Associate Dietitian

Purpose and Scope A Registered Dietitian in training with less than one year of clinical experience will work directly with a qualified dietitian under the direct supervision of a registered renal dietitian. This position will provide nutritional services for both in‑center and home patients to gain the experience required by CMS. The dietitian in training participates in process‑improvement activities to help patients achieve individualized goals. The role does not include completing patient assessments, developing plans of care, or taking responsibility for QAPI program review. The position supports the FMCNA Quality Enhancement Program (QEP). Principal Duties and Responsibilities Responsible for driving the company culture through values and customer service standards. Accountable for outstanding customer service to all external and internal customers. Develops and maintains effective relationships through timely communication. Take initiative and action to respond, resolve and follow up regarding customer service issues in a timely manner. Calculates diet prescription according to standards of practice. Evaluates patients’ knowledge of diet and kidney disease. Completes Nutrition History forms with patients for CMS‑qualified dietitians to complete assessments. Provides patient‑specific education to patients, families or caregivers regarding nutritional status, adequacy measures and results, fluid status, and all nutrition‑related lab parameters, keeping in mind learning style and preferences. Reviews nutrition‑related lab results: Counsels patient and/or caregiver and formulates appropriate action to assist patient in achieving and sustaining an effective nutritional status. Communicates lab results and recommended treatment changes to the interdisciplinary team as appropriate. Communicates with physicians and/or facility staff regarding lab results as appropriate. Communicates lab results and recommended treatment changes to providers of patient care in nursing facilities (e.g., hospitals, short‑term and long‑term care facilities). Monitors adherence and response to nutrition therapy and addresses issues impacting the patient’s ability to achieve goals. Reviews each patient’s albumin level and body weight at least monthly. Identifies malnourished patients as well as patients at risk for malnutrition and works collaboratively with the interdisciplinary team to identify appropriate interventions, resources or solutions, involving patients, families or caregivers in improvement goals. When appropriate, identifies candidates to refer to physicians for nutritional supplements as per disease‑management agreements. Assists with fluid and volume management of patients. Provides fluid and sodium education as appropriate. Collaborates with the interdisciplinary team on management and recommendations for mineral metabolism and renal bone disease, anemia and iron status, nutritional status, psychosocial status, vascular access, modality, rehabilitation status and sodium/volume control. Participates in Quality Assessment and Performance Improvement and Plan of Care meetings with a CMS‑qualified dietitian. Attends all other pertinent staff meetings as applicable. Collaborates with the interdisciplinary team, ensuring that all work areas are safe and clean. Collaborates with the interdisciplinary team in pharmacy‑related responsibilities including setup, enrollment and management. Participates in lobby days. Educates patients in emergency preparedness as it relates to food and nutrition. Conducts staff in‑services as needed or requested. Adheres to FMCNA algorithm and medical record policies. Maintains and improves knowledge and skills for a competent and innovative practice. Maintains dietetic registration and continuing education hours as specified by the American Dietetic Association and state licensure regulations where applicable. Performs other nutrition services duties as assigned. Escalates issues to supervisor for resolution as deemed necessary. Assists with various projects as assigned by direct supervisor. Performs other related duties as assigned. Physical Demands and Working Conditions The physical demands and work environment described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The work environment is characteristic of a health‑care facility with air temperature control and moderate noise levels; employees may be exposed to infectious and contagious diseases/materials. Day‑to‑day work includes desk and personal computer work, and interaction with patients, facility staff and physicians. The position may require travel between assigned facilities and various locations within the community, including training clinics and regional, business‑unit and corporate meetings. Supervision None. Education and Required Credentials Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition or a directly related field; Master’s degree preferred. Registered Dietitian credential as per Commission on Dietetic Registration. Current state licensure, if applicable. Experience and Skills Less than one year of clinical experience. Compensation and Benefits Hourly rate: $24.00 – $43.00, depending on work location and qualifications. Benefit overview: This position offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k) with company match, paid time off, parental leave, and for bonus‑eligible positions, potential performance‑based bonuses. #J-18808-Ljbffr