CHAPLAIN

I.          QUALIFICATIONS 

Degree from an accredited theological school is preferred. Ordained with at least 2 years of pastoral experience. Must be able to counsel to persons who come from diverse religious/spiritual backgrounds. He/she must be knowledgeable of the religious community within the hospice service are. He/she must be able to relate to a wide variety of patients/families. He/she must understand the hospice philosophy and be in agreement with it.

II.         RESPONSIBILITIES

The Chaplain works as a member of the hospice Interdisciplinary Team and under the direction of the Chaplain Services Coordinator to:

·        Contact patient/family or coordinate with another community clergy member in accordance with the hospice Plan of Care.

·        Perform the Initial Spiritual Assessment of assigned patients.

·        Function as a liaison between the IDT and the religious community.

·        Provide direct spiritual support to patient/family, hospice employees and volunteers.

·        Provide input and feedback regarding the patient/family spiritual needs.

·        Document appropriately all visits for the patient’s medical records.

·        Develop and update the Spiritual Plan of Care.

·        Participate with Self Managed Care Teams to provide support and education for patient/families based on the hospice philosophy of care.

·        Participate in IDT meetings and keep team members informed of changes in patient/family spiritual POC.

·        Assist with community awareness functions, as necessary and requested.

·        Participate in the Volunteer Training Program as requested.

·        Work with the Bereavement Coordinator for spiritual needs of the bereaved.

·        Work as a team member at all times and uphold the Hospice Code of Ethics.

·        Participate in CQI activities as requested.

·        Document all activities and mileage accurately on Daily Itinerary Form

·        Maintain current driver’s license, auto insurance and a dependable means of transportation

III.        JOB CONDITIONS

Job requires the ability to:

·        Access patients’ homes and all rooms therein

·        Drive a car

·        Communicate effectively with patient/families both verbally and written

IV.       ON CALL:  Chaplain will be on call according to schedule and need.

V.        ORIENTATION AND TRAINING

Lilycare of New Jersey will provide orientation and training, as necessary, to assist the Chaplain in performing the responsibilities listed above. Trainings may be in-house, or outside seminars.  Evidence of orientation and training will become part of the personnel file.

VI.       ACCOUNTABILITY:   Reports directly to the Director of Nursing.