DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

Description

POSITION SUMMARY : Provides services to enable participants to accomplish tasks that the participant normally would do for themselves if the participant did not have a disability. In some cases can provides temporary relief for those persons normally providing the care, i.e., family, guardians, family home providers, for a participant unable to care for themselves.


QUALIFICATIONS: Shall be at least eighteen (18) years of age or older and have a high school diploma or GED. Some areas may require valid Class C State of Kentucky driver's license and have current mandatory insurance.

SKILL SETS: Adequate communication skills, process verbal and written instructions, ability to use a computer efficiently, dependable, interact effectively with the public and staff, adaptability-able to deal with frequent change, delays or unexpected events, strong sense of commitment.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIORMENTAL DEMANDS : Visual acuity necessary for appraising the appearance of the participant and the environment. Frequent talking and hearing when communicating with participants, families, guardians, and staff. May be some lifting when assisting with ambulation and personal hygiene training. May be some stooping, kneeling and bending involved when assisting. Possible exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Possible exposure to communicable diseases or hazardous materials. Home visits may cause exposure to risks of potential abuse, unsanitary conditions and environmental conditions. Strength, balance and dexterity required when performing safe physical management techniques with acting out individuals.

JOB SPECIFIC FUNCTIONS:

1. Will be responsible to assist participant accomplish tasks as if they did not have a disability such as meal preparation, grooming, hygiene, assisting in setting up medical care, and guiding the individual through the activities of daily living.
2. May provide relief of the primary caregiver on a short term basis.
3. Assist in integrating the participant in their community.
4. Work with the team to identify progress and barriers to treatment.
5. Meets regularly with supervisor to discuss concerns, problems, and progress.
6. Adhere to the Person Centered Plan of the participant served as developed by the

team (if applicable).

7. Participate in agency Continuing Quality Improvement (CQI) activities

8. Performs other duties as assigned.

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS:

Adheres to Communicare, Inc. policies and procedures.

Attends mandatory in-services and other training/educational programs as required.