Clinical Dietitian

Description

Join St. Francis–Emory Healthcare, a 376-bed community-connected hospital in Columbus, GA, that blends cutting-edge care with hometown purpose. As part of the ScionHealth network, St. Francis has been recognized and awarded multiple high-performing honors by U.S. News & World Report, and received multiple disease-specific certifications from the Joint Commission, and was a rated Top Large Hospital in Georgia. St. Francis also delivers advanced heart, orthopedic, and women’s care services. At St. Francis, you will experience a culture of excellence where your work directly shapes the health of our community.

Job Summary

The Clinical Dietitian is responsible for the nutritional assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of care for patients in a hospital setting. Works closely with physicians, nursing, and food service staff to ensure that patients receive appropriate nutrition therapy. Provides education and guidance on therapeutic diets, manages special dietary needs, and participates in performance improvement initiatives.

Essential Functions

• Conduct comprehensive nutrition assessments and reassessments on all patients.
• Develop, implement, and monitor individualized nutrition care plans.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams in patient care planning.
• Document patient care activities in medical records per facility policy.
• Provide patient and family education on nutrition and dietary management.
• Conduct meal rounds and ensure patients' nutritional needs are met.
• Review and approve therapeutic menus and substitutions for accuracy.
• Ensure adherence to food safety and infection control standards.
• Participate in quality assurance and performance improvement activities.
• Assist with staff education and training related to therapeutic diets.
• Participate in survey readiness and assist with inspections as needed.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities/Expectations

• Knowledge of clinical nutrition guidelines and medical nutrition therapy.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to analyze clinical data and apply to patient care.
• Familiarity with EMR systems and basic office software.
• Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize responsibilities.
• Capacity to work collaboratively across departments and disciplines.
• Demonstrates cultural sensitivity and advocates for patient preferences.
• Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, and use hands.
• Occasional lifting and movement of items up to 50 pounds.
• Visual and auditory acuity needed to assess patients and interact with the care team.
• Work performed in hospital environment with exposure to food preparation areas.
• Occasional exposure to body fluids, hazardous chemicals, or airborne particles.
• Must adhere to infection control and safety procedures at all times.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics, Nutrition, or a related field from an accredited institution.

Licenses/Certifications

• Registered Dietitian (RD) with the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
• State licensure or certification as required by law.
• Must maintain BLS certification as required by facility.

Experience

• Two years of clinical experience in an acute care hospital preferred.
• Experience with nutrition support and disease-specific nutrition interventions is highly desirable.
• Provisional Dietitians may practice under supervision if permitted by state regulations.