DIETETIC TECHNICIAN

SUMMARY:

The Dietetic Technician is responsible for assisting in planning and implementing nutritional programs and services in facilities such as hospitals and schools. This position is governed by state and federal laws and institution policy.

TYPICAL FUNCTIONS:

Writes nutritional assessment of patient or student needs by gathering and interpreting medical and social records and submits to supervisor for approval.

Reviews and maintains files of diet orders and nourishment to inform food services of patient or student nutritional needs.

Evaluates and monitors patient or student eating skills in conjunction with professional staff to develop therapeutic feeding programs and provide adaptive feeding equipment.

Informs physician of patient or student dietary problems, including requesting reviews or renewals of diet orders.

Inspects food service areas to monitor food preparation process, sanitation of work area, and delivery of food.

May instruct direct-care personnel in topics related to nutrition, food services, and feeding practices.

Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:

Knowledge of food science principles and methods. Ability to update and maintain patient records and files. Ability to plan menus and assist other medical professionals with diet modification for patient therapeutic management. Ability to assess client nutritional needs.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

The formal education equivalent of an associate’s degree in dietetics or a related field

Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Arkansas Division of Higher Education.

OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.