Direct Support Professional (Healthcare)

Job Description for Direct Support Professional
Primary Role: The role of the Direct Support Professional is to integrate Independent Living LLC's Guiding Principles by providing professional, person-centered guidance and support to individuals who have physical and/or intellectual disabilities, mental health conditions, and/or medical care needs. This position provides personal or medical support as needed, teaches appropriate behaviors, and provides behavior management assistance. It also involves assisting in developing and/or teaching daily living skills as outlined in the Individual Support Plan (ISP), helping people reach personal goals, learning new skills, and integrating into the community. Support activities may include assisting individuals to meet new people, develop relationships, find employment, exercise choices, and acquire competencies to maintain daily living activities and accomplish personal goals.
Essential Functions:

Follow, implement, and provide feedback with person-centered and behavioral outcomes.
Plan, perform, or assist with cares or activities with individuals according to their preference or needs, including household chores, community involvement, social skills, personal safety, and appropriate behavior.
Provide opportunities for new experiences in the community or home.
Focus on the individual rather than the disability.
Maintain professional boundaries between team members, families, and individuals served.
Serve as a mentor and coach, providing guidance and direction while being a positive role model.
Assist in problem-solving issues.
Be creative by trying new ideas that positively impact the individuals served, team members, and the community.
Maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the job.
Ensure the safety and well-being of the individuals served at all times.
Assist individuals with self-advocacy skills and promote independence.
Transport individuals as needed to meet program objectives and individual needs, adhering to all safety policies and laws.
Support new team members by providing on-the-job training.
Exhibit flexibility to changing situations and adapt as necessary.
Participate in required meetings.
Take direction and initiate actions for cross-training at multiple sites if required.
Build relationships by facilitating friendships, partnerships, and personal and professional relationships.
Create memorable moments that positively impact our community.
Apply therapeutic intervention techniques as needed to individuals with verbal or physical aggression, if applicable.
Assist or perform personal cares by repositioning individuals if necessary, bathing, showering, exercising, range of motion, feeding, hair care, dental care, nail clipping, etc., if applicable.
Connect individuals we serve and Independent Living LLC with our community through volunteerism, integration, events, partnerships, memberships, etc.
Manage medication properly, ensuring the five rights to ensure proper medication administration and that medical appointments are attended, and physician orders and medical protocols are followed.
Display patience when working with those we serve, guardians, and co-workers.
Assist with teaching and preparing healthy meal plans to encourage optimal health.
Accurately complete, maintain, and submit all documentation and written records as required by the Office of Developmental Programs, Positive Behavior Support Plans, or other rules, regulations, and policies or procedures of the agency.
Attend workshops and complete ongoing training as required.
Prioritize multiple tasks according to need and multitask under pressure.
Look for ways to promote and improve the quality of Independent Living LLC's services.
Complete progress notes/flow charts, service outcomes, and support plans according to outcomes and supports of individuals.
Assist with updating training packets, site emergency numbers, possessions lists, team member phone lists, individual served info sheets, etc.
Maintain accurate financial management and documentation of individual funds.
Ensure routine and emergency medical services are provided.
Assist in the development and implementation of ISPs for individuals served.
Assist with ensuring vehicular maintenance is completed.
Positively support and promote Health and Wellness with individuals served.
Be team-oriented and professional by maintaining confidentiality, having a positive attitude, treating others with respect, being flexible, accepting responsibility, and utilizing open and effective communication.
Be a positive mentor and coach for new team members to ensure their job success and future.
Effectively manage and redirect behaviors, both physical and verbal.
Be trained or operate a Hoyer Lift, Van Lift (wheelchair), and/or manual lifts as needed.
Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

High school education or equivalent preferred.
Must pass a comprehensive criminal background check and be at least 18 years of age.
Dependability and reliability required.
Ability to independently problem-solve on a daily basis.
Ability to work independently with little or no supervision.
Applicant must accurately complete written documentation in a timely manner.
Must have the ability to work well with others, show a positive attitude, and maintain confidentiality.
Must be able to transfer clients (if required) using proper lifting techniques.
Required to have dependable transportation, a current driver's license, car insurance, and a driving record that meets our insurability standards.
Must pass First Aid competency, CPR, Medication Administration Course.