Description

BASIC FUNCTION: Provides support services, training and delegated nursing for a group of adults with multiple disabilities (i.e., physical, developmental and/or mental) in basic daily living, recreational and work-related habilitation activities to maximize independence and community integration in accordance with their Individual Plan (IP) goals. Carries out IP programs and works cooperatively with OakLeaf Day Services and other staff members in providing comprehensive services to program participants to ensure that their needs are met efficiently and that they are served in a safe, clean and comfortable environment. Though assigned to work in the OakLeaf Day Services program as the primary job function, the Day Services Community Connector is cross-trained to perform the job duties and established routines of the Job Training Community Connector in the OakLeaf Job Training (production area) program. The Day Services Community Connector will work in the program and location where staff coverage is most needed at a given time.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Using relevant, individualized training techniques, provide training and services in basic daily living, recreational, and work-related activities to promote and maximize the independent functioning of participants.

2. Provide personal care for clients, such as toileting, changing of clothing, feeding, grooming, bathing, oral hygiene, menses care, bus loading/unloading, etc., as directed in the clients’

individual plans (IPs).

3. Provide delegated nursing care, including but not limited to tube feeding, catheter care, the administration of medications, and other routine medical procedures under the direction of the delegating nurse.

4. Perform housekeeping tasks as related to client needs and in accordance with OSHA regulations—i.e., universal precautions—including laundry, dishwashing, discarding of materials, cleaning/disinfecting contaminated surfaces, etc.

5. Provide or assist with physical development activities, under the direction of the manager or ancillary services providers (e.g. OT/PT/SLP, etc.)

6. Maintain medical well being of clients and staff by performing appropriate lifting, positioning and transferring techniques, emphasizing safety and comfort as priorities.

7. Administer emergency first aid as warranted by the situation; report all significant medical observations to the agency nurse promptly.

8. Work cooperatively with the Day Services Manager in providing input and assisting in the development and implementation of individual plans (IPs). Deliver programs specified on the IP as assigned; maintain accurate daily documentation and records related to IP and service goals

9. Use appropriate behavior support techniques as recommended by the interdisciplinary team. Document unusual incidents in a timely manner.

10. Ensure the quality and record the quantity of work performed daily by clients participating in work-related activities or work groups on the production floor. Provide hands-on assistance with job set-up and job completion.

11. Monitor inventory of personal care and leisure/recreational supplies; make suggestions for new or replacement materials and supplies in a timely fashion.

12. Attend and participate in departmental, staff and agency and IP meetings as required.

13. Develop and maintain positive working relations and interactions with all clients, staff and program stakeholders.

14. Perform other reasonable client-related duties or special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. High school diploma or GED required.

2. One year’s direct care experience in an OakLeaf Day Services activity room, sheltered workshop, or residential setting, with additional training, coursework and/or relevant experience serving adults with multiple and/or severe disabilities required.

3. Physical capacity to perform lifting (minimum of 50 lb.) and assume body positions related to routines of personal care of clients (e.g. pushing, pulling, bending, twisting, crouching, reaching, stooping, and kneeling) required.

4. Ability to complete state-approved medications administration course and competency to perform delegated nursing tasks as evaluated by the agency nurse required.

5. Verbal and writing skills necessary to effectively communicate and document client needs. Professional manner and willingness to work as part of a team.

6. Possess a valid Ohio driver’s license with no more than two (2) moving violations and have reliable daily transportation.