JOB SUMMARY 

To provide homemaker services to the terminally ill Hospice patient and family as needed, under the direction of the RN. To work as a member of the Hospice team in providing Hospice care within the guidelines of the IDG care plan. 

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES 

Under the direction and ongoing supervision of the registered nurse, provides essential homemaker assistance to the patient and family: 

• Performing household services that are essential to the patient’s well­being at home. 

• Preparing meals including special diet. 

• Assists with shopping if the patient has no other resource available. 

• Provides emotional support and compassionate care to the patient and family unit: 

• Demonstrates listening skills. 

• Offers encouragement when appropriate. 

• Practices patience in voice and manner. 

• Maintains required competency and skills. 

• Reports any changes in the patient’s condition or family situation immediately by calling the Hospice office and notifying the RN. 

• Practices Standard Precautions according to OSHA regulations and policy. 

• Adheres to all policies and procedural guidelines. 

• Maintains current knowledge and practice of infectious disease protocols. 

The above statements are only meant to be a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by the employee of this job.  The employee may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those stated in this description. 

JOB REQUIREMENTS (Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills & Abilities) 

• High School Diploma or GED 

• Minimum 2 years of experience as a nursing assistant, preferred. 

• Active patient contact within past three years, preferred. 

• Completed Hospice orientation. 

• Ability to work independently, make accurate, and at times, quick judgments.  

• Ability to respond appropriately to crisis outside of a hospital setting.  

• Acceptance of and adaptability to different social, racial, cultural and religious modes. 

• The ability to drive and/or have access to transportation for agency related travel (e.g. community partners, patients, etc.) is an essential function of the job.  Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license, maintain automobile insurance coverage and have access to an automobile.