PCA

DUTIES OF POSITION Provides personal care and related services in the home for clients under the direct supervision of the RN, related services include dietary management, household services essential to the client's health and the reporting of signs, symptoms, and/or changes in the client's condition POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Follows the plan of care to help the patient to maintain good personal hygiene and maintain a healthful, safe environment, is to perform ONLY those functions specified for each individual patient 2. Plans and prepares nutritious meals, markets when instructed to do so by the Supervisor 3. Assists the patient with ambulation and assists with certain treatments as ordered by the physician and approved and supervised by the nurse 4. Assists as needed with rehabilitative processes 5. Encourages the patient to become as independent as possible according to the nursing care plan 6. Attempts to promote patient's mental alertness through involvement in activities of interest 7. Gives simple emotional and psychological support to the patient and other members of the household and establishes a relationship with patient and family which transmit trust and confidentiality 8. Prepares visit reports promptly and incorporates same into the clinical record weekly 9. Follows emergency procedures in the event of any incident: e.g., accident, injury or a significant change in patient's condition 10. Reports any change in the patient's mental or physical condition or in the home situation to his/her immediate supervisor, the staff nurse, or to the Home Care Aide supervisor JOB CONDITIONS 1. The ability to drive and the ability to access clients' homes which may not be routinely wheelchair accessible are required. 2. Hearing, eyesight and physical dexterity must be sufficient to perform a physical assessment of the client's condition and to perform client care 3. On occasion, may be required to bend, stoop, reach and move client weight up to 250 pounds; lift and/or carry up to 30 pounds. 4. Must be able to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing. EQUIPMENT OPERATION Use of BP cuff, thermometer and stethoscope Hand washing materials. COMPANY INFORMATION Has access to all client medical records which may be discussed with the Registered Nurse and the Director of Nursing QUALIFICATIONS 1. Preferably a high school diploma or equivalent 2. Must have completed a minimum of 40 hours of training which includes an introduction to personal care services 3. Must be free from health problems that may be injurious to patient, self and co-workers and must present appropriate evidence to substantiate this 4. Must comprehends the basics of personal care, housekeeping and meal preparation 5. Must understand and respect client's including ethics and confidentiality of care