GENERAL SUMMARY:

Under the supervision of the Clinical Director, the Registered Nurse oversees primary caseload of Hospice patients and provides skilled professional nursing care to them, their families and caregivers as prescribed by the physician and in compliance with the Hospice Medicare Conditions of Participation, Pennsylvania Hospice licensure laws and agency policies and procedures. Provides the initial assessment and comprehensive nursing assessment of patient needs and collaborates to develop the Hospice Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) plan of care. Implements the plan of care and reevaluates and revises the plan of care relative to the patient’s nursing needs to provide appropriate, comprehensive and responsive goals and interventions. Works closely with other members of the IDT to ensure all patient and family care needs are being met. Provides supervision to Hospice Aides/Homemakers.

Type of supervision exercised: none. Jobs reporting to this position: none.

EDUCATION:

Graduate of an accredited Nursing Program required.

Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing preferred.

Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse (CHPN) certification preferred.

WORK EXPERIENCE:

Has minimum of one (1) year general nursing preferred with current hospice, home health, medical, surgical or critical care experience.

Experience with pain and symptom management interventions preferred.

Ability to work within an interdisciplinary setting.

Understanding of Hospice philosophy, principles of death/dying.

SPECIAL EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of a current license as a Registered Nurse issued by the Pennsylvania State Board of Nurse Examiners required.

Must be cleared by PA State Police criminal history check.

Valid PA driver’s license and available transportation during all working hours required.

Maintains regular attendance.

Functions independently, but seeks and accepts guidance from other members of the IDT and members of the community, as deemed necessary and appropriate.

Conducts all business activities in a professional and ethical manner.

Demonstrates the highest degree of customer awareness by seeking opportunities to identify and meet the needs of internal and external customers.

Treats each person as an individual with respect and dignity.

Is receptive to questions and criticism, and willing to offer assistance.

Demonstrates genuine concern and empathy.

Maintains accountability for patient satisfaction throughout the episode of care.

Displays a willingness to utilize problem-solving techniques to ensure appropriate interventions and resolutions.

Must maintain a professional attitude and demeanor and be able to communicate effectively and relate courteously and cooperatively with patients, caregivers, colleagues, supervisors, co-workers and all others.

Must be able to demonstrate optimism, enthusiasm and willingness to work constructively with other health care team members and reflect concern for the well-being of patients and employees.

Interacts with all staff in a positive fashion supporting the mission and vision of the organization.

Visual/hearing ability must be sufficient to comprehend written/verbal communication.

Needs excellent verbal communication skills.

Able to effectively manage stress.

Possess Manual dexterity sufficient for writing, keyboarding and telephone operation

Must maintain confidentiality of patient information.

Consistently performs all of the above in a friendly, courteous manner.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Position involves bending, reaching, stooping and lifting (occasionally in strained position) throughout shift. Ability to transport self throughout facility is required. Must be able to travel to patient’s homes as required.

ACCIDENT OR HEALTH HAZARDS:

Occasional exposure to blood and body substances.

Exposure to needle sticks possible.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Works in a well-lit office environment and in varying conditions in patient homes (where conditions may be less than desirable).