Definition
Performs the work assignments of a clinical dietitian in a State facility, developing general and therapeutic diets, completing nutritional assessments, and implementing nutritional plans of care using professionally accepted methods; performs related work as required.
The work examples and competencies listed below are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be the primary basis for position classification decisions.
Work Examples
Assists in planning menus compliant with applicable regulations. Modifies menus for therapeutic diets.
Oversees the writing of all individual therapeutic diets for clients, and assures that correct procedures in implementing diets are followed.
Participates in rounds with medical teams.
Maintains or oversees the maintenance of diet prescriptions, nourishment orders, and dietary client files.
Completes nutritional assessments, utilizing laboratory data, observation, medical and diet history, and client preferences. Develops and implements nutrition plan of care.
Counsels and educates clients on healthy eating and therapeutic diet strategies to accomplish nutrition therapy.
Instructs staff in the preparation and serving of special dietary foods and menus using individual instruction or in-service training.
Competencies Required
Knowledge of dietetics, including nutrition, food cost, availability and adaptability of food for modified diets.
Knowledge of medical terminology.
Knowledge of the current standards, literature, trends, and developments in the field of dietetics.
Ability to modify menus for medically ordered diets.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with the clients, guardians and staff of all levels.
Ability to develop nutritional approaches to meet the unique needs of the population served.
Ability to maintain appropriate dietary records.
Displays high standards of ethical conduct. Exhibits honesty and integrity. Refrains from theft-related, dishonest or unethical behavior.
Works and communicates with internal and external clients and customers to meet their needs in a polite, courteous, and cooperative manner. Committed to quality service.
Displays a high level of initiative, effort and commitment towards completing assignments efficiently.
Works with minimal supervision. Demonstrates responsible behavior and attention to detail.
Responds appropriately to supervision. Follows policy and cooperates with supervisors.
Aligns behavior with the needs, priorities and goals of the organization.
Encourages and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust, and group identity. Fosters commitment and team spirit.
Expresses information to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information. Listens to others and responds appropriately.
Education, Experience, and Special Requirements
License to practice as a Dietitian in the State of Iowa, as issued by the Iowa Board of Dietetic Examiners.
Effective Date: 03/07 DF