Job Description
The Registered Nurse (RN) is responsible for delivering compassionate, patient-centered nursing care to individuals with terminal illnesses. This role involves working closely with an interdisciplinary team to provide holistic support that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and their families.
Qualifications
  • Current Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state with the ability to practice professional nursing.
  • Graduate of a National League for Nursing accredited school of nursing.
  • Maintains current CPR certification.
  • Valid driver's license with reliable transportation.
  • Minimum of two years of nursing experience, with at least one year in public health, home care, or hospice nursing preferred.
  • Self-directed and able to work with minimal supervision.
  • Responsible for supervising hospice aides, though management experience is not required.
  • Demonstrates excellent observation, problem-solving, verbal, and written communication skills; nursing skills as per competency checklist.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize workload independently.
  • Physical ability to perform nursing tasks, including prolonged walking or standing, lifting, positioning, and transferring patients, as well as lifting supplies and equipment. Requires considerable reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, and/or crouching, with visual acuity and hearing to perform nursing skills effectively.
Responsibilities & Functions
  • Patient Assessment:
    • Conduct thorough assessments of patients' medical conditions, including physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs.
    • Evaluate patients' eligibility for hospice services.
  • Care Planning:
    • Develop and implement individualized care plans in collaboration with the interdisciplinary team.
    • Regularly update care plans based on patients' changing conditions and needs.
  • Symptom Management:
    • Administer medications and treatments as prescribed, ensuring effective pain and symptom management.
    • Monitor and document patients' responses to treatments, making adjustments as necessary.
  • Education and Support:
    • Provide education and support to patients and their families regarding end-of-life care, disease progression, and treatment options.
    • Assist families in understanding the hospice philosophy and available resources.
  • Collaboration:
    • Work closely with physicians, social workers, chaplains, and other team members to coordinate comprehensive care.
    • Communicate effectively with team members and families to ensure continuity of care.
  • Documentation:
    • Maintain accurate and timely documentation of nursing care, assessments, and patient interactions in compliance with regulatory standards.
    • Ensure that all clinical records are kept confidential and secure.
  • Compliance and Safety:
    • Adhere to all local, state, and federal regulations, as well as organizational policies and procedures.
    • Ensure a safe environment for patients and families, implementing infection control practices.
  • Family Involvement:
    • Involve family members in care discussions and decision-making processes, fostering open communication and support.
    • Provide emotional support and counseling to families coping with end-of-life issues.
  • Professional Development:
    • Participate in ongoing education and training to enhance clinical skills and knowledge of hospice and palliative care.
    • Stay informed about current trends and best practices in nursing and hospice care.