Nutrition Assistant

Major Responsibilities: Obtains patient Room Service selections according to the diet prescription.

1. Anwers phone calls in a timely manner using AIDET techniques and key words to introduce self to patient and acknowledges the patient by name.
2. Obtains and enters patient meal orders into the CBORD computer system.
3. Verifies that meal selections are allowed within diet restrictions and makes alternative suggestions when choices do not meet diet guidelines.
4. Phones nursing units after patients on accuchecks or diabetic diets have ordered a meal.
5. Prints orders for tray assembly and delivery or schedules a print time.
6. Enters Behavioral Health paper menu selections into the CBORD system.

Ensures that all patients receive the correct diet. 5)Demonstrates a commitment to satisfying customer needs and exceeding customer expectations.

1. Processes computer diet orders sent via Care Connection and updates the CBORD computer system. Arranges for a tray to be sent as appropriate.
2. Enters supplements, nourishments, allergies, House Trays, Calorie Count, and other information into the computer as ordered.
3. Phones the Patient Care Unit, when needed, to verify unclear diet orders.
4. Prints House menus, reports, etc. at assigned times.

Provides late night meal service, when assigned.

1. Assembles patient meal trays in accordance with diet restrictions.
2. Delivers food trays to patients in a timely manner.
3. Works closely with the p.m. grill cook and the p.m. nutrition assistant to assure patient meals are processed and delivered in a timely manner.
4. Answers all incoming telephone calls from patients and associates.

Other clerical duties as assigned.

1. Completes the Ongoing Evaluation process for assigned patients. Refers nutrtionally compromised patients to the Registered Dietitian for assessment.
2. Provides patient census information to the kitchen.
3. Copies nutrition education materials, and Room Service paper menus as needed.
4. Processes patient charges/credits for supplements.
5. Completes assigned data collection for weekly reports.
6. Fills the printer paper drawer and puts in labels at assigned times.
7. Empties trash at the end of the night and as needed.
8. Assists with other duties such as assembling of silverware, putting stickers on cafeteria containers, etc.
9. Performs other duties as assigned.
10. Fills floorstock orders as assigned. Obtains needed food or supply items and assembles each order and places it in designated cooler until delivery.

Practices effective communication.

1. Schedules outpatient nutrition counseling appointments as assigned. Reminder calls are made the day prior to a patient's appointment.
2. Ensures satisfaction for all patients, families, and associates.
3. Routes orders for nutrition consults, nutrition education, and new enteral nutrition orders to the Registered Dietitian.
4. Takes and routes or handles messages appropriately.
5. Keeps supervisors informed as appropriate.
6. Communicates with nursing units as needed to clarify nutrition care orders.
7. Phones PCA once accucheck/diabetic patient orders.

Performance of all department activities in accordance with the department’s standards, policies and procedures as well as with Accrediting Organization and local Health Department Regulations.

1. Presents a neat and clean appearance while observing dress code, sanitation, hair covering and personal hygiene policies and procedures.
2. Observes safety regulations regarding the handling, operation and transportation of equipment.
3. Participates in departmental and area meetings and inservices.
4. Maintains a neat, clean, orderly and well organized work area.
5. Adheres to established safety and security guidelines.
6. Actively participates in department's Performance Improvement Plan and initiatives to improve key processes, key result areas and customer satisfaction.
7. Collaborates with hospital, department and fellow associates to exceed customer expectations.
8. Follows the Standards of Behavioral of the hospital.

Education/Experience Required: •High school diploma or equivalent. • 6-12mths of relevant experience. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

• Excellent customer service, human relations and phone skills. *Ability to operate a computer, phone, and copy machine
• None required.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: • May require sitting for approximately 70% - 80% of the shift. • May require the ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time. •May require some light to medium lifting (up to 20 pounds) •Ability to alternate shifts, weekends and holidays. Requires wearing a headset for the majority of shift. If position has direct patient care or direct patient contact the following lifting requirement supersedes any previous lifting requirement effective 06/01/2015. Ability to lift up to 35 pounds without assistance. For patient lifts of over 35 pounds, or when patient is unable to assist with the lift, patient handling equipment is expected to be used, with at least one other associate, when available. Unique patient lifting/movement situations will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.