About the job
The Clinical Dietitian - NICU embodies the mission, vision, and values of Northwestern Medicine. This role adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, while complying with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines, and regulatory and accreditation standards.
The Clinical Dietitian evaluates nutrition parameters and selects the most appropriate therapies to restore or maintain optimal nutritional status. Utilizing clinical assessment skills, they prescribe, implement, or modify diet or nutrition-related orders in collaboration with patients' healthcare teams, following hospital privileging. The clinical dietitian partners with the healthcare team to deliver high-quality, cost-effective nutrition care through advanced clinical reasoning and evidence-based practices. This position qualifies for professional exemption under FLSA but requires an irregular schedule.
Key Responsibilities:
- Exhibit strong knowledge of nutrition and clinical skills in caring for patients with varying acuities and complexities.
- Demonstrate the ability to prescribe or recommend appropriate nutrition therapies.
- Utilize evidence-based knowledge and protocols tailored to specific patient populations and diagnoses.
- Act as a resource for nursing, medical staff, and students.
- Collaborate with the healthcare team to ensure comprehensive patient care.
- Develop educational resources for patients, families, and staff.
- Train staff and students on nutrition and aspects of patient care.
- Actively participate in Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) initiatives.
- Conduct clinical assessments that include medical diagnoses, lab values, diet history, medication, and other relevant information to determine nutritional status and develop care plans with appropriate nutrition interventions.
- Plan and prescribe nutrition therapy within the scope of expertise and privileges for optimal patient outcomes.
- Identify and initiate suitable nutritional interventions in collaboration with the healthcare team.
- Prescribe nutritional therapies in accordance with established privileges, which may include therapeutic diets, nutrition-related labs, nutritional supplements, enteral support, and parenteral support.
- Interpret and discuss data concerning pharmacotherapy.
- Select the appropriate feeding route and enteral/parenteral formulas.
- Educate and counsel patients and families about nutrition therapy related to disease prevention, wellness, and desired outcomes.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and modify treatment plans as necessary.