LPN - Anticoagulation

GENERAL OVERVIEW

The Anticoagulation Nurse is responsible for the management of patients receiving anticoagulation therapy. This specialized role requires a deep understanding of anticoagulation medications, their indications, potential complications, and monitoring strategies. The Anticoagulation Nurse works closely with physicians and other healthcare providers to ensure safe and effective anticoagulation management, minimizing the risks of bleeding and thrombosis.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Patient Assessment and Management

• Enroll patients in anticoagulation clinic.
• Obtain and review patient history, including medical conditions, medications, and allergies, with a focus on factors influencing anticoagulation therapy.
• Assess patients for risk factors for bleeding and thrombosis.
• Educate patients and families about anticoagulation therapy, including medication purpose, dosage, administration, potential side effects, dietary restrictions, and drug interactions. Emphasize the importance of adherence to the prescribed regimen.
• Monitor patients' response to anticoagulation therapy, including reviewing INR (International Normalized Ratio) or other relevant lab values, and assess compliance.
• Adjust medication dosages within established protocols and in collaboration with the physician/provider, and route approved medication refills.
• Appropriately charge and code for INR interpretation.
• Manage patients experiencing complications related to anticoagulation, such as bleeding or thrombosis, according to established protocols and in consultation with the physician/provider.
• Provide patient-specific instructions regarding lifestyle modifications, including diet, exercise, and activities to minimize bleeding risks.
• Document all patient interactions, assessments, interventions, and outcomes accurately and thoroughly in the electronic medical record (EMR).

Collaboration and Communication:

• Send protime/INR orders to outlying labs.
• Collaborate with physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare team members to develop and implement individualized anticoagulation plans.
• Communicate effectively with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals regarding anticoagulation management.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Current and unencumbered Missouri Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license preferred. Consideration will be given to those with cardiology experience who are a Certified Pharmacy Technician, Certified Medical Assistant, or Registered Medical Assistant.
• Current BLS certification (Basic Life Support).
• ACLS certification (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) preferred.
• Previous experience in anticoagulation management or a related field (e.g., cardiology, hematology) preferred.
• Strong clinical skills and knowledge of anticoagulation principles.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and patient education skills.
• Proficient in using electronic medical records (EMR) systems. 
• High proficiency of general medical office procedures including HIPAA regulations.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL DEMANDS: Ability to sit or stand for 8 hours/day. Requires hand-eye coordination, finger dexterity. Vision must be corrected to 20/20 and hearing must be in normal range. Must be able to view computer screens, type on the computer,  and talk on the telephone for long periods of time.