The Clinical Dietitian serves as the Food and Nutrition Services representative in patient care activities. Responsible for providing basic nutrition assessments and care planning for patients. Performs as a member of the interdisciplinary team responsible for the design, coordination and implementation of optimal nutritional care and education of patients/staff in accordance with established standards of care. Complies with business practices to uphold the hospitals mission and values.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES:
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Performs nutritional assessments and implements plans of care using age-appropriate standards of care, utilizing validated assessment tools and includes nutrition related diagnosis when indicated.
- Monitors and evaluations patient response to medical nutrition therapy using specific goals and determines if changes in the plans of care are indicated.
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Provide nutrition counseling and/or education to patients and care givers based on assessment of individual learning needs.
- Work in partnership with interdisciplinary team and participates in patient care rounds.
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Educates medical staff, dietetic students, and entry level dietitians in the nutritional management of patients.
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Participates in unit, department and/or facility committees/ meetings.
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Collaborates and communicates with the culinary team and clinical departments on established processes, nutrition care, special diets and menu requests.
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Maintain high level of competency and professional development related to nutrition trends, research, policy, certifications, and standards of practice.
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Ensures compliance with all federal, state and local regulations and department/ hospital policies and procedures (e.g. HIPAA/ Privacy act, safety, operations, personnel).
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Participates in performance improvement programs related to patient care to improve department processes.
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Proactively assists in the implementation of patient related programs and development of departmental standards of nutritional care.
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Provides community education/ public speaking as requested.
