HOME CARE WORKER

RISK OF EXPOSURE TO BLOODBORNE PATHOGENS – HIGH

DUTIES OF POSITION

Provides personal care and related services in the home, under the direction, instruction and supervision of a qualified supervisor

Tasks to be performed by an HCW must be assigned by and performed under the supervision of a qualified supervisor who will be responsible for the client care/services provided by the HCW

Under no circumstances may an HCW be assigned to receive or reduce any intravenous procedures, or any other sterile or invasive procedures, other than rectal temperatures or enemas.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

Follow the plan of care to provide, safe, competent care/service to the client.

Help the client to maintain good personal hygiene and assists in maintaining a healthful, safe environment.

Plan and prepare nutritious meals.

Assist the client with ambulation as approved.

Encourage the client to become as independent as possible according to the care plan.

Attempt to promote client's mental alertness through involvement in activities of interest.

Gives simple emotional and psychological support to the client and other members of the household and establishes a relationship with client and family which transmit trust and confidentiality.

Observe and report any change in the client's mental or physical condition or in the home situation to the supervisor.

Perform routine housekeeping tasks as related to a safe and comfortable environment for the client.

Prepare a visit report promptly and incorporate same in the client record weekly.

Confirm on a weekly basis, the scheduling of visits so that other necessary visits by staff members can be coordinated.

Work with personnel of other community agencies involved in the client's care.

Attend in-service as required by regulation.

Confer with the Supervisor about client’s status and care, participate in the planning of service.

Promptly report any change in client condition to the Supervisor.

Work within the Home Aide’s scope of practice, as directed by a Registered Nurse and report in writing to the Supervising Nurse.

JOB CONDITIONS

The ability to drive and assist clients in and out of a vehicle. The ability to access clients’ homes which may not be routinely wheelchair accessible is required.

Hearing, eyesight and physical dexterity must be sufficient to perform a physical assessment of the client's condition and to perform client care.

On occasion, may be required to bend, stoop, reach and move client weight up to 200 pounds; lift and/or carry up to 30 pounds.

Must be able to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing.

EQUIPMENT OPERATION

Use of BP cuff, thermometer and stethoscope and hand washing materials.

COMPANY INFORMATION

Has access to all client service records which may be discussed with the supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS

Preferably a high school diploma or equivalent.

Must have completed a minimum of 75 hours of training which includes an introduction to personal care services.

Must be free from health problems that may be injurious to client, self and co-workers and must present appropriate evidence to substantiate same.

Must comprehend the basics of personal care, housekeeping and meal preparation.

Must understand and respect client’s including ethics and confidentiality of care.