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Benefits of Clinical Training for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs)
Skilled nursing facilities often care for residents with complex needs, including those with chronic illnesses, cognitive impairments, or multiple health conditions.
The specialized clinical training equips nurses to better address the unique care requirements of their residents. It enhances their ability to provide personalized, patient-centered care, improve safety measures, and efficiently manage challenging situations.
The following are common deficiencies related to LVN care at the skilled nursing facilities, that are noted in Medicare reports and need improvement:
- Documentation lapses.
- Medication errors, including allergies considerations.
- Communication problems regarding physician orders.
- Hand hygiene concerns.
- Oxygen handling concerns.
- Insulin administration issues.
- Needle safety techniques.
- Problems with edema care.
- Medication storage and maintenance concerns.
- Infection control issues, inconsistent COVID-19 precautions.
Clinical skills training helps LVNs to improve knowledge and skills in the following areas:
Patient-Centered Care:
Prioritizing the individual needs and preferences of each resident is key to quality care.
Training will enhance knowledge and skills related to personalizing care plans, respecting
cultural differences, and actively involving residents in decision-making.
Medication Management:
Ensuring the safe and accurate administration of medications is crucial. Training will
assist LVNs to continuously improve their knowledge of medications, side effects, and
interactions, and to follow best practices for medication administration.
Observation and Assessment:
Training improves LVNs' ability to recognize changes in a resident's condition, promptly
report them to the healthcare team, and accurately document symptoms.
Wound Care:
Clinical skills training improves LVNs' proficiency in wound assessment, prevention, and
treatment techniques that are vital for minimizing complications and promoting healing.
Pain Management:
Training helps to learn how to recognize signs and causes of pain in residents and to
support their comfort, while adhering to care plans.
Infection Control and Prevention:
Training will increase knowledge of infection control measures and will reinforce
adherence to hygiene protocols, that are crucial to prevent the spread of infections.
Dementia and Cognitive Care:
Training helps LVNs to improve their understanding of dementia care techniques and
strategies for communicating with cognitively impaired residents.
Teamwork and Collaboration:
Effective teamwork with other healthcare professionals, including CNAs and therapists,
is essential. Training will enhance LVNs' interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate in
a healthcare team.
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