The Director of Nursing is responsible for the direction, provision, and quality of nursing services for the hospice program. This position is responsible for: the overall planning, supervision, and administration of nursing services including the hospice aides/ homemakers; the coordination and integration of nursing services with other hospice services to provide a continuum of care for the patient; the development of protocols for regular verbal communication, including case conferencing/coordinating care through the Hospice Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) and by other means between the nursing service and other disciplines based on the needs of each patient; the development of written job descriptions and performance criteria for nursing personnel, and assigning duties based upon education, training, competencies, and job descriptions; and ensuring that nursing services are provided to the patient as specified in the hospice plan of care relative to nursing care and services.

The Director of Nursing must be available at all times during the operating hours of the agency. The Director of Nursing reports to and receives consultation, direction and supervision from the Hospice Administrator. In the temporary absence or vacancy of the Administrator, the Director of Nursing is authorized per the Managing Member to assume the role of the Administrator and is responsible to perform the duties as outlined in the Administrator’s Job Description.

B. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Planning, Organizing & Implementation

1. Provides direction, supervision and consultation to the clinical staff.

2. Serves as a resource to all agency personnel regarding clinical activities.

3. Assists in the oversight of the nursing, hospice aide, social work, counseling and therapy services to patients in Hospice consistent with standards of practice, community need, agency policies and procedures, Medicare guidelines and State Hospice licensure laws.

4. Develops written goals, objectives and activities for the delivery of hospice services.

5. Assists Hospice Administrator in establishing the responsibilities and qualifications for clinical services positions.

6. Assists Hospice Administrator in developing clinical policies and procedures for the delivery of patient services.

7. Incorporates Quality Assessment and Performance Improvement (QAPI) principles into clinical service delivery.

8. Participates in program planning, identifying new program areas, establishing policies and procedures related to service delivery and evaluation of agency programs.

9. Provides clinical nursing care to patients when needed.

10. Works with clinical staff to assist as needed with difficult care issues and to alter patient plans of care.