RN HOSPICE AFTER HOURS

General Purpose of Job:

The after hours Registered Nurse provides professional services for the care and treatment of patients out side of the normal business hours of Hospice. The Registered Nurse assesses, triages, and evaluates individual patient care needs according to Hospice Services departmental policies, procedures, and standards of care. The after hours registered nurse works from home problem solving patient care issues over the phone and makes necessary home visits for symptom assessment, resolution, and death pronouncements.

Essential Duties:

This job description is intended to cover the minimum essential duties assigned on a regular basis. Associates may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned by their leader. Leadership has the right to alter or modify the duties of the position.

• Available by phone and beeper to triage all after business hours patient care issues.

• Assesses patients condition, especially pain and symptoms, and then initiates appropriate nursing and/or medical care in accordance with established guidelines.

• Develops a plan of care based upon the assessment of the Hospice patient and in congruence with the medical diagnosis and treatment plan.

• Documents assessment, plan of care, and patient response in the patient's record. Communicates significant information and changes in patient's condition to appropriate members of the Hospice Interdisciplinary team, prior to end of shift and with updates as needed.

• Educates patient/family according to assessed need. Demonstrates good knowledge of Hospice philosophy and is able to communicate and educate Hospice program to patient/family and members of the interdisciplinary team.

• Assumes the mentor role for new after hours RN.

• Participates in planning, implementation, and evaluation of departmental quality improvement activities related to after hours patient care.

• Demonstrates knowledge and use of unit specific equipment and appropriate supplies used in the delivery for the highest quality patient care.

• Maintains knowledge of current trends in Hospice nursing and provides evidence of clinical competency.

• Maintains professional standards by participating in mandatory in-services and mandatory Home Hospice departmental requirements.

• Provides appropriate post-mortem care.

• Assists with the informed consent process as appropriate.

• Participates in bereavement assessment and bereavement activities as appropriate.

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  Participates in Hospice fund raising activities.