Personal Care Assistant (PCA)

Description

· Provides support to each individual in the area of personal hygiene and cleanliness. This includes, but is not limited to grooming, hygiene, meal preparation, eating, changing clothes and or adult protective clothing, toileting, and showering.

· Assists individuals in maintaining their personal belongings.

· Encourages maximum mobility independence.

· Assists as needed with ambulation and transfers using approved techniques.

· Follows approved menus, medical and medication directives, and related schedules.

· Monitors all food and drink intake for choking, dietary restrictions, and proper nutrition. Ensures food is prepared appropriately according to ISP and/or nursing instructions for individuals having dietary restrictions or needs (ex: an individual must have all foods pureed; or a thickening agent must be added to all liquids.)

· Provides support to individuals and other staff when appropriate according to de-escalation philosophy and techniques.

· Records individual information and data on appropriate forms or electronically according to departmental policy.

· Treats individuals supported with respect, dignity, courtesy, and sensitivity always.

· Transports Hi-Hope Service Center residents from a designated group home and/or a designated non-resident(s) to the Hi-Hope Service Center Day Service in the morning (am) Monday through Friday.

· Transports Hi-Hope Service Center residents from the Hi-Hope Service Center Day Service to a designated group home and/or a designated non-resident(s) in the afternoon (pm) Monday through Friday.

· Provides transportation for persons supported from residential locations to day activities and in emergencies such as the evacuation of a Hi-Hope facility or home by DBHDD and DHS transportation guidelines.

· Actively participates in, and assists with community-integrated outings, recreational, leisure, and "meaningful day" activities with individuals supported.

· Makes good use of and provides care for all equipment and supplies.

· Provides for and maintains a safe, secure, clean, healthy, and attractive environment for people served visitors, and staff. Identifies and reports safety concerns.

· Reports any significant behavioral changes or possible medication adverse side effects promptly to nursing and supervisor.

· Follows established protocols for emergencies such as fire, severe weather, natural disasters, missing persons, bomb threats, evacuation, utility failures, medical emergencies, vehicle accidents, and safety during violent or other threatening situations.

· Follows established protocol for infection control and universal precautions and related directives from nursing staff.

· Actively participates in staff development training, staff meetings, seminars, conferences, web-based training, and other meetings as scheduled by management. Reads and reviews written material as provided or assigned by your supervisor or the organization. Applies concepts that are learned in your daily activities.

· Follows all rules, guidelines, and policies in the HHSC employee handbook and any other pertinent agency or regulatory documents.

· Acts appropriately and professionally on behalf of HHSC when in the community with or without individuals served. Follows dress code as mandated by the department and the organization.

· Observes confidentiality practices according to Hi-Hope policy and federal and state guidelines.

Requirements

• High School Graduate or General Education Diploma (GED)
• Experience working in a skilled nursing facility, retirement, or other type of community supporting elderly or geriatric individuals or working in a setting with individuals with significant disabilities. (preferred) 
•  Proficient in Microsoft Office, with advanced computer skills in Excel and PowerPoint.
• Must be familiar and competent in using a personal computer, Internet, various software programs, and assistive technology equipment to effectively interact with residents.
• Valid Georgia Driver's license; Transportation and Vehicle Emergency Evacuation training and De-escalation Techniques certification within 90 days of employment.
• Must be able to travel in designated territory 30% - 50% of the time.