What are the responsibilities and job description for the Direct Care Worker position at Elite Home Health Care Inc?
Direct Care Worker (DCW) Job Description
Job summary:
A direct care worker provides assistance and care to the elderly, the physically disabled, or clients in rehabilitation programs. The job description of a direct care worker involves patience, empathy, strong interpersonal skills, and a detailed knowledge of best care practices.
Position Description
A direct care worker provides a number of services depending on the needs of the individual; these might include running errands, helping clients move around their homes, counseling individuals on independent living, and administering prescribed medication.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities of a Direct Care Worker
Helps the elderly or physically disabled move from room to room around their homes.
Assists individuals in dressing, bathing, and completing basic hygiene tasks.
Oversees any required rehabilitation exercises.
Ensures that individuals take their prescribed medications.
Prepares meals that adhere to special dietary considerations.
Assists with light cleaning and housework.
Teaches developmentally disabled adults how to adopt basic independent living skills.
Helps adults with developmental disorders learn to make a budget and complete basic household tasks.
Meets with family to discuss needs of patients.
Runs errands to the grocery store, laundromat, cleaners, drugstore, and other necessary locations.
Serves as a companion for the elderly who live alone.
Organizes activities for patients.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Demonstrates patience and compassion.
Possesses excellent interpersonal skills.
Works well with a variety of different individuals.
Possesses detailed knowledge of patients condition, symptoms, and medications.
Exhibits ability to think quickly and act calmly in an emergency.
Demonstrates strong organizational skills.
Communicates clearly and effectively.
Possesses strong listening skills.
Pays close attention to detail.
Possesses physical stamina required to help individuals move around.
Possesses emotional strength necessary to work with ailing patients.
Demonstrates awareness of proper first aid and emergency response procedures.
Maintains friendly and open demeanor at all times.
Education and Experience
A direct care worker holds a high school diploma, as well as an Associates Degree or certification as a Nurses Aide or Nursing Assistant. Direct care workers are also required to successfully complete a training program, commissioned by a private company or by their state of residence prior to beginning work. These programs can last anywhere from 1-3 months, and usually culminate in a final exam.
Work Environment
A direct care worker may spend the majority of his or her working hours in a patients private residence, helping with daily tasks. Others work in schools, hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or assisted living facilities. Shifts vary, depending on the needs of the individuals some direct care workers cover a typical 9-5 shift, while others cover night shifts, and most rotate between the two. The job of a direct care worker can be physically and emotionally taxing, especially when working with high-needs individuals.
Reports to Director of Operations, Human Resource Manager Hourly Employee
Pre-Hire Requirements:
Two step TB testing per CDC guidelines
Physical Exam within 3 months of hire date
Criminal Background Check
Adult/Child Abuse Background Check
Drug testing
Two Service letters and/or letters or reference.
