Caregiver

Caregiver Position Responsibilities (Pennsylvania Office)

• Follow the plan of care to help the consumer maintain good personal hygiene and a healthful, safe environment; perform ONLY those functions specified for each individual consumer.
• Receive written instructions from the supervisor.
• Demonstrate knowledge of agency policies and procedures.
• Complete orientation and training in all aspects of care to be provided to consumers.
• Demonstrate competency in all areas of training for a direct care worker.

Direct Care Workers may assist consumers with the following activities

Self-administration of medications (for consumers competent to direct their care) Housekeeping Personal care, including grooming and dressing Eating and meal preparation Oral hygiene and denture care Toileting and toilet hygiene Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (iADL) assistance Administering emergency first aid Providing or arranging for social interaction Providing transportation Document observations and services in the individual consumer record. Report any change in the consumer's mental or physical condition or home situation to the immediate supervisor or Agency Manager.

Job Conditions Must be able to drive and access consumers’ homes, which may not be routinely wheelchair accessible. Hearing, eyesight, and physical dexterity must be sufficient to perform a physical assessment of the consumer's condition and to provide care/services. Occasionally required to bend, stoop, reach, and move consumer weight up to 250 pounds; lift and/or carry up to 30 pounds. Must be able to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing, in English.

Equipment Operation Use of blood pressure cuff, thermometer, stethoscope, and hand washing materials.

Company Information Has access to all consumer medical records, which may be discussed with the Registered Nurse.

Qualifications

Completion of at least the ninth grade (high school diploma or equivalent preferred). Completed one of the following: Obtained a valid nurse’s license in PA; or Demonstrated competency by passing a competency exam developed by the home care agency which meets PA state regulation; or Completed one of the following: A training program developed by a home care agency, home care registry, or other entity which meets the requirements of PA regulation for training A home health aide training program meeting the requirements of 42 CFR 484.36 (relating to the conditions of participation; home health aide services) The nurse aide certification and training program sponsored by the PA Department of Education (www.pde.state.pa.us) A training program meeting the training standards imposed on the agency or registry by virtue of participation as a provider in a Medicaid Waiver or other publicly funded program Another program identified by the Department by subsequent publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin or on the Department's website Must be free from health problems that may be injurious to consumer, self, or co-workers and must present appropriate evidence per agency policy. Must comprehend the basics of personal care, housekeeping, and meal preparation and successfully complete the competencies. Must understand and respect consumer rights, including ethics and confidentiality of care. Must have a criminal background check and other checks as required by PA regulation. Must have current CPR certification and First Aid.