Field Hospice Aide

Overview
The hospice aide is a paraprofessional member of the interdisciplinary group who works under the supervision of a registered nurse and performs various services for a patient as necessary to meet the patient’s personal needs and to promote comfort. The hospice aide is responsible for observing the patient, reporting these observations and documenting observations and care performed.

The hospice aide will be assigned in a manner that promotes quality, continuity and safety of a patient’s care.

Duties

• Performing personal care needs after being given a patient’s assignment and attending to his/her requests promptly. If unable to perform a certain task, report to the Case Manager immediately.
• Meeting safety needs of the patient and using equipment safely and properly (foot stools, side rails, O₂, etc.).
• Giving personal care including baths, back rubs, oral hygiene, shampoos, and changing bed linen as often as assigned.
• Assisting in dressing and undressing patients as assigned.
• Planning and preparing nutritious meals, including shopping, as assigned.
• Assisting in feeding the patient as assigned.
• Taking and recording oral, rectal, and axillary temperatures, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure when ordered, with appropriate completed/demonstrated skills competency.
• Providing proper care and observation of the patient’s skin to prevent breakdown of tissue over bony prominences.
• Reporting on the patient’s condition and significant changes to the Case Manager, and being aware of the caregiver or other individuals living with the patient and any interpersonal issues.
• Assisting in ambulation and exercise as instructed by the hospice nurse or therapist.
• Offering and assisting with bedpans and urinals, and providing assistance with light laundry needs as assigned.
• Performing range of motion and other simple procedures as an extensional therapy service as ordered, with appropriate completed/demonstrated skills competency.
• Providing respite for the patient’s family/caregiver when on-site, as appropriate.
• Keeping the patient’s living area clean and orderly, as assigned.
• Adhering to the organization’s documentation and care procedures and standards of personal and professional conduct.
• Participating in quality assessment performance improvement teams and activities.
• Being respectful of the patient and family/caregiver environment and the patient’s personal needs.

Requirements

• Meets the training requirements of the State of California.
• Effective August 14, 1990, has successfully completed a state-established or other training program that meets the requirements of §484.36(a) and a competency evaluation program, or a state licensure program that meets the requirements of §484.36(b).
• Shows proof of registration on the Home Care Aide Registry through the Department of Social Services, Home Care Services Bureau (preferred).
• At least 18 years of age.
• Ability to read and follow written instructions and document care given.
• Understands hospice philosophy and is comfortable providing specialized care to the terminally ill.
• Provides satisfactory references from previous employers.
• Is self-directing with the ability to work with little direct supervision; secure with issues of death/dying; maintains a calm manner in a patient’s home.
• Has empathy for the needs of the ill, injured, frail, and impaired.
• Possesses and maintains current CPR certification.
• Demonstrates tact, patience, and good personal hygiene.
• Licensed driver with an automobile that is insured in accordance with organization requirements and in good working order.

Skills Required

1. Good oral and written communications

2. Good organizational skills

Working Conditions

1. Community home environment

2. Exposure to infectious diseases

3. In and out of automobile

Pay: From $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Experience:

• Certified Home Hospice Aide: 2 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• HA License (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Palm Springs, CA (Preferred)

Willingness to travel:

• 100% (Required)

Work Location: On the road

Salary : $25