Hospice Nurse Practitioner: Compassionate End-of- Care

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Complementing attending physician care;
• Acting as a medical resource person to the IDG;
• Performing face-to-face visits as needed;
• Evaluating hospice eligibility as assigned in consultation with the hospice interdisciplinary team.; and
• Assuring that the patient receives appropriate measures to control uncomfortable symptoms.

Collaborating with the IDG to ensure the needs of the patient are met. Supporting clinical and administrative staff in providing compassionate quality care. Ensuring that the patient meets the medical criteria for hospice admission based upon available diagnostic and prognostic indicators, related diagnoses if any, current subjective and objective medical findings, current medication and treatment orders, information about the medical management of any of the patient’s conditions unrelated to the terminal illness.

Reviews clinical information, coordinates and oversees patient care in consultation with the hospice interdisciplinary team and other healthcare practitioners. Ensuring the provision of direct medical services to patients either directly or through arrangements, as appropriate, in the absence of the patient’s attending physician. Attending IDG conferences, as needed. Participating in plan of care development and managing oversight of medications and treatment.

Documenting care provided in the patient’s clinical record providing evidence of progression of the end-stage-disease process. Maintaining current knowledge of the latest research and trends in hospice care and pain/symptom management. Working in a team approach with the IDG. Participating in performance improvement programs, as indicated. Reviewing and developing protocols for treatment and proposing the most current options for interventions.

Demonstrating knowledge in communications and counseling patient/family in dealing with end-of-life issues. Participating in resolution of interpersonal conflict and issues of clinical and ethical concern.

Position requires deadlines and timelines required by governing and regulatory organizations. It requires minimal lifting of office records and printouts. Sitting, standing, stooping and walking, as well as telephone communication are required. Face-to-face visits may entail moderate physical exertion and car travel. Travel may be required, by car or airplane to local, out-of-town or state seminars, conferences or meetings. Hearing, eyesight and physical dexterity must be sufficient to perform a physical assessment of the patient's condition and to perform and demonstrate patient care.

Adhering to regulations, standards and conditions of participation required by Medicare, accrediting body, and federal and state statutes governing the provision of services.

Utilization of a computer, multi-line telephone, copy machine, and other office and basic medical equipment.