Hospice Homemaker

JOB DESCRIPTION Homemaker REPORTING RELATIONSHIP: Supervised by: Registered Nurse Positions Supervised: N/A Interrelationships: Patients, family, IDG and other health care team members JOB SUMMARY: To provide homemaker services to the terminally ill Hospice patient and family as needed, under the direction of the RN. To work as a member of the Hospice team in providing Hospice care within the guidelines of the IDG care plan. QUALIFICATIONS: Educational/Degree: High school diploma or GED. Training/Licensure: Completed Hospice orientation. Knowledge/Skills/Ability: Ability to work independently, make accurate, and at times, quick judgments. Ability to respond appropriately to crisis outside of a hospital setting. Acceptance of and adaptability to different social, racial, cultural and religious modes. Experience: Minimum 2 years of experience as a nursing assistant, preferred. Active patient contact within past three years, preferred. JOB FACTORS: Physical Requirements: Requires considerable physical effort most of the day including kneeling, squatting, reaching, twisting, climbing, walking and exposure to temperature and humidity changes. Must possess sight/hearing senses or use appropriate adaptive devices that will enable senses to function at a level required to meet the essential duties of the position. Must provide evidence of TB state-required tests or examinations. Mental Requirements: Must be able to work independently, make judgments and act accordingly. Must be flexible, innovative and possess good interpersonal skills. Must be able to cope with mental and emotional stress and demonstrate emotional stability. Working Conditions: Be able to tolerate exposure to elements including, but not limited to, odors, blood, body fluids and excrements, adverse environmental conditions and hazardous materials. Job Description – Homemaker….continued Transportation: Must have a current valid driver’s license, auto liability insurance and reliable transportation. Essential Functions: 1. Under the direction and ongoing supervision of the registered nurse, provides essential homemaker assistance to the patient and family: • Performing household services that are essential to the patient’s well-being at home. • Preparing meals including special diet. • Assists with shopping if the patient has no other resource available. 2. Provides emotional support and compassionate care to the patient and family unit. • Demonstrates listening skills. • Offers encouragement when appropriate. • Practices patience in voice and manner. 3. Maintains required competency and skills. 4. Reports any changes in the patient’s condition or family situation immediately by calling the Hospice office and notifying the RN. 5. Practices Standard Precautions according to OSHA regulations and policy. 6. Adheres to all policies and procedural guidelines. 7. Maintains current knowledge and practice of infectious disease protocols.