Director, Social Worker in Lovelock, Nevada at Pershing General Hospital

FLSA Status Exempt

Effective Date 12/21/2015

Safety Sensitive Yes

Revision Date 12/13/2024

Definition: The Director, Social Worker/Nutrition is a professional who plays a vital role in the healthcare team by providing essential support to patients and residents, their families, and caregivers. They focus on addressing the psychosocial, emotional, and financial aspects of healthcare, aiming to enhance the overall well-being of patients and residents and ensure they receive the necessary resources and support for their medical conditions. Organizes and plans the activities of the department, establishes and updates policies and procedures in accordance with facility policies, standard practices of the profession and related local, state and federal laws. This position recommends the purchase and control of necessary equipment and supplies and maintains departmental quality assurance and improvement plans as well as production statistics and safety reports.

Essential Functions: (Performance of these functions is the reason the job exists. Assigned jobs/duties are not limited to the essential functions).

1. Conducts psychosocial assessments of patients and their families to identify emotional, social, and financial challenges related to the patients’/residents’ healthcare experience.
2. Collaborates with the interdisciplinary team to develop and implement comprehensive care plans that address the patients’/residents’ psychosocial needs and support their overall well-being.
3. Provides support to patients/residents and families to help them cope with the emotional and psychological impact of medical conditions.
4. Connects patients/residents with appropriate community resources, such as support groups, financial assistance programs, housing services, and home care, based on their specific needs.
5. Assists patients/residents in completing advance directives, healthcare proxies, and other legal documents related to medical decision-making.
6. Advocates for patients’/residents’ rights and ensures they are involved in making informed decisions about their care.
7. Offers crisis intervention services in emergencies, such as sudden medical changes or end-of-life situations.
8. Assess and recognize the need for trauma informed care and make appropriate recommendations to care staff.
9. Hires new employees, makes annual performance evaluations for employees. Supervise and coach employees to improve work performance and provide high quality service.
10. Plans, organizes and administers work in the Dietary Department by establishing services, policies and procedures in accordance with organizational policies and standard practices of the profession, and within budget allowances to ensure that continuous, accurate, timely and cost-effective services are provided
11. Performs initial, quarterly and annual nutrition assessments and MDS on residents and patients in a timely manner and cost-effective services are provided.
12. Ensures that all work is completed in a cost-effective manner and that the appropriate input is given regarding department budgets and operations to ensure the cost-effective utilization of the hospital’s financial resources. Evaluates, selects and/or recommends equipment and supplies for purchase, lease or rental and supplies for purchase within budget allowances and/or group purchasing contract agreements to ensure adequate resources are available in performing quality health care services. Develops department budget and major expenditures for approval by the Administrator.
13. Oversees the Activities Department and participates in activities with residents.

Qualifications for Employment:

Qualifications for employment include the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform a job, which are generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education, or training.

Knowledge of:

• Social work theories, ethics, and practices, including the person in-environment perspective and strengths-based approach.
• The structure and functioning of healthcare systems.
• Various medical conditions, treatments, and their psychosocial implications on patients/residents and their families.
• Mental health disorders and resources available to patients/residents experiencing psychological distress.
• Availability of community resources, support services, financial assistance programs, and social service agencies to connect patients/residents with appropriate resources.
• Relevant healthcare laws, regulations, and patient/resident rights, including advance directives, and healthcare decision-making.
• Provide culturally competent care to patients and residents from diverse backgrounds.
• Communicate effectively, verbally and in written form, to interact with patients/residents, families, healthcare professionals, and community organizations.
• Advocate for patients’/residents’ rights and ensure they receive appropriate healthcare services and community support.
• Offer relevant input for the social services aspect of the care planning process.
• Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments to identify patients’/residents’ emotional, social, and financial needs.
• Overcome complex psychosocial issues and overcome barriers to care.
• Show empathy and compassion towards patients/residents and their families, fostering a supportive and understanding environment.
• Collaborate as part of an interdisciplinary healthcare team.
• Maintain emotional stability and resilience when dealing with emotionally challenging situations.
• Adapt approaches and services to meet the cultural and social needs of diverse populations.

Required Certifications and Licenses:

Active and unencumbered Social Work licensure through the Nevada Board of Examiners for Social Work. Current active CPR certification

Experience and Training:

Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. A typical way to gain the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is:

• Completion of bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work
• Physical and Mental abilities