Direct Support Professional - CNAs & LPNs

Job Description

Job Description

Department: Residential Services

Reports To: Manager/CEO - Maurice Hawkins

FLSA Status: Exempt

Job Summary: The Direct Support Professional - One (DSP-1 - CNAs & LPNs) provides direct care, supervision, and skill-building support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) living in a group home setting under the Virginia Medicaid Waiver. The DSP-1 helps individuals achieve personal goals, maintain health and safety, and live as independently as possible in accordance with person-centered plans and DBHDS standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide individualized support and supervision in accordance with each individual’s Individual Service Plan (ISP).
• Assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, toileting, eating, and mobility.
• Implement and document ISP goals, progress notes, behavioral data, and daily logs in a timely and accurate manner.
• Support individuals in meal preparation, household cleaning, laundry, and other homemaking tasks.
• Administer medications as trained and approved, and complete Medication Administration Records (MARs) per policy.
• Support individuals in attending medical appointments, community outings, employment, and recreational activities.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and supportive environment in compliance with DBHDS licensing regulations and health/safety standards.
• Promote skill development and independence in areas such as self-care, money management, social interaction, and communication.
• Manage challenging behaviors using positive behavior supports and agency-approved interventions (e.g., TOVA techniques).
• Report incidents, injuries, illnesses, or unusual occurrences immediately to the supervisor (Maurice Hawkins).
• Advocate for individuals' rights, preferences, and needs while promoting dignity and respect at all times.
• Follow emergency procedures and remain calm and responsive during crisis situations.
• Attend mandatory training and maintain certification in CPR/First Aid, Medication Administration, and behavior intervention strategies.
• Communicate effectively with team members, families, medical professionals, and external agencies.
• Answer to monthly safety checks.

Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Valid Virginia driver’s license with acceptable driving record (if transporting individuals).
• Ability to pass a Criminal Background Check, Drug Screening, and DSS Central Registry Check.
• Must be able to complete and maintain certifications as required by Virginia Medicaid Waiver and DBHDS:
  • CPR/First Aid
  • Medication Administration 
  • TOVA or other approved behavioral intervention training
  • Person-Centered Thinking
  • Human Rights / HIPAA
  • CNA or LPN Certifications/Licenses

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) & Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Responsibilities: 

• Medication Administration Records (MAR Books)
  • Maintain accurate, organized, and up-to-date MAR books for each client.
  • Ensure all medication records are properly completed in accordance with assigned responsibilities and applicable regulations.
• Documentation Audits
  • Conduct routine audits of client records to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with established policies and procedures.
  • Identify and promptly report any missing, incomplete, or incorrect documentation.
• Weekly MAR Reports
  • Complete and submit weekly reports for each client's MAR book.
  • Review records for accuracy and report any discrepancies to the appropriate supervisor.
• Physician's Orders
  • Ensure all physician's orders are current, properly documented, and updated as needed.
  • Communicate changes in physician's orders to the appropriate staff members to ensure continuity of care.
• Medical Appointments & Scheduling
  • Ensure all scheduled doctor's appointments are accurately entered and updated on each client's calendar.
  • Document appointment dates, times, and relevant follow-up instructions.
• Feeding & Nutritional Assistance
  • Provide assistance with feeding clients as needed.
  • Ensure clients receive appropriate meals and nutritional support according to their individualized care plans.
  • Monitor and report any concerns regarding food intake or feeding difficulties.
• Personal Care & Hygiene
  • Assist clients with changing, toileting, incontinence care, and personal hygiene as needed.
  • Maintain each client's cleanliness, comfort, and dignity.
  • Accurately document the date and time personal care services are provided, in accordance with documentation requirements.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform physical interventions if needed.
• Must be able to stand, walk, bend, push, pull, and kneel during shift.
• Ability to stay alert and awake during overnight or extended shifts.

Skills & Competencies:

• Compassionate, patient, and respectful demeanor.
• Ability to follow instructions and work independently or as part of a team.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Time management and problem-solving skills.
• Understanding of confidentiality, boundaries, and professional ethics.