencies and crisis situations
- Basic computer and documentation system proficiency
- Conflict resolution and empathetic, person-centered communication
KNOWLEDGE:
- Practical nursing theory, ethics, and scope of LPN practice
- Medication administration standards and documentation protocols
- Common psychiatric and medical conditions affecting youth with ASD and IDD
- Infection control practices and emergency medical response procedures
- Basic principles of nutrition, hygiene, and lab science relevant to nursing practice
- State health regulations, education, and human service licensing standards
ABILITIES:
- Work independently while adhering to supervision and medical protocols
- Follow physician and RN orders with consistency and attention to detail
- Provide health support across educational and residential environments
- Collaborate effectively with diverse professionals and families
- Uphold confidentiality and professional standards in all situations
- Physically assist individuals in daily care and emergency response as needed
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:
- Graduate of an accredited nursing program
- Current and valid LPN license in the State of Connecticut
- Minimum 2–3 years of nursing experience preferred, ideally with youth or behavioral health populations
- Experience in both educational and/or residential programs preferred
- Strong documentation and communication skills
- Certification in First Aid, CPR, and PMT (provided upon hire)
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record; may be required to drive agency vehicles
- Must meet all background, health screening, and licensing requirements
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Work is performed in school and residential program settings
- Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and assist with mobility or medical emergencies
- Frequent walking, standing, and active care required
- Exposure to communicable illnesses and behavioral incidents requiring calm and effective response
- Must be physically able to perform all requirements of PMT and other crisis protocols
A job description is not meant to be all inclusive of every task and/or responsibility
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
