Caregiver / Direct Support Professional

SUMMARY

The Direct Support Professional may be a full time or part time position and is considered non-exempt and paid hourly.

Responsibilities include providing direct support within a single program or unit, typically supporting 4 - 6 individuals in residential settings, or up to 10 individuals in periodic programs.

Key responsibilities include socialization, health maintenance, medication administration, skill or behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping, recreational activities, transportation, community integration, shopping, citizenship, and other activities of daily living.

The Direct Support Professional works at the program location and may accompany individuals into the community.

Essential Job Functions

1. Attend orientation and on-going training as directed; participate in monthly staff meetings.
2. Work scheduled hours; arrive for work on time; stay on shift until replacement arrives; notify supervisor in advance when unable to work as scheduled or as soon as possible after the designated start time; may fill in for other shifts where required without causing unapproved overtime, or in the event of emergency.
3. Work together with others, value others' contributions; be courteous; communicate openly; listen; and show respect to others.
4. Comply with all established safety policies, procedures, and practices and report all work-related injuries to his/her supervisor.

Services and Supports

1. Provide direct support or assistance in accordance with individual service or program plans; assist with socialization and behavioral development, personal care, housekeeping, recreational activities, transportation, community orientation, shopping, financial management, citizenship, and other activities of daily living.
2. Accurately document progress and activity; review records and logs to stay abreast of changes in service plans; maintain confidentiality; accurately and timely complete billing documentation as applicable.
3. Manage individuals' assets: assist with money management, as assigned, and assure safety of individuals' funds and property.
4. Maintain healthy and professional relationships with individuals, friends, families, guardians, and case managers; greet family members and other visitors; implement Network Customer Service Standards.
5. Report any instance of alleged abuse or neglect according to internal and external standards; report medical, behavioral, and other incidents in accordance with Network policy and external requirements.
6. Maintain confidentiality, respect the rights of persons being served, according to the applicable bill of rights; practice universal precautions; assist individuals in exercising their rights.

Health Care

1. Accompany individuals to medical appointments; relay orders and information to and from medical providers as required.
2. If assigned, accurately administer and document delivery of medications and treatments; promptly report administration errors; maintain appropriate security of controlled medications and other medications and supplies.
3. Monitor individuals' health; document health concerns; communicate with nurse or supervisor as appropriate; call 911 in the event of emergency; follow individual health care directives.
4. Correctly follow procedures in utilizing medical equipment; report malfunction or disrepair.
5. Prepare or support individuals to prepare food in accordance with planned menus and individual choice; know special diets and prepare individual meals accordingly; monitor mealtime and correctly implement any dining plans.

Maintenance

1. Transport individuals into the community; drive safely and according to local laws; assure proper use of safety equipment including seat belts, lifts, and wheelchair ties; report accidents to appropriate authorities immediately; report accidents and safety concerns immediately to supervisor or maintenance personnel.
2. Perform daily and seasonal housekeeping as directed; maintain neat, clean, and safe environment; report hazards or safety concerns.
3. Monitor environmental safety and may make minor repairs, change light bulbs, etc.; may perform yard maintenance including keeping walkways safe and snow removal; report equipment or facilities requiring repairs to supervisor or maintenance personnel as required.
4. Check water temperature as required when assisting with bathing; participate in safety drills and protect persons being served in the event of emergency.

Other

Perform other related duties and activities as required.

Employee may from time to time need to use a personal cell phone for business purposes and will be provided a stipend to cover the business costs of doing so.

Minimum Knowledge and Skills Required by the Job

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or abilities required to perform the job:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Six months of experience in human services preferred. Must be 18 years of age.

• Valid driver's license in good standing. Car registration and vehicle insurance if providing transportation for individuals receiving services.

• All state-required training and certification completed in mandated timeframes.

• Job requires performance of duties that involve potential for exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues. Tasks that do involve exposure are an expectation of employment.

• Travel required as needed.

• Heavy Work. Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.