Description

Directs and supervises social service program. Evaluates the social needs of each patient admitted and formulates a written plan of care. Reviews and revises plan as necessary, but not less often than quarterly. Refers patients and families to appropriate community resources as necessary. Responsible to the Administrator.

1. Plans and organizes a social service program according to established policies.

2. Assists in the coordination of resident transfers.

3. Handles telephone calls and interviews each patient and family on admission.

4. Coordinates services with other departments.

5. Completes a Social History on each patient.

6. Identifies and evaluates personal, emotional and environmental concerns.

7. Formulates a written plan of care for each admitted patient.

8. Reviews and updates plan of care according to established policies.

9. Records continuing progress notes on the patient's social needs and response of the patient to delivered social services.

10. Responsible for the Discharge Plan.

11. Assesses spiritual needs and facilitates participation in religious activities.

12. Participates in the development and review of the Total Care Plan.

13. Assists with the development of a community volunteer program.

14. Conducts annual in-service on social services for all staff.

15. Assists in coordinating the Resident Council.

16. Helps open and read incoming mail, and helps address and post outgoing mail upon the patient's request.

17. Assembles and maintains a store of information on community resources and helps other staff to use these accordingly.

18. Gives assistance or help in locating and arranging for services of other professionals or agencies to solve problems and needs of patients.

19. Participates regularly in case conferences with nurses and other staff to assist in better understanding the patient and his family.

20. Helps needy patients and families locate funds for dentures, glasses, etc.

21. Participates in pre-admission screening of prospective patients whenever possible.

22. Conducts facility tour and orientation for new patient and family.

23. Listens to the residents.

24. Performs other tasks as assigned by Supervisor.

Qualifications

1. Must have a genuine interest in the elderly.

2. Must exercise patience and tactfulness.

3. Possess good listening skills.

4. Must be able to execute a social service program appropriate to the needs and interests of the patients.

5. Must have a knowledge of special needs and limitations of elderly.

6. Is able to recognize and identify situations in which problems are such that referral is indicated.

7. Has sufficient understanding and self-discipline to relate to the patients'needs and feelings.

8. Has an interest in learning and advancement.

9. Possess the ability to work congenially with others.

10. Must be able to work hours as assigned by the Administrator.

11. Must have a pre-employment and an annual tuberculosis screening examination.