Registered Nurse

Summary

Primary functions are to administer hospice care for clients of all ages in their place of residence, skilled nursing facilities, or assisted living facilities. Coordinate care with a multi-disciplinary team, patient/family and referring agency; and assume the responsibility for coordination of care. Works independently without on-site supervision.

Essential Functions

Demonstrates the ability to transfer scientific knowledge from social, biological and physical sciences in the application of the nursing process. Demonstrates knowledge and competency in performing baseline nursing skills as outlines in Agency policy and clinical policy; maintains clinical competencies according to home care standards; complies with state practice act. Administers all medications and treatments according to Agency policy, accepted standards of care and home care guidelines.

Performs accurate assessments, develops and implements a written Plan of Care with the patient, following physician’s orders and according to Agency guideline; performs and documents nursing interventions including patient education according to the Plan of Care and adapts these actions as patient needs change. Documents patient status in an accurate, timely and concise manner as required by Agency policy; addresses patient needs and problems, nursing interventions and patient response, safety interventions and education and teaching. Establish and maintain strong, positive relationships with referring physicians, and family of patients care plan.

Delegates responsibilities appropriately when supervising LVN and Aides Participates in case conference and/or team meetings. Compliance: Ensure all interactions and communications with referring physicians adhere to relevant healthcare laws and regulations. Provide support and comfort according to the hospice patient’s needs.

Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team to develop and implement individualized care plan. Educate patients and families on healthcare plan, symptom control, and end-of-life care options Makes visits as scheduled and participates in on-call rotation as required.

Additional

Responsibilities

Performs other duties as assigned or requested. Conforms to all applicable Agency policies and procedures. Participates actively in continuing education and in-services. Maintains confidentiality of patient information and business trade practices Assumes accountability for reporting incidents and complaints according to Agency policy.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

Organizational skills Ability to supervise in accordance with Agency’s policies and applicable laws. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community. Time management Cooperative attitude Advanced written and verbal interpersonal communication Basic math skills related to patient care.

Age-Related Competencies

Demonstrates the basic knowledge and skills necessary to identify age-specific patient needs appropriate for this position.

Information Management

Treats all information and data within the scope of the position with appropriate confidentiality and security.

Risk Management

• Cooperates fully in all risk management activities and investigations.

• Keeps abreast of changes in health care law.

• Maintains Agency/program compliance with local, state, and federal laws as well as state accreditation standards.

Minimum Position

Qualifications

Education

Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.

Experience

Two (2) years of experience as a Registered Nurse (RN) in a clinical setting preferred hospice.

License /

Certification

Current Valid State Nursing license (RN), Current CPR certification required

Driver’s license and proof of current auto liability insurance; no listing in the OIG Excluded Provider listing.

Environmental Conditions

Works in patients' homes in various environmental conditions, including homes with uneven flooring, stairs, limited space, and potential clutter or fall hazards. Possible exposure to blood and body fluids and infectious diseases. Ability to work a flexible schedule and travel locally, with some exposure to inclement weather. Moderate to high noise levels possible; tasks may involve moderate to significant stress and emotional demands, including end-of-life care situations.

Physical

Requirements

Prolonged standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and stooping required. Must be able to lift, transfer, and reposition patients safely, including assisting with patient mobility and physical care in confined or non-clinical home environments. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. independently.

Requires working under stressful conditions to meet deadlines, identify patient needs, make quick clinical decisions, and coordinate resource needs. Must be able to meet patient and family psychosocial needs, including in emotionally demanding situations. Requires hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.

Ability to operate and troubleshoot durable medical equipment (DME) in the home setting. Must be able to safely navigate home environments that may present physical barriers or safety risks.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities.