OPS LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE - 64955384

$37,440 - $41,600/Yr

State of Florida - Haines City, FL

Full-time - Entry Level

Haines City, FL

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The OPS Licensed Practical Nurse position at the Florida Department of Health in Polk County is a vital role aimed at supporting the mission to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida. The incumbent will work primarily at the Haines City Clinic and will be involved in various immunization outreach programs across Polk County. This position requires a commitment to the agency's values of Innovation, Collaboration, Accountability, Responsiveness, and Excellence in all aspects of work. The nurse will be responsible for providing childhood and adult immunizations, maintaining proper storage and handling of vaccines, and offering counseling and educational information regarding vaccines to clients and their guardians. Additionally, the nurse will assist in other clinic programs such as OB, Family Planning, STD, and Adult Health, under the supervision of a Registered Nurse or Physician. The role involves a variety of responsibilities including the assessment and administration of immunizations according to CDC and VFC protocols, maintaining accurate records of immunizations, and ensuring compliance with health department policies. The nurse will also be expected to perform routine diagnostic tests, assist with medical procedures, and maintain medical records in accordance with health department standards. The position may require bilingual skills to serve clients who speak Spanish, Creole, or other languages, and may involve interpreter duties as needed. The nurse will also participate in staff development activities and assist in the orientation of new employees and volunteers. Overall, this position is crucial in enhancing public health initiatives and improving immunization rates within the community.

Responsibilities

• Provide childhood/adult immunizations at the Haines City Clinic.
• Maintain proper storage and handling of vaccines per Health Department policy and procedures.
• Provide counseling and teaching information regarding administered vaccines to clients and/or their guardians.
• Assist in other clinic programs (OB, Family Planning, STD, and Adult Health) under the direction of a Registered Nurse or Physician.
• Assess, educate, and administer adult/childhood immunizations according to protocol.
• Accurately complete immunization records and documentation required by Health Department policy.
• Enter immunization history and immunizations given into Florida Shots.
• Order vaccines as needed and monitor expiration dates.
• Monitor temperature controls for vaccine storage and maintain appropriate logs.
• Serve as a resource leader for public and private sector vaccine providers.
• Interview and assist clients with specific medical problems or routine health care needs.
• Assist ARNP and physician with examinations and medical procedures.
• Perform routine diagnostic tests and procedures, including taking vital signs and collecting specimens.
• Report unusual symptoms of clients to the clinic charge nurse or physician.
• Document client information in EHR records according to Health Department standards.
• Administer IM medications as per provider's orders and assist in maintaining medication inventory.
• Clean work area according to clinic policy and biohazardous waste policy.
• Maintain accurate and complete medical records.
• Assist with case management of clients and make referrals for follow-up treatment.
• Assist in the lab to process specimens and follow up on lab reports.
• Perform inventory and ordering of supplies, medications, and vaccines.
• Sterilize instruments in accordance with Health Department policy and procedures.
• Participate in orientation and staff development activities.

Requirements

• Licensure as a practical nurse in accordance with Chapter 464, Florida Statutes or eligibility to practice nursing in accordance with Florida Administrative Code 210-8.22 or 8.27.
• Knowledge of nursing principles and techniques.
• Knowledge of immunizations and time schedules.
• Knowledge of human anatomy and physiology.
• Knowledge of basic computer software and electronic health records.
• Skill in the use of medical equipment and instruments used in providing nursing care.
• Skill in performing various lab testing.
• Ability to demonstrate manual dexterity.
• Ability to administer medications.
• Ability to work with patients and interpret medical instructions.
• Ability to observe patient's symptoms and reactions to treatment.
• Ability to keep accurate records and communicate effectively.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Must have a valid Driver's License.

Nice-to-haves

• Bilingual skills to assist clients who speak Spanish, Creole, or other languages.

Benefits

• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan (mandatory)
• Participation in state group insurance (upon meeting eligibility requirements)
• Workers' Compensation (mandatory, if needed)
• Reemployment Assistance (Unemployment Compensation) (mandatory, if needed)
• Deferred Compensation (voluntary)
• Employee Assistance Program (voluntary)