DIRECT SERVICE PROFESSIONAL

Description

SUMMARY OF ROLE

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides high-quality care and direct support to individuals receiving Respite and Participant Assistance and Care (PAC) services under Indiana’s Medicaid Waiver programs. DSPs work in the individual’s home or community to support daily living activities, promote independence, and provide temporary relief to primary caregivers.

JOB DUTIES

Duties vary based on the specific needs of the client or Individual Care Plan.

Assistance with Daily Activities

• Help clients with personal hygiene tasks such as bathing, grooming, and dressing.
• Assist with mobility, including transfers in and out of bed or wheelchair.
• Provide support with toileting and incontinence care.

Meal Preparation and Nutrition

• Assist with planning and preparation nutritious meals based on the client's dietary requirements.
• Ensure that the client is receiving an appropriate and balanced diet.

Light Housekeeping

• Perform light housekeeping duties, including cleaning and maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for the client.
• Laundry and changing bed linens as needed.

Monitoring Health and Well-being

• Observe and report any changes in the client's physical or mental condition to healthcare professionals or family members.
• Medicine administration reminders
• Take vital signs if required.

Companionship and Emotional Support

• Provide companionship and engage in social activities with the client.
• Offer emotional support and encouragement.

Transportation

• Provide transportation for appointments, shopping, entertainment or other essential errands.

Communication

• Maintain open and effective communication with the client, their family, and healthcare professionals.
• Keep accurate records of care provided and any changes in the client's condition.

Safety

• Ensure the safety of the client by identifying and minimizing potential hazards in the environment.
• Follow proper procedures for emergency situations.

Respect for Dignity and Independence

• Encourage and support the client's independence and decision-making to the greatest extent possible.
• Treat clients with dignity, respect, and cultural sensitivity.

Performs other position-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

EDUCATION AND REQUIREMENTS

• High School Diploma (or GED or High School Equivalence Certificate)
• Pass 10-panel drug screen
• Clear background check: National/expanded criminal background check as required by the State of Indiana
• Completion of required TB testing
• Valid CPR/AED training certificate
• Valid driver’s license, proof of current car insurance and the ability to maintain reliable transportation
• Pass pre-employment caregiver training
• Available to work holidays if needed
• Work schedule: Flexible based on client needs

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Ability to understand and carry out directions or instructions and to keep simple records
• Able to complete housekeeping and cooking duties
• Able to use the telephone and communicate information regarding client concerns or occurrences
• Able to follow policies and guidelines with minimal supervision
• Ability to relate to and work with various personality styles, ill, disabled, and elderly
• Skilled in interpersonal relationships, reliable, trustworthy, honest, attentive, caring
• Ability to be compassionate, patient, and adapt to the unique needs and preferences of each client

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to move intermittently throughout the workday including sitting, standing and bending, pushing, or pulling.
• Ability to lift up to 60 lbs. to assist with transfers.