RN|UM HEALTH-SPARROW HOME HOSPICE

General Purpose of Job:

The Registered Nurse provides professional services for the care and treatment of patients. The Registered Nurse assesses, plans, implements, and evaluates individual patient care in a nursing department according to Nursing Services departmental policies, procedures, and standards of care. Accepts responsibility for the supervision and direction of co-workers in the implementation of the nursing care plan.

Essential Duties:

This job description is intended to cover the minimum essential duties assigned on a regular basis. Caregivers may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned by their leader. Leadership has the right to alter or modify the duties of the position.

• Assesses patient's condition, especially pain and symptoms, and then initiates appropriate nursing and/or medical care in accordance with established guidelines.
• Develops a plan of care based upon the assessment of the Hospice patient and in congruence with the medical diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Documents assessment, plan of care, and patient response in the patient's record. Communicates significant information and changes in patient's condition to appropriate members of the Hospice Interdisciplinary team.
• Delegates, directs, and supervises implementation of care plan to LPN, Home Health Aides / PCTs, or other members of the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT). Communicates significant information and changes in patient's condition to appropriate members of the Hospice Interdisciplinary team.
• Educates patient/family according to assessed need. Demonstrates good knowledge of Hospice philosophy and is able to communicate and educate Hospice program to patient/family and members of the interdisciplinary team.
• Assumes the mentor role for new Associates and students.
• Participates in planning, implementation, and evaluation of departmental quality improvement activities.
• Demonstrates knowledge and use of unit specific equipment and appropriate supplies used in the delivery for the highest quality patient care.
• Maintains knowledge of current trends in Hospice nursing and provides evidence of clinical competency. Maintains professional standards by participating in mandatory in-services and mandatory Hospice Services departmental requirements.
• Provides for and instructs other staff on appropriate post-mortem care and transport of body.
• Assists with the informed consent process as appropriate.
• Participates in bereavement assessment and bereavement activities as appropriate.
• Participates in Hospice fund raising activities.