Direct Support Professionals (DSP) - Residential (Weekend)

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Reasonable Accommodations Statement

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Regular attendance and punctuality.
• Provides supervision to persons supported according to their individual service plan (ISP) and individual needs and protocols always being mindful of what is important to and important for the individual.
• Provides training and assistance to persons supported with activities of daily living and communication according to their ISP and individual needs in a manner which encourages choice and maximum independence.

This includes, but is not limited to grooming, hygiene, meal preparation, eating, changing clothes and or adult protective clothing, toileting, showering and utilizing assistive technology and communication devices.

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. Assists individuals with the supervised self-administration of medication as indicated on prescription and MAR.

Observes for and reports adverse reactions and side effects. Administers medication as required when training from approved medical personnel has been conducted and documented.

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 thickening agent must be added to all liquids.)

• Follows de-escalation philosophy and techniques. Intervenes in problem situations according to de-escalation philosophy and techniques.
• Treats individuals supported with respect, dignity, courtesy and sensitivity at all times.
• Provides transportation for persons supported to appointments, meetings, community outings, employment, and in emergencies such as an evacuation of a Hi-Hope facility or Group Home in accordance with DBHDD and DHS transportation guidelines.
• Actively plans for and / or participates in meetings including, but not limited to ISP, SIS, IDT and Resident Council as assigned for individuals supported.

Provides input (feedback on progress toward previous goals and recommendation for future goals) on individual person-centered goals for persons supported.

Utilizing person centered tools such as "working / not working", "important for", "communication chart", and "relationship map" assists persons supported in identifying and developing goals.

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

Conducts outs and activities to help individuals learn or enhance skills, achieve ISP goals, increase community presence and build meaningful relationships with those in the community.

• Records individual information and data on appropriate forms or electronically according to departmental policy.
• Records all entries in a clear, concise, legible and timely manner.
• Completes all assigned paperwork and documentation in accordance with the organization's policies and procedures and utilizing approved language.
• Maintains basic care for all equipment and supplies.
• Actively participates in staff development trainings, staff meetings, seminars, conferences, web-based training and other meetings as scheduled by management.

Reads and reviews written material as provided or assigned by the supervisor or the organization. Applies concepts that are learned to your daily work activities.

• Observes confidentiality practices according to Hi-Hope policy and federal and state guidelines.
• Provides for and maintains a safe, secure, clean, healthy and attractive environment for persons served, visitors and staff.

Identifies and reports safety concerns.

• Reports medication errors and any adverse side effects in a timely manner to nursing and to supervisor.
• Follows established protocols for emergencies such as fire, severe weather, natural disasters, missing person, bomb threats, evacuation, utility failures, medical emergencies, vehicle accidents and safety during violent or other threatening situations.
• Coordinates with co-workers to maintain staff to individual ratio per department policy and individual needs and notifies supervisor if ratio cannot be maintained.
• Follows established protocol for infection control and universal precautions and related directives from nursing staff.
• 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.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

Education :

High School Graduate or General Education Diploma (GED)

Experience :

At least one year related experience working in a residential setting providing assistance to individuals with intellectual / developmental disabilities preferred.

Computer Skills :

Must be familiar and competent in using a personal computer, Internet, various software programs, and assistive technology equipment to effectively interact with residents.

Certificates & Licenses :

CPR / AED and First Aid, valid Georgia Driver's license; transportation and vehicle emergency evacuation certification; and QBS certification for de-escalation techniques within 90 days of employment.

Other Requirements :

Must be 21 years old, must have an acceptable pre-employment physical and capable of lifting a minimum of 50 pounds' walking, bending, squatting, reaching up, out and over;

negative drug screening result and a tuberculosis (TB) screening or chest x-ray; and have an acceptable motor vehicle record (MVR) with no more than two moving violations in a three year period within the last five years of a seven year motor vehicle record report, vehicle liability insurance and an acceptable criminal record check.

Must have reliable transportation. Must successfully receive an Adequate Functional Health Literacy score on the Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (TOFHLA).