Thriving Lives Care, Inc.

Job Description

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL

 AS DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL AT THRIVING LIVES CARE, YOU ARE EXPECTED TO PERFORM DUTIES THAT SUPPORT RESIDENTS WITH INTELLECTUAL/DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES IN THEIR HOME SETTING.  THRIVING LIVES CARE EXPECTS YOU TO COMPLETE THESE DUTIES TO THE BEST OF YOUR ABILITY.   YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE INDUVIDAULS IN THE HOME AND THEREFORE RESPONSIBLE FOR MAKING YOURSELF INFORMED OF THEIR INDIVIDUAL SUPPORT NEEDS.  THE FOLLOWING ARE AREAS IN WHICH DSP’s PROVIDE SUPPORT AT TLC:

         I.    HEALTH AND WELLNESS

a)    Support each person in following all dietary guidelines established by dietician and/or Physician.  Make sure that food is prepared according to menu and dietary instructions.
b)    Supervise, train, support, or perform (if necessary) hygiene as needed for each person in:
~Bathing, showering, shampooing
~Dental hygiene
~Menses Care
~Clipping fingernails and toenails
~Shaving
~Toileting
~Skin Care
c)    Know the individual’s medications and their possible side effects.  Follow all procedures as per MAR’s and address any issues in the ISP.
d)    Assure delegated medical procedures are followed through accurately and consistently.
e)    Become certified in First Aid and CPR, and keep certifications current.
f)     Attend Blood Borne Pathogens training and always use Universal Precautions.
g)    Follow all recommendations physical and occupational therapists on positioning and therapies (as applicable).
h)    Attend training regarding disabilities and diagnosis for each person and follow correct procedures related to the disability and diagnosis.
i)     Assure individuals receive adequate health care.  Follow all doctor’s orders and recommendations.  Follow individual program procedures for informing supervisor of health issues.
j) Assure individuals are ready for medical appointments and ATE/Employment/School programs have been informed.

        II.    SAFETY

a)    Attend OIS (Oregon Intervention System) training, and demonstrate competency.
b)    Complete training and follow mandatory abuse reporting requirements if abuse, neglect, exploitation, or maltreatment is witnessed.
c)    Provide timely, accurate, and complete documentation on incident reports whenever necessary. 
d)    Conduct required evacuation drills and document.
e)    If driving is required, maintain a current Oregon Drivers License and good driving record.  
f)     Support each resident in learning and practicing proper safety procedures.
g)    Provide adequate supervision for each person as determined in the ISP and team recommendation.
h)    Able to lift over 50 lbs. Transfer and position individuals as needed.  Use correct lifting protocols at all times. 
i)     Report any problems with the vehicle (i.e. low tires, brake problems, noises, etc) to supervisor.
j)     Complete transportation information when using vehicle.
k)    Keep home clean, neat, and in good repair.  Keep all exits clear.
l)     Report any unsafe conditions to Supervisor immediately for repair or resolution.

      III.    RIGHTS

a)    Support each person in making personal choices.
b)    If an individual has a grievance, support him/her in contacting the appropriate personnel.
c)    Ensure that all human rights are protected.
d)    Treat the individuals with dignity and respect at all times.
e)    Give training to each person relative to the responsibilities that are connected to exercising their rights.
f)     Assist individuals in learning about their rights relative to citizenship and provide opportunities to exercise those rights.
g)    Assist individuals in advocating for their rights.
h)    Always use the least intrusive methods when interacting, training, or intervening.
i)     Help individuals keep personal possessions safe and accessible.  Turn in all receipts and maintain an accurate record of expenditures.
j)     Allow time, space and opportunity for privacy.
k)    Assure that each person has physical privacy while dressing, changing, bathing, and during medical treatments.
l)     Maintain confidentiality with all information regarding each individual.  Do not openly discuss a person’s problems or private issues in the presence of other individuals residing in the home or persons outside of the home. 

      IV.    VALUES AND PERSONAL REGARD

a)    Get to know each person and value their individuality and support each person in increasing their independence.
b)    Follow program as outlined on each person’s ISP and complete all assigned duties relative to training, documentation, etc.
c)    Attend all training and re-certifications required.
d)    Support each person in accessing their environment.  Support individuals in utilizing all applicable assistant devices and adaptive equipment as needed.
e)    Keep all adaptive equipment clean and report any repair needed to Operator immediately.
f)     Model appropriate behavior and dress.
g)    Be cheerful and positive in all interactions with residents.
h)    Support each person in developing / improving communication skills.
i)     Be an active listener and remain calm.
j)     Support each person to participate in social activities.
k)    Support each person in their associations with family and friends.
l)     Help teach appropriate social behavior to the individuals.
m)  Follow through with all scheduled community activities and document participation.  Support each person to integrate and participate in his/her community.
n)    Support each person in utilizing community resources.
o)    Respect each person’s cultural diversity and provide opportunities for activities, environment, and associations with people from their culture if they so desire.
p)    Support each person in choosing his/her daily routine.
q)    Allow individual choice in clothing, personal appearance, style, recreation and leisure activities, and other personal belongings.
r)     Assess individuals on their likes and dislikes.  Provide opportunities to expand a person’s choice base.
s)    Listen to the individuals and place importance in their ideas and preferences,
t)     Learn and use the best communication methods for each person (i.e. sign language, symbols, mannerisms, verbalizations, reactions, etc.)

       V.    MISSION

a)    Know where to find and how to utilize MCAR’s for Oregon and Multnomah County.
b)    Follow all TLC policy and procedures.
c)    Follow TLC’s mission to support residents and provide opportunity to thrive.

      VI.    WORK ETHICS

a)    Maintain a good attendance record including punctuality and leave request.
b)    Fill out time sheets accurately and legibly.  Submit them on time.
c)    Promote good working relationships.
d)    Complete all assigned duties and required documentation.
e)    Maintain a clean, neat appearance, with appropriate attire for accompanying individuals in various activities, (i.e. Church, date, ball game, etc.)
f)     Be honest and trustworthy.
g)    Seek assistance from Supervisor with work related problems. Ask for additional training when needed,
h)    Attend and actively participate in any meetings.  Provide input to Supervisor as needed.
i)     Welcome and assist any new employees.
j)     Complete all documentation as assigned to your position.
k)    Bring a positive attitude to your position. 
l)     Provide encouragement and opportunity for success to the residents. 
m)  Complete other duties as assigned by Supervisor.