Feeding Assistant
About The Position
Paid feeding assistants provide dining assistance for residents without complicated feeding problems. Complicated feeding problems include difficulty swallowing, recurrent lung aspirations, and tube or parenteral IV feedings. Residents are assessed by an interdisciplinary team for appropriateness for the feeding assistant program. Paid feeding assistants must complete a state-approved training course before feeding residents. This training covers feeding techniques, assistance with feeding and hydration, communication skills, appropriate responses to resident behavior, safety and emergency procedures (including the Heimlich maneuver), infection control, resident rights, and recognizing and reporting changes in residents. The program is overseen by a registered nurse (RN) in conjunction with the facility's registered dietitian (RD). Paid feeding assistants work under the supervision of an RN or licensed practical nurse (LPN), who monitors their use of appropriate feeding techniques, assistance according to resident needs, respect for resident rights and dignity, and adherence to infection control and safe food handling practices. The use of paid feeding assistants is not intended to substitute for nursing staff. In emergencies, feeding assistants should call the nurse supervisor. They report or record resident intake and report changes in eating patterns to the RN and/or RD. The administrative office maintains records of training completion and individuals used as feeding assistants. Any staff who has successfully completed the training program may feed residents. Inquiries should be directed to the Director of Nursing Services or the Administrator.
Requirements
- Successfully complete a state-approved training course taught by qualified professionals.
- The training course consists of eight (8) hours covering feeding techniques, assistance with feeding and hydration, communication and interpersonal skills, appropriate responses to resident behavior, safety and emergency procedures (including the Heimlich maneuver), infection control, resident rights, and recognizing and reporting changes in residents.
- Work under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN).
- Any staff who has successfully completed the Feeding Assistant Training Program may feed residents.
Responsibilities
- Provide dining assistance to residents without complicated feeding problems.
- Report or record resident intake after each meal.
- Report changes in eating patterns to the RN and/or RD.
- Call the nurse supervisor in case of an emergency.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
