Dietitian II, Renal

Detailed Overview

Reporting clinically to the Dietitian Practice Leader and administratively to the Manager, Renal Program and/or Manager, Clinical Nutrition, works as a member of an interdisciplinary team to provide dietetic practice to clients maintained in the Renal Program to improve their nutritional status and who experience multiple nutritional problems as a result of chronic renal disease, treatment modality concomitant pathologies and medication. Responsibilities Screens and assesses the client's nutritional status through client chart review, client/family interviews and discussion with other health care providers; determines diet requirements of client with renal insufficiency or failure based on biochemical, metabolic and anthropometric parameters and subjective global assessment. Develops and implements an appropriate multiparameter renal diet; sets nutritional priorities for high risk clients with multiple medical problems; documents care plan in accordance with established standards. Monitors and evaluates client's adherence and response to the multiparameter diet; makes recommendations regarding nutrition interventions including vitamin, mineral supplements and/or nutritional supplements. Participates in medical rounds to review issues such as renal client's nutrition needs and relevant nutrition support protocols As a member of the interdisciplinary team, participates in the achievement of the client care goals through effective management of the client's nutritional needs. Counsels and educates the client/client's family with respect to the rationale and mechanics of a multiparameter diet by considering factors such as social, emotional, cultural, eating habits, coping capabilities, environmental and financial situation. Acts as a resource to the interdisciplinary team and other health care providers regarding renal nutrition related issues such as nutrition support, care management of complex patients, use of relevant equipment and interpreting results. As a member of the interdisciplinary team, provides input into the development, implementation, evaluation and revision of nutrition management guidelines, education material, workshops and tools for the renal client population. Participates in the review, development, evaluation and implementation of clinical pathways for the Renal Program. Maintains related reports and statistical data, in accordance with established standards and procedures. Participates in quality improvement activities by collecting and submitting workload measurement data and reporting on effectiveness and/or variances to client care outcomes; provides input into the development, implementation and evaluation of departmental and program goals, objectives, policies, standards and procedures. Participates in clinical research related to renal disease; collects and analyses data, evaluates information and documents findings, as required. Participates in education, in-service sessions and orientation sessions and student education for all program team members, other health care staff and students, as required; coordinates and supervises student activities to assist them to meet their goals in accordance with the established college or hospital curriculum; conducts and completes written student evaluations. Attends departmental and committee meetings. Performs other related duties as assigned. Qualifications Education and Experience Graduation from a recognized Bachelor of Science degree program in Nutrition and successful completion of an approved dietetic internship program. Two years' recent related clinical experience in general medicine/surgery in a large acute care facility, or equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Current registration with the College of Dietitians of BC and eligible for membership with the Dietitians of Canada. Skills and Abilities Strong background knowledge in nutritional sciences, food preparation and nutrient composition, pathophysiology of kidneys, and renal failure, in order to provide relevant renal therapy Demonstrated in-depth knowledge of the etiology of renal disease, renal therapy practice/techniques, medication/nutrient interactions and relevant metabolic changes in response to disease Demonstrated in-depth knowledge of current renal nutrient composition of food to individualize a multiparameter diet Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the psycho-social economic considerations of End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Demonstrated counselling skills to effect a change in eating behaviour, and ability to establish rapport with clients and family members in order to explore issues that are beyond the initial presented concerns Demonstrated ability to educate clients Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing Ability to deal effectively with others, including the ability to work in a team and client-focused environment Ability to plan, implement, organize, prioritize, and problem-solve Physical ability to perform the duties of the position Ability to operate related equipment including applicable software applications

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