Hospice Admissions Registered Nurse

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Lighthouse Hospice is driven to provide a professional hospice workplace where the employee is respected and valued. We recognize that creating a culture of trust, kindness and appreciation is required to retain the best talent, dedicated to making a difference in the lives of the people we serve. Our team members all have one special thing in common. We deeply care for each other as much as we care for our patients and families. Each member of our team has been carefully chosen, not only for their exceptional skill set but also for their gifts of compassion and respect for others. We found that hiring people for this reason, combined with creating an environment where each individual can showcase their strengths, enables our team to achieve their highest potential. If you are searching for a great place to work, a place where you can make a real difference, where you can learn and grow with some of the best talent in the area, then we would love to speak with you!  

Job Title: Hospice Admissions Registered Nurse 

Job Summary: The Hospice Admissions RN is responsible for conducting comprehensive assessments, educating patients and families about hospice services, and ensuring a smooth transition into care. The Admissions RN serves as the first point of contact for patients entering hospice, providing expert clinical evaluation and compassionate support to meet their needs. Primary functions are to perform admissions and administer nursing care for patients of all ages in their place of residence, coordinate care with the Interdisciplinary Group/Team, patient/family, and referring agency; and assume the responsibility for coordination of care. 

Job Qualifications:

Education:  Graduate from an accredited Diploma, Associate, or Baccalaureate School of Nursing. 

Licensure: Current state license as a registered nurse (RN) and/or in accordance with the Board of Nurse Examiners rules for Nurse Licensure Compact. Current driver’s license. Valid and current CPR certification.  

Experience: Minimum of one year experience as a registered nurse in a hospice, palliative, or related field setting.  

Skills: Nursing skills as defined as generally accepted standards of practice. Good interpersonal skills. Specialized skills in palliation and end-of-life. Strong clinical Assessment and critical thinking skills. Excellent communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team. Compassionate, patient-focused approach to care. Must read, write, and comprehend English. 

Transportation: Reliable transportation and valid auto liability insurance. 

Environmental and Working Conditions:

Works in patients’ homes and facilities in various conditions; possible exposure to blood, bodily fluids, and infectious diseases; ability to work a flexible schedule; ability to travel locally; some exposure to unpleasant weather. On- call responsibilities may be required as part of the role. 

Essential Functions:

• Conduct initial assessments and admissions for hospice-eligible patients in various settings, including hospitals, nursing facilities, and private residences.
• Assess hospice patients utilizing the Nursing Assessment and LCD criteria to identify the physical, psychosocial, and environmental needs.
• Explain hospice services, goals, and philosophy to patients and families, ensuring informed decision-making.
• Obtain and review medical records to determine eligibility in accordance with Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance guidelines.
• Collaborate with physicians, referral sources, and interdisciplinary team members to facilitate timely and appropriate admissions.
• Develop an initial plan of care based on patient needs, coordinating with the hospice team for follow-up services.
• Conduct routine and as-needed visits, including on-call support, if needed. 
• Educate patients, families, and caregivers on disease processes, symptom management, nutrition, self-care techniques, and end-of-life care. 
• Provide emotional support, guidance, and education to families and caregivers. 
• Assist with end-of-life planning and grief support.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the electronic medical record (EMR). 
• Follow hospice philosophy, infection control protocols, and regulatory guidelines, including Medicare, Medicaid, HIPAA, and accreditation requirements. 
• Monitor assigned cases for compliance with third-party payor requirements.
• Participate in quality assessment and performance improvement (QAPI) initiatives. 
• Engage in hospice-sponsored training, in-service programs, and professional development. 
• Promote the hospice’s philosophy, policies, and best practices for high-quality patient care. 
• Demonstrate commitment to professional growth and competency through continuing education.

Benefits:  Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Referral Program, Paid Holidays, PTO Accrual, and 401(K).   

Physical and Mental Effort:

Prolonged standing and walking required, with ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and move patients. Requires working under some stressful conditions to meet deadlines and patient needs, and to make quick decisions and resource acquisition; meet patient and family individualized psychosocial needs. Requires hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.