Nutrition Care Assistant at WVU Medicine: Serving Patients with Compassion

Role Overview

As a Nutrition Care Assistant (NCA) at WVU Medicine's Ruby Memorial Hospital, you'll play a vital role in providing direct patient meal service and ensuring their nutritional needs are met. This position involves a blend of customer service, dietary knowledge, and adherence to strict safety and sanitation standards. You'll be interacting directly with patients, taking their meal orders, delivering trays, and addressing any concerns they may have.

The NCA is responsible for understanding and following dietary restrictions, including allergies and fluid limitations. They must be proficient in using systems like EPIC and VST to access patient information and process meal requests accurately. Maintaining the cleanliness of nutrition centers and adhering to HAACP guidelines are also crucial aspects of the role.

A Day in the Life of a Nutrition Care Assistant

Your day as a Nutrition Care Assistant will be varied and fast-paced. Here's a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Morning: Begin by checking the patient roster and preparing for meal service. You'll answer phone calls from patients, assisting them with menu selections and addressing any questions they have. You'll also process nourishment orders and print them for the kitchen staff.
• Mid-day: You'll visit patients who need assistance with menu selection, carefully noting any dietary restrictions. You'll then deliver meal trays, adhering to strict hand sanitization and infection control protocols. Throughout delivery, you'll utilize AIDET (Acknowledge, Introduce, Duration, Explanation, Thank You) to ensure a positive patient experience.
• Afternoon: After meal service, you'll retrieve trays and document any information required for calorie counts. You will monitor new patients to inform them of room service procedures. You'll also communicate with the tray line and production personnel regarding patient special requests.
• Throughout the Day: You'll maintain the cleanliness of the nutrition center and ensure an adequate supply of condiments. You'll also collaborate with nurses and dietitians to ensure optimal patient care.

Why Morgantown, West Virginia?

Morgantown, West Virginia, is a vibrant university town offering a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Home to West Virginia University, Morgantown boasts a lively arts and culture scene, diverse dining options, and a wide range of recreational activities. The city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports abound. Morgantown has a relatively low cost of living compared to other cities, making it an attractive place to live and work. The sense of community is strong, fostering a welcoming environment for newcomers.

Career Path

The Nutrition Care Assistant position can serve as a stepping stone to various career paths within WVU Medicine. With experience and further education, you can advance to roles such as:

• Certified Dietary Manager: Oversee food service operations and ensure compliance with dietary guidelines.
• Dietetic Technician, Registered: Work under the supervision of a registered dietitian to provide medical nutrition therapy.
• Registered Dietitian: Provide comprehensive nutritional assessments and develop individualized meal plans for patients.
• Food Service Supervisor: Manage food service staff and ensure efficient and safe operations.

Salary and Benefits

The estimated salary range for a Nutrition Care Assistant in Morgantown, West Virginia is between $27,000 and $35,000 per year. WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Retirement Plan: With employer matching contributions.
• Life Insurance and Disability Coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Wellness Programs.
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• Employee Discounts.

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to providing exceptional patient care in a supportive and collaborative environment. We value teamwork, respect, and continuous learning. Our employees are our greatest asset, and we strive to create a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. We embrace diversity and inclusion, and we are committed to providing equal opportunities for all.

How to Apply

To apply for the Nutrition Care Assistant position at WVU Medicine, please click the "Apply" button at the top of this page and complete the online application. Be sure to highlight your relevant skills and experience, and demonstrate your commitment to patient care and customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the essential qualifications for this role?

   A valid Food Service Worker Permit from the Monongalia County Health Department is required. High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

2. What are the key responsibilities of a Nutrition Care Assistant?

   Taking meal orders, delivering trays, following dietary restrictions, and maintaining cleanliness of nutrition centers.

3. What is the typical work schedule for this position?

   Schedules may vary and may include weekends and holidays based on the needs of the department.

4. What kind of training is provided?

   You will receive comprehensive training on patient care, dietary guidelines, infection control, and the use of EPIC and VST systems.

5. What opportunities are there for career advancement?

   This position can lead to roles such as Certified Dietary Manager, Dietetic Technician, or Registered Dietitian with further education and experience.

6. What is the work environment like?

   WVU Medicine fosters a supportive and collaborative work environment.

7. Are there any physical requirements for this job?

   The role requires standing, walking, and lifting trays.

8. What is the dress code?

   The dress code typically involves scrubs and adherence to hygiene standards.

9. Whom can I contact for more information?

   Please contact the WVU Medicine HR department for any further questions.

10. Is previous experience required for this role?

    While not always required, previous experience in food service or customer service is a plus.