Position Summary

The primary purpose of your job position is to provide each of your assigned patients with personal care services in accordance with the patient’s nursing assessments and care plan, and as directed by your nurse supervisors.

Relationships

Reports to:  Director of Clinical Services

Relationships:  Interacts with IDT and administrative staff

Duties and Responsibilities

• Stewards the philosophy/mission of PH Healthcare which focuses on the overriding values of human dignity and respectful response to the needs of persons with life threatening/terminal and/or chronic illnesses.
• Participates with the IDG in the development and implementation of the patient/family’s plan of care.
• Perform all assigned tasks in accordance with Hospice policies and procedures, and as instructed by supervisor.
• Follow work assignments and/or work schedules in completing and performing assigned tasks.
• Make sure patient is as comfortable as possible at all times
• Changing bed linens when necessary and keep linens tight without wrinkles under the patient.
• Duties may include assisting patients with daily mouth care, bath functions, dressing/undressing, hair care functions, non-diabetic nail care, shaving, toileting, feeding, giving back rubs, assisting with exercises and ambulation, applying elastic stockings and/or heel/elbow protectors, checking intake/output records, checking bowel movements and character of stools, preparing and giving enemas, assist with lifting, turning, moving, positioning, and transferring into and out of beds, chairs, bathtubs, wheelchairs, lifts, etc., assisting with the care of the dying patient, providing post mortem care as instructed, observing and reporting the presence of pressure areas and skin breakdown, report injuries of unknown source, including skin tears, assisting with special treatments as instructed (i.e. indwelling catheter care, perineal care, nonsterile vaginal irrigation/douches, application of bandages, etc.).
• Document tasks performed and other comments related to visit.
• Communicate with family or facility staff to ensure nursing services can be adequately maintained to meet the needs of the patient.
• Create and maintain an atmosphere of warmth, personal interest and positive emphasis as well as a calm environment for the patient.
• Communicate with supervisor on regularly scheduled basis to assist in identifying areas of concern regarding patient care
• Report all complaints and grievances made by the patient/caregiver/family member.

Qualifications

Must possess, as a minimum, a high school diploma or GED.  Must be a licensed Certified Nursing Assistant in accordance with laws of South Carolina.  One year experience as a C.N.A. under supervision preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand the English language.
• Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.
• Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, patients, family members, visitors, government agencies, and the general public.
• Must possess the ability and willingness to work harmoniously with other personnel.
• Must have patience, tact, a cheerful disposition and enthusiasm, project warmth in the environment, as well as the willingness to handle difficult situations.
• Must not pose a direct threat to the health and safety of other individuals in the workplace.
• Must demonstrate effective technical skills in order to utilize cellular device for documentation purposes.
• Must have knowledge of HIPAA regulations and compliance.

Working Conditions

• Requires travel within the agency’s service area in personal automobile, therefore must have a current driver’s license, auto insurance, and have the ability to operate an automobile.
• Works in office area(s), the community and long term care facilities.
• Moves intermittently during working hours.
• Is subject to frequent interruptions.
• Is involved with patients, visitors, caregivers, family members, government agencies, etc., under all conditions and circumstances.
• Is subject to hostile and emotionally upset patients, family members, personnel, and visitors.
• Communicates with nursing personnel and other department personnel.
• Works beyond normal working hours, on weekends and holidays, when necessary.
• Is subject to call-back during emergency conditions.
• Attends and participates in continuing educational programs.
• Is subject to injury from falls, burns from equipment, odors, etc., throughout the work day, as well as to reactions from dust, disinfectants, tobacco smoke, and other air contaminants.
• Is subject to exposure to infectious waste, diseases, conditions, etc., including TB and the AIDS and Hepatitis B viruses.
• May be subject to the handling of and exposure to hazardous chemicals.
• Must be able to push, pull, move, and/or lift a minimum of 25 pounds to a minimum height of 5 feet and be able to push, pull, move, and/or carry such weight a minimum distance of 50 feet.