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Patient Nutrition Assistant Jobs in Rochester, IL

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Patient Nutrition Assistant information

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$11

$21

$61

How much do patient nutrition assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient nutrition assistant in Rochester, IL is $21.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $21.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a patient nutrition assistant?

Patient Nutrition Assistants are healthcare support professionals who help ensure patients receive meals that meet their dietary needs and preferences while following medical or nutritional guidelines set by healthcare providers. They typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare facilities, collaborating with dietitians, nurses, and kitchen staff. Their responsibilities include taking meal orders, delivering food trays, addressing patient dietary concerns, and sometimes assisting with menu planning to accommodate special diets. Their role is essential for patient health, comfort, and recovery, as proper nutrition is a key part of medical care.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a patient nutrition assistant?

To thrive as a Patient Nutrition Assistant, you need knowledge of basic nutrition, food safety, and experience in food service, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with dietary management software, tray line systems, and compliance with food handling regulations is typical. Strong communication, attention to detail, and empathy help you accurately address patient dietary needs and collaborate with healthcare teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring patients receive safe, appropriate meals that support their health and recovery.

What are common challenges faced by patient nutrition assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Patient Nutrition Assistants often encounter challenges such as balancing dietary restrictions with patient preferences, managing high volumes of meal orders, and ensuring clear communication with both patients and clinical staff. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, be attentive to detail, and stay up to date on hospital dietary guidelines. Effective teamwork and proactive communication with dietitians and nursing staff can also help resolve issues quickly and ensure patients receive appropriate and enjoyable meals.

What is the difference between Patient Nutrition Assistant vs Diet Aide?

AspectPatient Nutrition AssistantDiet Aide
CertificationsTypically requires a nutrition-related certification or trainingMay require basic food service or dietary aide certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilitiesHospitals, nursing homes, food service settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with patient meal planning, monitoring intake, supporting diet ordersPreparing and serving meals, assisting with food service tasks

The Patient Nutrition Assistant primarily focuses on supporting patient-specific dietary needs and monitoring intake within healthcare settings, often requiring specialized nutrition knowledge. In contrast, the Diet Aide typically handles food preparation and service tasks in various food service environments. While both roles involve working in healthcare or food service settings, the Patient Nutrition Assistant has a more clinical focus on patient care related to nutrition.

What do you need to become a patient nutrition assistant?

To become a patient nutrition assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require certification in nutrition or food service. Relevant skills include communication, basic knowledge of nutrition, and the ability to follow dietary plans. Some positions may also require experience in healthcare or food preparation environments.

What job categories do people searching Patient Nutrition Assistant jobs in Rochester, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Patient Nutrition Assistant jobs in Rochester, IL are:

What cities near Rochester, IL are hiring for Patient Nutrition Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, IL with the most Patient Nutrition Assistant job openings:

Patient Nutrition Assistant jobs near you

Patient Care Technician, 6B Cardiac

Decatur Memorial Hospital

Springfield, IL • On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Patient Care Technician (PCT) on the 6B Cardiac Unit

Support cardiac patients through essential, hands-on care. As a Patient Care Technician (PCT) on the 6B Cardiac unit at Springfield Memorial Hospital, you'll work closely with nurses and care providers to support patients recovering from cardiac events, surgeries and conditions. Your role is vital in helping patients feel safe, comfortable and cared for throughout their hospital stay.

Qualifications

A reliable and compassionate caregiver who is detail-oriented, responsive and committed to delivering excellent care in a specialized cardiac setting.

Education, Licensures & Certifications:

  • One of the following is required:
    • Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)
    • Enrollment in nursing school with one (1) semester of clinicals completed
    • Two (2) years of relevant experience in a nursing assistant role
  • CPR certification required or obtained during onboarding

Experience:

  • Experience in cardiac care or acute care preferred
  • Strong observational skills and ability to respond quickly to changes in patient condition
Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide direct care aligned with patient safety and comfort standards
  • Assist with ambulation, nutrition, hygiene and toileting support
  • Document interventions, observations and patient responses accurately
  • Prepare patients for cardiac monitoring and procedures as directed
  • Maintain a clean and organized care environment in collaboration with the team

What You'll Do:

  • Assist patients with hygiene, mobility, feeding and toileting needs with care and dignity
  • Monitor and document vital signs, blood glucose levels, intake/output and patient observations
  • Support cardiac care protocols by preparing patients for tests, procedures and treatments
  • Respond promptly to patient call lights, ensuring comfort and safety
  • Collaborate with nurses and providers to maintain a clean, organized and efficient unit

At Memorial Health, we invest in your professional development, well-being and career growth with:

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Continuing education opportunities
  • Life insurance and voluntary benefits
  • Mental health services
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Adoption assistance
  • Local and national discounts

This position is based at Springfield Memorial Hospital in Springfield, IL, part of Memorial Health's network of care.

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