Chaplain (PRN)

Arkansas Hospice, Inc.•Monticello, AR

About The Position

The Chaplain provides spiritual support and counseling to patients and families in a manner appropriate to their wishes and belief systems and consistent with Arkansas Hospice policies and procedures. The role may also include community outreach activities. The Chaplain assesses spiritual needs, develops plans of care, provides bereavement support, collaborates with staff and community clergy, and contributes to staff and community education. This position is designated as safety sensitive because it regularly involves confidential or proprietary Arkansas Hospice and patient information.

Requirements

Graduate of an accredited seminary or school of theology, or appropriate certification in hospital or pastoral care ministry.
At least three years of pastoral care experience.
Valid Arkansas driver’s license, car, and car insurance.
Knowledge of and acceptance of hospice philosophy and principles of care.
Ability to organize and prioritize work to meet deadlines.
Ability to be open, sensitive, flexible, and ecumenical in responding to the needs of staff, patients, and families dealing with life-threatening illness and death.
Ability to provide counseling to individuals and groups.
Ability to recognize positive and negative aspects of death and grief.
Effective oral and written communication skills.
Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and other customers.
Ability to follow basic safety policies and procedures.
Good judgment and ability to maintain confidentiality.
Ability to work as a team player.
Tact, resourcefulness, patience, and dedication.
Ability to accept direction and adhere to policies and procedures.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Pastoral care experience in hospice, home health, a hospital, or another healthcare setting is preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide direct spiritual support and counseling to patients and families in keeping with their beliefs.
Follow up on spiritual and bereavement needs identified through social worker psychosocial assessments or the Chaplain’s own assessment.
Work with staff, clergy, and community groups to increase sensitivity to the spiritual concerns of people experiencing terminal illness and loss.
Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings to assess potential spiritual needs and report on services as indicated.
Develop a spiritual plan of care based on an initial spiritual care assessment.
Work with the Arkansas Hospice bereavement program as needed; provide follow-up services when requested and perform liturgical assignments at memorial services.
Document patient and family visits accurately and promptly.
Collaborate with clergy or appropriate representatives of patients and families as needed.
Conduct or arrange patient funerals or memorial services as appropriate.
Develop and maintain a resource group of clergy who may provide delegated aspects of spiritual care.
Participate in orientation for new hospice staff and assist with ongoing education and training for clinical staff.
Participate in the Performance Improvement program.
Provide educational programs for community clergy, religious representatives, and lay representatives when requested.
Maintain confidentiality.
Model excellent customer service, seek opportunities to assist patients, families, and coworkers, and demonstrate teamwork and cooperation.
Accept direction, follow instructions, seek additional information as needed, and work with minimal supervision.
Follow organizational and departmental policies and procedures.
Meet attendance and punctuality standards and notify the supervisor promptly when absent or late.
Attend required meetings and in-services and pursue professional development as appropriate.
Perform other duties as assigned.