Licensed Practical Nurse Clinical Instructor

Description

Job Summary: 

The LPN Clinical Instructor for the Nursing Assistant program provides hands-on clinical training to students, preparing them for careers as Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs). This role involves supervising students during clinical rotations, teaching essential nursing skills, and ensuring students develop the competence and confidence needed to deliver patient-centered care. The Instructor works closely with students in real-world health care settings to reinforce classroom learning, emphasize safety protocols, and build a foundation of professionalism in nursing practice.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Clinical Instruction & Supervision:

• Provide direct supervision and instruction to students during clinical rotations in health care facilities, ensuring adherence to safety and patient care standards.
• Demonstrate and teach essential nursing assistant skills, including patient hygiene, feeding, vital signs monitoring, ambulation, and proper body mechanics.
• Monitor student performance and provide constructive feedback to improve skills, efficiency, and patient care.

1. Patient Care Skills Development:

• Train students in effective communication, teamwork, and compassionate care when interacting with patients and their families.
• Emphasize the importance of patient safety, privacy, and comfort, ensuring students understand infection control and emergency procedures.
• Teach students how to recognize and report changes in patients 'conditions, documenting observations and following reporting protocols.

1. Hands-On Training & Simulation:

• Conduct simulation exercises and practice labs that enable students to apply theoretical knowledge in controlled, hands-on practice sessions.
• Guide students in the proper use of medical equipment, such as blood pressure monitors, thermometers, and patient transfer aids.
• Ensure students demonstrate competency in skills required for CNA certification exams, providing additional practice and review as needed.

1. Compliance & Safety Protocols:

• Ensure that students understand and follow OSHA, HIPAA, and other regulatory guidelines while delivering patient care.
• Educate students on the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), infection control procedures, and facility policies to maintain a safe environment.
• Monitor adherence to clinical site policies and address any breaches in protocol immediately.

1. Student Assessment & Progress Evaluation:

• Observe and assess student performance during clinical rotations, tracking progress in skill development, professionalism, and patient interaction.
• Provide regular feedback on strengths and areas for improvement, assisting students in achieving competency and confidence.
•  Document student progress, maintain accurate attendance records, and prepare evaluations for the program director as required.
• Certification Preparation & Exam Readiness:
• o Prepare students for CNA certification exams by ensuring mastery of all required skills, knowledge, and procedures.
• Conduct mock skills exams and provide practice opportunities for students to build familiarity with the certification exam format.
• Advise students on the certification application process, answering questions and offering guidance on exam logistics and requirements.
• Collaboration with Faculty & Health Care Facilities:
•  Maintain open communication with clinical site staff to ensure students adhere to facility expectations and deliver quality care.
• Address any clinical site concerns regarding student performance and implement improvements as necessary.
• Professional Development & Mentorship:
•  Serve as a mentor and role model for students, demonstrating professionalism, ethical standards, and patient-centered care
• Attend faculty meetings, training sessions, and professional development workshops to stay current on best practices in nursing education.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Current LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) license in the state, with a minimum of 2 years of clinical experience in a health care setting.
• Experience in long-term care, acute care, or home health care settings.
• Previous teaching or clinical training experience, particularly with nursing assistant or vocational programs preferred.
• Strong knowledge of nursing assistant skills, patient care protocols, and health care regulations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and motivate students.
• High level of professionalism, empathy, and commitment to high-quality patient care and student success.

Key Competencies:

• Strong clinical skills and expertise in nursing assistant procedures
• Ability to instruct, supervise, and evaluate students effectively
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities
• Knowledge of state CNA certification requirements
• Patient-centered teaching approach with a focus on safety and quality care
• Ability to collaborate with faculty and clinical partners