Weekend Hospice Admissions RN

Lighthouse Hospice Care LLC•Downers Grove, IL

131d•$43 - $47

About The Position

The Hospice Admissions Registered Nurse conducts comprehensive assessments, educates patients and families about hospice services, and helps ensure a smooth transition into hospice care. As the first point of contact for patients entering hospice, the RN provides clinical evaluation and compassionate support. The role performs admissions and provides nursing care to patients of all ages in their place of residence, coordinates care with the Interdisciplinary Group/Team, patients and families, and referring agencies, and assumes responsibility for coordination of care. This is a part-time weekend floating position covering the entire service area, scheduled from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The nurse works in patients’ homes and facilities, travels locally, and may have on-call responsibilities.

Requirements

Graduate of an accredited Diploma, Associate, or Baccalaureate School of Nursing.
Current state registered nurse (RN) license and/or licensure in accordance with Board of Nurse Examiners rules for the Nurse Licensure Compact.
Current driver’s license.
Valid and current CPR certification.
At least one year of RN experience in hospice, palliative care, or a related field setting.
Nursing skills consistent with generally accepted standards of practice.
Good interpersonal skills and specialized skills in palliation and end-of-life care.
Strong clinical assessment and critical-thinking skills.
Excellent communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
Compassionate, patient-focused approach to care.
Ability to read, write, and comprehend English.
Reliable transportation and valid auto liability insurance.
Ability to work a flexible schedule and travel locally.
Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and move patients.
Ability to work under stressful conditions, meet deadlines and patient needs, make quick decisions, acquire resources, and meet individualized patient and family psychosocial needs.
Hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.

Responsibilities

Conduct initial assessments and admissions for hospice-eligible patients in hospitals, nursing facilities, and private residences.
Assess patients using Nursing Assessment and LCD criteria to identify physical, psychosocial, and environmental needs.
Explain hospice services, goals, and philosophy to patients and families to support informed decision-making.
Obtain and review medical records to determine eligibility under Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance guidelines.
Collaborate with physicians, referral sources, and interdisciplinary team members to facilitate timely, appropriate admissions.
Develop an initial plan of care based on patient needs and coordinate follow-up services with the hospice team.
Conduct routine and as-needed visits, including on-call support when needed.
Educate patients, families, and caregivers about disease processes, symptom management, nutrition, self-care techniques, and end-of-life care.
Provide emotional support, guidance, and education to families and caregivers.
Assist with end-of-life planning and grief support.
Maintain accurate, timely documentation in the electronic medical record (EMR).
Follow hospice philosophy, infection control protocols, and regulatory guidelines, including Medicare, Medicaid, HIPAA, and accreditation requirements.
Monitor assigned cases for compliance with third-party payor requirements.
Participate in quality assessment and performance improvement (QAPI) initiatives.
Participate in hospice-sponsored training, in-service programs, and professional development.
Promote hospice philosophy, policies, and best practices for high-quality patient care.
Pursue professional growth and competency through continuing education.