Clinical Dietician, Special Care Nursery

Prepares and implements nutritional care plans in the Special Care Nursery, for patients from birth to 18 months of age in accordance with depart­mental policy and standards of care.  Screens patients identified at high risk per hospital protocol. Evaluates and modifies the nutrition care plan on an ongoing basis.  Collaborates with medical providers, nursing staff, and other ancillary staff in SCN.  Responsibilities involve providing Infant Formula Educations, and in depth nutritional assessments/Follow-up care in SCN.

 *** This is position will split time between the Northside Atlanta and Cherokee locations. Atlanta - 3 days per week, Cherokee - 2 days per week ***

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Reviews medical records, gathers data and evaluates nutritional status of patients to formulate and implement effective nutritional care plans following department policy and standards.
2. Evaluates effectiveness of current plan, revises care plan as needed, and documents in the patient’s medical record ensuring continuity of care. This includes:
   1. Collection of pertinent medical, biochemical, anthropometric, social and nutritional data.
   2. Identification of current, past or potential nutritional problems.
   3. Calculation of individualized nutrient requirements.
   4. Recommendations for type, amount, and route of nutrition support.
   5. Documentation in the medical record.
   6. Infant Formula Education Demonstrations
3. Assesses the nutritional status of infants within the NICU and documents nutritional needs and goals appropriately in the medical record.
4. Works as a team member with nursing personnel, medical staff, families, and others in develop­ing nutrition‑related care plans and programs.
5. May participate in planning and implementing clinical learning experiences for Dietetic students and evaluate student performance.
6. Promotes and supports initiation of lactation.
7. Assists in developing and implementing Quality Improvement programs, evaluates policies and procedures and standards of care.
8. Maintains a current knowledge base in clinical nutrition and tracks CEU credits to maintain registration and licensure.
9. Practices proper safety technique in accordance with hospital and departmental policies and procedures. Immediately reports any mechanical or electrical equipment malfunctions, unsafe conditions, or employee/patient/visitor injury/accident to manager.
10. Develops knowledge and skills in areas of responsibilities and becomes a resource person to other staff members.
11. Participates in interdisciplinary rounds, and attends interdisciplinary patient care conferences.
12. Instructs families regarding special nutrition care plans and infant formula education demos.

REQUIRED

1. Bachelor’s degree in Foods and Nutrition related subject matter, and Dietetic Internship or equivalent training.
2. Registered Dietitian by the Commission on Dietetic Registration of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
3. Current licensure as a Dietitian in the State of Georgia.
4. Two (2) or more years’ experience in clinical dietetics with broad areas of expertise. PLUS greater than or equal to two (2) years in designated Neonatal Nutrition.
5. Demonstrated knowledge of adult/parent (and/or children/neonate as needed) education principles.
6. Good written and oral communication skills.

PREFERRED

1. Public Speaking experience preferred
2. Masters’ degree in nutrition subject is highly preferred.
3. Specialized training with neonatal population.
4. Certified Specialist as recognized by appropriate governing body. (governing body ex: A.N.D., CDR, A.S.P.E.N., etc.) (Certification ex: Pediatrics (CSP), Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC), etc.)