Admissions Nurse

Hospice of Humboldt Jobs•Eureka, CA

11d•$45 - $55•Onsite

About The Position

The Admissions Nurse coordinates the timely and appropriate admission of patients to hospice care. The role conducts clinical assessments, evaluates hospice eligibility in collaboration with the interdisciplinary team, and supports a seamless transition into hospice. The position is based at the Main Office in Eureka, California, offers a 32- or 40-hour-per-week option, and requires daily local driving. The nurse coordinates with physicians, intake team members, case managers, discharge planners, referral sources, patients, and families. The role explains hospice services and supports informed decision-making, coordinates medical, psychosocial, and spiritual services with interdisciplinary team members according to patient acuity, and makes referrals to volunteer and grief support services as needed. The Admissions Nurse completes accurate and timely admissions documentation, verifies required consents, certifications, and physician orders, and maintains electronic medical records in accordance with Medicare Conditions of Participation and applicable state regulations. The schedule requires four weekend shifts per month or schedule period. The nurse is expected to complete two admission visits per scheduled shift, subject to patient volume and other operational factors, and may take on alternative clinical assignments as directed by the Clinical Manager.

Requirements

Graduate of an accredited nursing program; an ASN or BSN nursing degree is listed in the job details.
Current California Registered Nurse license.
At least one year of professional nursing experience within the previous three years, or equivalent experience in a BSN program.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Critical-thinking ability and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to build and maintain supportive relationships with referral sources, coworkers, and supervisors.
Compassionate, patient-centered approach to care.
Proficiency with electronic medical record systems.
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
Ability to work four weekend shifts (four days) per month or schedule period.

Nice To Haves

Experience in palliative care, hospice, or home health.
Experience working effectively with an interdisciplinary team.
CHPN certification.

Responsibilities

Conduct initial clinical assessments for referred patients.
Evaluate eligibility for hospice services in accordance with regulatory and organizational guidelines.
Complete admissions documentation accurately and within required timeframes, and initiate the plan of care in collaboration with the hospice interdisciplinary team.
Coordinate timely admissions with physicians, intake team members, case managers, discharge planners, and referral sources.
Communicate hospice philosophy, services, expectations, goals of care, and available support to patients and families; address questions and concerns sensitively and professionally.
Support continuity of care during transitions from hospitals, home health, or other care settings.
Raise concerns about the appropriateness of admissions and request an Admissions Advisory Group review when necessary.
Participate in interdisciplinary communication and handoff processes.
Ensure admission documentation meets Medicare Conditions of Participation and applicable state regulations; maintain complete and timely electronic medical records; and verify required consents, certifications, and physician orders.
Coordinate medical, psychosocial, and spiritual services with interdisciplinary group members according to patient acuity, and make referrals to volunteer and grief support services as needed.
Complete two admission visits per scheduled shift, subject to patient volume, geographic considerations, and referral flow.
Adapt to fluctuating assignments and workload, and perform alternative assignments as directed by the Clinical Manager, including pre-admission chart reviews, inpatient unit or visit nursing coverage, and other clinical support activities.
Maintain a team-oriented approach that prioritizes patient needs and organizational operations.
Work four weekend shifts (four days) per month or schedule period.