Hospice Nurse RN - Home Hospice

The RN assumes patient care responsibilities for individual patients including : Completing comprehensive physical assessment, pain assessment and management, symptom control management as it relates to terminal illness, coordination of Circle of Life services to the patient / family, completes required documentation (i.e. assessments, care plans, clinical notes, agency tracking forms, etc.) In a timely manner in accordance with COL policies, establishes a therapeutic nursing relationship with the Hospice patient / family / caregivers, provides weekend coverage and may assist during times of excessive nursing absenteeism.

Requirements : Current unrestricted AR RN license, BLS certification, strong assessment skills with critical thinking and high level of problem solving within a healthcare facility. Strong documentation and communication with the ability to stay calm and cope with human suffering / emergencies. Prefer hospice experience, home health, or acute care nursing experience with computer charting experience.

• Assumes primary responsibility for assigned patients and performs all phases of the nursing process.
• Communicates with attending physicians, staff members, and other agencies as necessary to coordinate optimal care and use of resources for patients / caregivers.
• Educates patients / caregivers regarding hospice philosophy, disease progression, physical components of care, stages of dying, and other aspects of the POC as necessary.
• Documents all patient related information according to policies and procedures.
• Seeks input from IDT members regarding the patient POC to obtain additional knowledge and support.
• Reviews and updates the POC at least every 60 days per regulatory standards.
• Regularly attends and participates in IDT meetings to ensure that the POC reflects current patient care needs.
• Prepares in advance for IDT meetings.
• Assesses need for Certified Nursing Assistant services.
• Conducts CNA supervisory visits per regulatory standards.
• Asses the need for and revises the CNA care plan.
• Informs the PCM of unusual or potentially problematic patient / caregiver issues as identified.
• Maintains annual clinical competencies.
• Identifies patients who may potentially revoke or need to be discharged.
• Models prompt and regular attendance.
• Exhibits cost effective use of time, mileage and supplies.
• Demonstrates familiarity with and adheres to policies and procedures, state, federal, and accrediting agency's requirements.
• Provides notification of absence per policy.
• Promotes and maintains respect for rights, privacy, and confidentiality of others.