Licensed Practical Nurse (35 Hour)

The State of Connecticut, Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) is a health care agency whose mission is to promote the overall health and wellness of persons with behavioral health needs through an intergrated network of holistic, comprehensive, effective, and efficient services and supports that foster dignity, respect, and self-sufficiency in those we serve.  

The DMHAS, Connecticut Mental Health Center (CMHC) is currently recruiting for a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Acute Inpatient Unit 4th and 5th floors, 34 Park Street, New Haven, CT.  This position is 3rd shift, full time, 72/72/80 rotating schedule every other weekend and holidays 11:30 p.m. - 8:00 a.m.    

The LPN works under the supervision of a Registered Nurse, in providing general care and treatment of patients; receives handoff report at change of shift, may assist RN in assignments, administers medications including insulin injections; documents medications using appropriate forms.  This LPN role may also include conducting inpatient groups, such as community meetings, orientation sessions, healthy living groups and medication education. Participates in revising Master Treatment planning, assist in team  in collaboration of self-care activities for identified deficits in ADL’s on a continuous basis and throughout hospitalization.  Effectively communicates ongoing and updated clinical and/or program information through attendance and participation in team meetings, shift report, committees, and task forces.

NOTE: Please ensure that your application is complete and you have included your resume in the 'Resume Tab' of your application.  You will be unable to make revisions once you submit your application into the JobAps system.  Individuals considered for interview will be required to submit additional documentation supporting their qualification(s) for this position.  These documents may include performance reviews, attendance, supervisory references, college transcripts, licensure, etc. You do not have to attach these documents to your application submission.  

Questions about this recruitment should be directed to Andrew Pebley, MHA-DMHAS-Recruitment@ct.gov (203) 974-7434.

In a state facility, this class is accountable for rendering bedside care or mental health services to individuals with physical and/or intellectual disabilities in instances where the services of a registered nurse are not required.

Assists doctors and nurses in the general care and treatment of individuals; measures doses and administers medications including insulin injections; documents medications using appropriate forms; performs narcotic counts; checks and may administer intravenous medications; reports changes in individuals to doctors; ensures that restraints are applied correctly; transcribes doctors medication orders; dispenses certain medications in doctor’s absence; applies topical medication; takes and charts temperatures, pulses and respirations; performs simple nursing treatments; monitors general individual needs including personal hygiene; reports on individual conditions and behavior; keeps the unit safe and healthy; administers enemas or suppositories; performs Foley catheterization care; orients individuals concerning medications and their use; may perform emergency first aid; may drive individuals to necessary appointments/outings; performs related duties as required.

DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES: performs the full range of duties as described in the class specification for the Lead Developmental Services Worker.

DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION SERVICES: performs the full range of duties as described in class specifications for the Mental Health Assistant 1 or Mental Health Assistant 2.

Knowledge of practical nursing specialties and bedside care; knowledge of various medications used in conjunction for the care of individuals who have physical and/or intellectual disabilities; knowledge of infection control practices; some knowledge of nutrition and diets; basic knowledge of medical and lab sciences; considerable interpersonal skills; ability to keep records; some ability to lead staff.

License or temporary permit to practice nursing in Connecticut by the State Board of Examiners for Nursing.

DEPARTMENT OF DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICES: Incumbents in this class may be required to possess and retain a valid Connecticut Motor Vehicle Operator's license, Public Passenger Endorsement or Commercial Driver's license for designated positions.

Incumbents in this class may be required to lift/restrain individuals; may have some exposure to communicable/infectious diseases and to some risk of injury from assaultive/abusive individuals; may be exposed to disagreeable conditions.

AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The State of Connecticut is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and strongly encourages the applications of women, minorities, and persons with disabilities.