Dietitian (Clinical)

Job Title

Nutritionist Duties

Conducts a comprehensive nutrition assessment utilizing the Nutrition Care Process (NCP) for assigned patients.

Develops and implements an individualized plan for Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) in accordance with the patient's medical program goals and objectives.

Performs a Nutrition Focused Physical Exam (NFPE) during assessments to determine risk and/or degree of malnutrition.

Assesses educational needs and provides nutrition education/counseling for individuals and groups, incorporating a learning approach that considers the cultural, religious, educational and medical situation of the patient. Includes information regarding budgeting, menu planning, food purchasing and preparation, food storage and sanitation.

Utilizes motivational interviewing techniques to evaluate patient and/or caregiver's readiness to learn and potential for changing behaviors.

Evaluates achievement of learning objectives by the patient and/or family. Adapts nutrition education materials and counseling techniques to the patient's level of understanding, which frequently involves simplifying complex dietary restrictions.

Maintains productivity standards. Practices effective time management, and prioritizing of tasks to ensure efficient workflow in assigned area.

Ensures completion of consult management tasks by reviewing assigned nutrition consults. Ensures appropriate scheduling and timely completion of all assigned consults.

Maintains accurate record keeping of daily clinical activities and completes patient encounters utilizing the Event Capture System (ECS).

Supports Performance Improvement activities by participating in the development of nutritional care indicators, evaluation criteria, collecting performance improvement data, monitoring outcomes, and initiating corrective actions.

Contributes to a culture of safety by entering patient safety concerns in the Joint Patient Safety Reporting System (JPRS).

Participates in planning and developing nutrition-related policies, procedures, and goals.

Assists in the review and revision of the Diet Manual, and menu analysis, as applicable.

Serves as a member of the VAMC inspection team for the state Veteran's homes, homeless shelters, and community nursing homes.

Serves as a liaison with foodservice staff to assure conformance to diet prescriptions.

May participate in community outreach activities.

Maintains dietetic registration and continuing education requirements.

Interprets current clinical knowledge, standards of care, and research to improve patient care.

Develops and implements an individualized plan for professional growth and development including participation in professional organizations and activities, workshops, seminars, and staff development programs.

Participates in departmental and/or interdisciplinary meetings, task forces, and projects.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 7:30am-4:00pm

Telework: Not Available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Functional Statement #: 02680F

Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized

US Department of Veterans Affairs