Job Description:
SUMMARY
The Admissions Nurse is responsible for assuring that Hospice programs are effectively represented to patients, families, and others who have an interest in hospice through pre-assessments, information sharing and/or admissions in a patient’s home or in a health care facility. This position works with the intake team, referring physician and other referral sources to promote the hospice philosophy of care.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
-Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Nurse Practice Act and in accordance with basic principles and guidelines of professional nursing.
-Provides information, pre-assessment, and admission services to patients who have been referred to hospice; conducting pre-assessment visits in the home or health care facility as necessary.
-Communicates with the Intake Department, the referring physician and Hospice Medical Director to assure appropriateness of each referral and that necessary certifications are obtained.
-Keeps the Intake Department informed about progress of referral/admission.
-Applies nursing principles and techniques in the treatment of patients. Provides nursing care, emotional support and education to patients and families. Encourages patients and family members to participate in the patient’s plan of care to meet established goals.
-Utilizes computer skills to access medication information and document in electronic medical record as required.
-Promotes teamwork by participating actively and appropriately as a member of an interdisciplinary team. Shares essential patient information with all members to coordinate care.
-Collaborates with other members of the IDT in coordinating care to be efficient and financially responsible.
-Makes appropriate referrals for other discipline services and medical equipment/supply companies to meet patient care needs in a timely manner. Coordinates care of patients with a variety of disciplines and community resources, both internal and external in a fiscally responsible manner.
-Completes and submits documentation within agency timeliness policies that is complete, legible, and clearly reflects care given.
-Provides hands-on nursing care for a diverse group of patients as assigned.
-Utilizes appropriate resources to maintain knowledge and skills for hospice care in all settings, including regulatory/reimbursement guidelines, and integrates into clinical practice.
-Participates in weekend, holiday, and on-call coverage as necessary.