A licensed practical nurse is a health care provider who provides basic medical care to patients in clinics, hospitals, and other care facilities. They often work directly with Registered Nurses to help with various tasks and provide support. Nursing technicians can also be called nursing assistants and certified nursing technicians (CNT). In this role, the individual takes care of a patient’s basic health and cleanliness needs.
Nursing technicians have a number of tasks for which they are responsible. They interact directly with patients in various healthcare settings, including inpatient and outpatient clinics, hospitals and medical clinics. Some of its main duties include observing patients, checking vital signs, and dispensing medications. As they are responsible for cleanliness and the basic health needs of patients under their care, nursing technicians can also help with basic hygiene care. They can heal injuries, assist with medical procedures, report medical problems to nursing staff, and prepare rooms for admissions. A nurse technician can also maintain cleanliness in the patient’s environment by changing sheets, making the bed, removing trays of food, and maintaining a clean work environment for the other healthcare professionals who will administer care and treatment. If the patient is leaving the room to perform a surgery or examination, the nursing technician can accompany him to ensure his safety and arrival at the correct place. Some nursing technicians assist in carrying out laboratory tests, including sample collection and labeling, and provide assistance during the examination and/or treatment.
Nurse technicians need certain skills to be successful, including:
– The ability to understand infection control standards and follow safety protocols to ensure patient protection;
– Strong oral and written communication skills;
– Attention to detail people skills;
– The ability to perform minor procedures and take care of patients’ needs.
Most nursing technicians work in hospitals, inpatient units, outpatient clinics and medical clinics. The job may involve physically lifting and supporting patients who are unable to stand or walk. Nursing technicians spend most of their shift standing, walking and standing. They may be exposed to potentially hazardous materials, so this role may require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Practical nurses typically work under the direct supervision of registered nurses and interact with other members of the health support team, including physicians. They must be able to follow instructions and work quickly and efficiently in high-pressure situations.