Palliative Care Registered Nurse (RN)

The Palliative Care Registered Nurse (RN) supports VITAS Healthcare's growing palliative care program within the assigned service area. Coordinates care for assigned patients and provides expert, individualized support to patients and families. Completes initial and on-going comprehensive physical and psychosocial assessment of the patient and family to identify needs and areas for intervention. Ensures appropriate referrals to specialists when indicated and supports adherence to treatment plan. Assists patients in accessing appropriate services and resources in the community. Educates patient and family to enhance understanding of disease processes and plan of care. Provides emotional support and counseling to patients and their families. Evaluates the patient's physical and emotional recovery after treatment. Empowers patients to take control of their health care by encouraging appropriate goal-setting and discussions about advance care planning. Partners with healthcare team to manage transitions of care between hospital, primary and specialty care. Facilitates proactive discharge planning or follow-up to promote better outcomes, decreased length of stay and reduced readmission rates.