Patient Dining Associate | Palmetto General Hospital

Job Description

Job Description

Lemontree Healthcare is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Patient Dining Associate to join our dietary team. In this role, you will provide exceptional dining service to our patients, ensuring that their nutritional needs are met while also promoting a positive dining experience. This position involves working closely with patients, the dietary team, and healthcare staff to deliver meal services that adhere to dietary guidelines and patient preferences. 

Job Type: Full-Time Schedule: Monday-Friday and Weekends Rotating Shifts
Rate of Pay: $14.00

Key Responsibilities: 

• Meal Delivery and Assistance:
  • Deliver patient meals in a timely and courteous manner.
  • Assist patients with meal selection, modifications, and any dietary restrictions or preferences.
  • Ensure that all meals are served at the appropriate temperature and in accordance with individual patient needs.
  • Provide assistance to patients during mealtime, including help with cutting food, opening packages, or feeding assistance as needed.
• Patient Interaction:
  • Communicate with patients regarding meal preferences and dietary requirements.
  • Observe and report any changes in a patient’s eating habits or physical condition to the healthcare team.
  • Ensure patient comfort and satisfaction with their meals.
• Dietary Compliance:
  • Ensure that meals are served in compliance with prescribed diets and physician orders.
  • Work with the dietary team to modify meals according to patient needs, including allergies, preferences, and dietary restrictions.
• Cleanliness and Safety:
  • Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of dining areas, meal carts, and food service equipment.
  • Follow food safety guidelines to prevent contamination or accidents.
• Adhere to all health and safety protocols.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Work closely with nursing staff, dietitians, and kitchen staff to ensure the smooth delivery of patient meals.
  • Report any concerns or issues regarding patient nutrition or meal service to supervisors.
• Record Keeping:
  • Maintain accurate records of patient meal preferences, special diets, and modifications.
  • Assist in tracking meal delivery and patient meal logs.

Qualifications: 

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in a healthcare or food service environment is preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively and empathetically with patients, families, and staff.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Basic knowledge of nutrition and special dietary needs is a plus.
• Ability to lift and carry trays and meal delivery carts.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods and walk throughout the facility.

Physical Demands: 

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds regularly and push or pull up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment.

Working Conditions: 

• Work in a healthcare facility with patient interaction.
• May be required to work weekends, holidays, or evening shifts.

Benefits: 

• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Health Insurance
• 401k
• Paid time-off
• Paid holidays
• Referral program

Lemontree Healthcare policy is to provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, veteran status, status as a special disabled veteran, or any other protected criteria as established by federal, state, or local laws. Employment decisions at Easterseals are based solely upon relevant criteria, including an individual’s capabilities, qualifications, training, experience, and suitability.