Licensed Vocational Nurse (NOC Shift LVN) - Hospice

As a Licensed Vocational Nurse at Mission Hospice of San Diego, your primary responsibilities include providing direct patient care as outlined in the State Nurse Practice Act, implementing nursing practices based on comprehensive assessments, and documenting patient services accurately. You will also educate patients and families regarding diagnosis and self-care, coordinate with the Hospice services, manage pain and symptoms, and participate in personal and professional development while contributing to quality improvement initiatives.

To apply for the Licensed Vocational Nurse position at Mission Hospice of San Diego, candidates must be graduates of an accredited practical nurse or vocational nursing program. Additionally, three years of nursing experience are preferred, particularly in community/home health or medical/surgical settings. Applicants must be a currently licensed LPN/LVN in the State, possess effective communication skills, be a licensed driver, and maintain CPR certification while understanding the needs of terminally ill patients.

Mission Hospice of San Diego is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that values diversity. They actively combat discrimination and advance equity through their hiring practices and organizational culture. The organization encourages applicants from historically underrepresented groups to apply and embraces diverse perspectives, thus building a team that reflects the communities they serve and ensures every employee has the opportunity to thrive.

The starting salary for a Licensed Vocational Nurse at Mission Hospice of San Diego begins at $36 per hour, depending on the individual's experience. This competitive compensation reflects the specialized skills required for providing high-quality end-of-life care, along with the significant responsibilities associated with the position.

During the hiring process for the Licensed Vocational Nurse position at Mission Hospice, candidates can expect an inclusive and accessible approach. The organization strives to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to present their qualifications effectively. If you require accommodations at any stage due to a disability, Mission Hospice is committed to meeting your needs. You will likely go through an interview process that evaluates both your professional skills and alignment with the organization’s inclusive culture.

In answering this question, reflect on specific examples from your past positions that demonstrate your experience with end-of-life care. Describe the types of patients you have cared for, the challenges you encountered, and how you provided comfort and support to families during this critical time.

When discussing difficult conversations in a hospice setting, highlight the importance of empathy and active listening. Provide an example of a situation where you had to communicate challenging news and how you approached the conversation with sensitivity, ensuring that the patient's needs and families' feelings were prioritized.

Highlight the role of a care plan as a guiding document for providing personalized care. Stress that it outlines the patient's needs, preferences, and the strategies in place to meet their goals, contributing to improved decision-making and overall patient satisfaction. Provide an example of a time when you adapted the care plan to better serve a patient.

Discuss various pain management techniques you've implemented in your past roles, such as the administration of medication, non-pharmacological methods, or holistic approaches. Describe your ability to assess the patient's pain levels and modify therapies based on their feedback to enhance comfort.

Discuss your experience with communication tools or strategies used to engage with an interdisciplinary team. Mention the importance of regular meetings, documentation, and being open to collaborative feedback that facilitates comprehensive care for the patient.

Share your approach to family education regarding the hospice process. This may include providing informational materials, answering questions, and scheduling time to discuss their loved one's care plan while addressing any concerns they may have about end-of-life decisions.

Acknowledge that working in hospice can be emotionally challenging. Describe personal strategies you employ, such as seeking support from colleagues, practicing self-care, and engaging in professional development discussions to process experiences and maintain your emotional health.

Discuss the importance of cultural competence in nursing, especially in hospice care. Share experiences where you adapted care to meet the cultural values and beliefs of patients, ensuring that their preferences are honored while maintaining respect and understanding.

Share your personal philosophy on hospice care, emphasizing dignity, comfort, and respect for the patient's wishes. Connect your beliefs to the practicalities of nursing, explaining how they guide your interactions with patients and their families.

In answering this question, connect your personal values to Mission Hospice's mission and culture. Mention your admiration for their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and quality end-of-life care, and express enthusiasm about contributing to a supportive team dedicated to making a positive impact.