Admissions Nurse

Hospice of Humboldt; Eureka (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Hospice of Humboldt seeks an Admissions Nurse to coordinate timely admissions and perform initial clinical assessments for patients entering hospice care. You will determine eligibility with the interdisciplinary team and initiate care plans in collaboration with clinicians and families.

The role requires a California RN license, strong communication, and EMR proficiency. You will work within an interdisciplinary team to ensure smooth transitions from hospital or home health to hospice services.

Qualifications

• Graduate of an accredited nursing program.
• Current California RN license.
• At least 1 year of nursing experience within last 3 years or BSN equivalent.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with EMR systems.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct initial clinical assessments of referred patients.
• Evaluate eligibility for hospice services with the IDG.
• Complete admissions documentation accurately and timely.
• Coordinate plan of care with interdisciplinary team.
• Communicate hospice services and expectations to patients and families.
• Maintain EMR documentation and compliance with regulations.
• Coordinate with referral sources and discharge planners for admissions.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Critical thinking

Team collaboration

Independent work

EMR proficiency

Driver's license

Education

Accredited nursing program

California RN license

Tools

EMR software

Job description

Position OverviewThe Admissions Nurse is responsible for coordinating the timely and appropriate admission of patients to hospice care. This role provides clinical assessment of patients, determines eligibility in collaboration with the interdisciplinary team, and facilitates a seamless transition into hospice care.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesPatient Assessment & AdmissionConduct initial clinical assessments for referred patientsEvaluate eligibility for hospice services in accordance with regulatory and organizational guidelinesComplete admissions documentation accurately and within required timeframesInitiate the plan of care in collaboration with the hospice interdisciplinary teamCare CoordinationCollaborate with physicians, intake team members, case managers, discharge planners, and referral sources to facilitate timely admissionsCommunicate effectively with patients and families regarding hospice philosophy, services, and expectationsEnsure continuity of care during the transition from hospital, home health, or other care settingsCommunicate concerns regarding appropriateness of admissions and ask for an Admissions Advisory Group (AAG) as necessaryParticipate in interdisciplinary team communication and handoff processesRegulatory Compliance & DocumentationEnsure all admission documentation meets Medicare Conditions of Participation and applicable state regulationsMaintain accurate, complete, and timely electronic medical recordsVerify required consents, certifications, and physician orders are obtainedPatient & Family EducationProvide clear, compassionate education on hospice services, goals of care, and available supportAddress questions and concerns with sensitivity and professionalismSupport informed decision-making aligned with patient goals and valuesTeam CollaborationParticipate in interdisciplinary team communication and handoff processesCoordinates medical, psychosocial, and spiritual services with IDG members per the patient’s acuity.Makes referrals to volunteer and grief support services as needed.Productivity & Flexibility ExpectationsComplete two (2) admissions visits per scheduled shift, based on patient volume, geographic considerations, and referral flowDemonstrate flexibility in daily assignments, recognizing that schedules and workload may fluctuate based on patient volume, referral activity, and hospice eligibility determinationsAccept and perform alternative assignments as directed by the Clinical Manager to support overall patient care operations. Alternative assignments may include, but are not limited to:Completing pre-admission chart reviewsSupporting other nursing functions, including inpatient unit or visit nursing coverageAssisting with other clinical support activities, as assignedMaintain a team-oriented approach, prioritizing patient needs and organizational operations over fixed daily expectationsRequired Education/Credentials:Graduate of an accredited nursing program.Current California Registered Nurse license.Required Experience:Minimum of one (1) year of experience as a professional nurse within the previous three (3) years or equivalent experience in a BSN program.Required Skills and Abilities:Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.Critical thinking and ability to function both independently and as a member of a team.Ability to build and maintain strong, supportive relationships with referral sources, co-workers, and supervisors.Compassionate and patient-centered approach to care.Proficiency in electronic medical records (EMR) systems.Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.Preferred QualificationsExperience in palliative care, hospice or home health.Experience working effectively with an interdisciplinary team.CHPN certification.Schedule RequirementsMust be able to work four (4) weekend shifts (4 days) per month/schedule period.