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 direct supervision of a qualified renal dietitian, this position will provide nutritional services for the facilities in-center and home patients in order to gain the experience required by CMS until the year of clinical experience is completed to become a qualified dietitian. Actively participates in process improvements activities to enhance the likelihood that patients will achieve their individualized, patient‑specific goals as determined by the patient’s physician. The Dietitian in training would not be qualified to complete patient assessments, develop plans of care, or take responsibility for QAPI program review. Under direct supervision of a company Registered Dietitian (employee with a minimum of three years’ experience as a renal dietitian), supports the FMCNA commitment to the 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 with all customers in a timely manner. Calculates diet prescription according to standards of practice. Evaluates patient’s knowledge of diet and kidney disease. Completion of Nutrition History forms with patients to be used by CMS‑qualified dietitian to complete assessments. Provides patient‑specific education to patient, family or caregiver regarding nutritional status, adequacy measures and results, fluid status, and all nutrition‑related lab parameters pertaining to their disease process, keeping in mind the learning style and preferences of the patient. 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 physician and/or facility staff regarding lab results as appropriate. Communicates lab results and recommended treatment changes to providers of patient care in nursing facilities (i.e., hospitals, short‑term and long‑term care facilities). Monitors adherence and response to nutrition therapy. Addresses issues impacting the patient’s ability to achieve the 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. Involves patient, family and caregiver in improvement goals. When appropriate, identifies candidates to refer to physician for nutritional supplements as per disease management agreements. Assist 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 interdisciplinary team, ensuring that all work areas are safe and clean. Collaborates with 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 American Dietetic Association and state licensure regulations where applicable. Other nutrition services duties as assigned. Escalates issues to supervisor for resolution, as deemed necessary. Assist 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 characteristics described here 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. 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. Travel to training clinics as well as regional, business unit and corporate meetings may be required.

SUPERVISION

None

EDUCATION AND REQUIRED CREDENTIALS

Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition or a directly related field, Master’s degree preferred. Registered Dietitian as per Commission on Dietetic Registration. Current state licensure if applicable.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

Less than one year’s clinical experience. Hourly Rate: $24.00 - $46.00 Benefit Overview: This position offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and parental leave. Fresenius Medical Care maintains a drug‑free workplace in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr Fresenius Medical Care