Dietetic & Nutrition Spec II

Job Description:
Would you thrive in an environment where you learn and grow personally and professionally all while helping make a positive impact on people’s lives? Do you appreciate being around others like yourself who are dependable, trustworthy, hard workers who believe in the value of each other, teamwork, and inclusivity? HSCS is dedicated to building a diverse community atmosphere where employees feel valued, supported, and accepted while providing specialized care for Texans in need. If providing hope and healing through compassionate, innovative, and individualized care interest you, we welcome your application for the position below.

The Dietetic and Nutrition Specialist II (Clinical Dietitian II) performs complex (journey level) nutrition services work. Work involves providing training to staff and family members; assessing nutritional status of patients using laboratory and anthropometric data to monitor nutritional status; planning special therapeutic menus modified for one or more nutrients and textures; serving as a member of the patient’s recovery team and project teams; preparing reports; providing quality assessment monitoring of menu and nutrition services activities; and providing technical assistance. The Clinical Dietitian monitors and evaluates programs and services; investigates complaints and/r deficiencies; provides referrals/ consultations on nutrition, trains dietetic interns, as needed; assists with developing policies and procedures; prepares reports and surveys. Provides guidance to others, as needed. Complies with departmental and accreditation regulations including Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) and The Joint Commission (TJC). Works under general supervision of the Director of Nutrition Services, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.

This position may also be eligible to earn additional pay for work performed on maximum security locations. Essential Job Functions:
Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

Provides medical nutrition therapy for psychiatric patients in the state hospital. Evaluates their nutritional status, develops, implements, and evaluates nutritional care plans based on patient needs and expectations, as well as evidenced based professional knowledge/standards, and professional experience.

Develops educational programs, materials, and presentations, and provides nutrition education, dietary counseling services that address nutritional principals, modified diet plans, food selection to support achievement of the best nutritional care.

Prepares updates and/or reviews food and nutrition patient data for hospital leadership, as requested.

Develops individualized complex therapeutic menus, modified in nutrients and/or texture, as needed, to meet special medical/physical needs of patients, as well as address the food and drug reactions that can occur with medications.

Functions as a member of the recovery team and other clinically related teams in developing care plans for individuals at moderate to high nutritional risk and provides referrals/consultations on nutrition. Works toward team consensus in supporting patient goals.

Consults with the food service department to provide accurate and timely information on menu changes, special diets, and food textures. Approves menu changes for compliance with regulations and nutrient standards. Develops and conducts in-service training for staff on nutrition principles, therapeutic diets, and related subjects upon request. Conducts quality assessment meal observations as needed.

Participates in performance improvement audits and on-going monitoring related to nutrition services, meal services, complaints or identified deficiencies. Assists in developing departmental policies and procedures.

Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of food and nutrition, food systems management, and food science, including normal and therapeutic nutrition.

Knowledge of food service standards and procedures, and food science principles.

Knowledge of federal program evaluation requirements.

Knowledge of nutrition needs related to population (i.e., persons with developmental disabilities, mental health conditions and/or behavioral issues).

Knowledge of common drug/nutrient interactions which impact nutritional status.

Skills in professional oral and written communication.

Skills in applying medical nutritional therapy.

Skills in interviewing.

Skills in utilizing computer hardware/software.

Ability to counsel and train others in food and nutrition.

Ability to evaluate and communicate nutrition needs.

Ability to interact effectively with patients, families, and staff.

Ability to interpret regulations, policies, and procedures.

Ability to perform basic and complex math calculations.

Ability to develop and evaluate nutrition service plans and educational materials.

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