GENERAL SUMMARY:

Responsible for all aspects of nutritional needs of dialysis patients. Will strive to fulfill the organization's mission, vision, values, philosophy and goals.

Works closely with the interdisciplinary team members in order to care for the dialysis patient. Develops a close working relationship with other dietitians in order to facilitate information flow and educational efforts. Reports to designated supervisor.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

A. Interviews patients (and others as relevant) for initial and update assessments.

B. Assesses patient's initial and ongoing nutritional status.

C. Calculates, prescribes and instructs others regarding diet for patients.

D. Provides nutritional education to patient, caregivers and unit staff.

E. Coordinates diet with other health care facilities and is involved in continuing communication with hospitals, extended care facilities, home health care agencies, senior centers and "Meals on Wheels" staff.

F. Monitors adherence to diet.

G. May make recommendations regarding phosphorus binder initiation, type and dosage changes, renal vitamins, stool softeners, oral iron products, cinacalcet and oral vitamin D analogs and calcium supplements.

H. Reviews monthly labs with patient.

I. Makes recommendations regarding nutritional issues, (e.g. alternate feeding route, tube feedings supplemental feedings) and monitors status.

J. Provides crisis intervention, (e.g. response to panic values, hyperkalemia).

K. Monitors medication as it relates to drug-nutrient interaction.

L. Participates in interdisciplinary patient care meetings with appropriate documentation on patient care plans.

M. Participates in unit quality improvement meetings and activities.

N. Active participation in GHS dietitian meetings and committees.

O. Identifies and obtains nutritional resources.

P. Functions as an integral part of the interdisciplinary health care team, making and receiving referrals and education awareness and utilization of existing educational materials; upgrades and develops new materials.

Q. Functions as a professional role model.

R. Participates in professional development activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, professional memberships and professional reading, particularly as they relate to the field of nephrology.

S. Maintain ADA registration through continuing education in field of nephrology.

T. Participates in and facilitates kinetic modeling.

U. May participate in protocol management.

V. Makes recommendations to patients and team based on nutritional assessments/reassessments.

W. May mentors Dietetic Interns as requested.

X. Other duties as assigned.