Job Summary :
Responsible for all aspects of nutritional needs of dialysis patients. Will strive to fulfill the organization's mission, vision, values, philosophy and goals. Works closely with the interdisciplinary team members in order to care for the dialysis patient. Develops a close working relationship with other dietitians in order to facilitate information flow and educational efforts. Reports to designated supervisor.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Interviews patients (and others as relevant) for initial and update assessments
Assesses patient's initial and ongoing nutritional status
Calculates, prescribes and instructs others regarding diet for patients
Provides nutritional education to patient, caregivers and unit staff
Coordinates diet with other health care facilities and is involved in continuing communication with hospitals, extended care facilities, home health care agencies, senior centers and "Meals on Wheels" staff
Monitors adherence to diet
May make recommendations regarding phosphorus binder initiation, type and dosage changes, renal vitamins, stool softeners, oral iron products, cinacalcet and oral vitamin D analogs and calcium supplements
Reviews monthly labs with patient
Makes recommendations regarding nutritional issues, (e.g. alternate feeding route, tube feedings supplemental feedings) and monitors status
Provides crisis intervention, (e.g. response to panic values, hyperkalemia)
Monitors medication as it relates to drug-nutrient interaction
Participates in interdisciplinary patient care meetings with appropriate documentation on patient care plans
Participates in unit quality improvement meetings and activities
Active participation in GHS dietitian meetings and committees
Identifies and obtains nutritional resources
Functions as an integral part of the interdisciplinary health care team, making and receiving referrals and education awareness and utilization of existing educational materials; upgrades and develops new materials
Functions as a professional role model
Participates in professional development activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, professional memberships and professional reading, particularly as they relate to the field of nephrology
Maintain ADA registration through continuing education in field of nephrology
Participates in and facilitates kinetic modeling
May participate in protocol management
Makes recommendations to patients and team based on nutritional assessments/reassessments
May mentor Dietetic Interns as requested
Performs other duties as assigned
Education & Experience :
Requires Bachelor of Science in Nutrition
Requires completion of an approved dietetic internship
ADA Registered and minimum of 1 year professional experience as RD in clinical nutrition required
Additional Information