Lpn, Indigenous Health Liaison

Please Note:
Detailed Overview:
Reporting to the Coordinator, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) plans and evaluates health care needs and wellness services for Indigenous clients in community and hospital settings, within the scope of practice and professional and practice standards established by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM), and consistent with Fraser Health (FH) policies and procedures. Facilitates connections between Indigenous clients and service providers to enhance access to FH and community services with a culturally safe approach. Shares knowledge of and promotes Indigenous cultural protocols and practices within health service environments.

**Responsibilities**:

- As a member of the Indigenous Health Liaison team, contributes to the development of a culturally safe client care plan. Interviews and screens client by gathering information from various sources. Assesses and monitors client's strength and limitations including physiological, psychological, and spiritual needs. Clarifies client and family expectations, and acts as an advocate on their behalf. Facilitates, coordinates and provides support for appropriate services consistent with care plan. Forwards necessary information to appropriate community/services/agencies. Supports client in navigating health, social and other community services, as requested.
- Supports acute care discharge planning and refers to appropriate services, as required. Communicates with, and obtains assistance from, appropriate community agencies and services to ensure the best possible care for client and families after discharge.
- Consults with Indigenous Health Liaison Registered Nurse regarding clinical practice, as required.
- Provides health counselling to clients including education, self-management and self-monitoring, as well as wellness/health promotion/prevention.
- Provides a supportive environment for clients and families. Promotes client and family involvement in health decisions by facilitating strategies to increase the client's understanding of the care plan and available services. Provides information and opportunity to discuss concerns. Respects personal choices.
- Shares information with health care staff, service providers and community agencies to enhance knowledge of Indigenous Health services available, and Indigenous cultures and health beliefs.
- Provides information on community and agency services available for Indigenous peoples. Maintains knowledge of community health services and resources.
- Collaborates with care providers, client, family, other health care professionals, hospitals and other community resources to identify and resolve client care issues, and coordinate the integration of care and services within the context of Indigenous Health services.
- Maintains related records, documentation and statistics in accordance with established policies, standards and procedures.
- Maintains professional practice growth, knowledge of Indigenous cultures and health beliefs, knowledge and expertise to reflect current standards of practice by reviewing relevant literature, attending educational workshops and in-services, consulting and networking with other health care professionals.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
**Education and Experience**

Current practicing registration as a Licensed Practical Nurse with the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM).

One (1) years' recent, relevant nursing experience. Knowledge of Indigenous health approaches, protocol and cultural issues.

Valid BC Driver's license and access to a personal vehicle for business-related purposes.

**Skills and Abilities**
- Comprehensive knowledge of Indigenous cultures, health beliefs, and community resources and agencies.
- Comprehensive knowledge of the BCCNM standards for LPN nursing practice.
- Demonstrated ability to provide culturally sensitive care to Indigenous populations.
- Ability to implement a plan of care.
- Ability to plan, organize and prioritize work.
- Ability to problem solve.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to deal with others effectively.
- Demonstrated ability to complete initial and ongoing client assessments, and provide nursing care within a culturally safe context.
- Knowledge of broad health care services and community resources agencies available for Indigenous clients, and their role in providing a continuum of care.
- Broad knowledge of health promotion principles and practices, and the determinants of health.
- Ability to teach clients and others about topics essential to Indigenous health and wellness.
- Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing priorities.
- Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.