Direct Support Specialist VA Pierce House Job Big Stone Gap Virginia USA,Healthcare

Position: Direct Support Specialist VA - Full Time - Pierce House
Location: Big Stone Gap

Direct Support Specialist VA

All Direct Support Specialists have the primary responsibility to support people in achieving the highest level of independence. The Direct Support Specialist will provide this support via education, instruction and support of persons served.

Primary Responsibilities

Support the person to participate in the community according to their individual choice and preference.
Teach the person decision‑making skills and selection of realistic options.
Encourage the person to make informed choices, including decisions regarding his/her services.
Encourage the person to become a responsible citizen in his/her community of choice.
Provide supervision and guidance to the person for skills needed to take ownership of daily living skills and personal support needs.
Ensure the health and safety of the person and the person’s belongings at all times.
Follow procedures to report any suspicion of abuse, neglect, and/or exploitation.
Be very knowledgeable of all aspects of the ISP including special programs/plans (behavior, nutrition, safety, etc.) and immediately notify the supervisor of any needed changes to the ISP.
Recommend any needed changes in goals/outcomes and risks (health or otherwise).
At all times, treat the person as an adult, exhibiting the highest level of dignity and respect.

Primary responsibilities will be in one of the following areas (check one):
Residential, Community and Day Services, or Employment.

Educational and Experience Requirements

High School Diploma/GED preferred with applicable experience.
Valid driver’s license. Eligible for FH drivers’ insurance.
Experience in intellectual, developmental and/or mental health disabilities preferred, according to the populations served.
Ability to maintain composure in difficult situations.
Ability to safely operate 15‑passenger van.
Knowledge of adaptive/medical equipment.
Successful completion of all required training within specified time frames.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Must be flexible with schedule and assignments.

Implement and document outcomes as defined in ISP.

Complete required documentation thoroughly, accurately and daily or as assigned.

Encourage people to follow doctor‑prescribed diets and document accordingly.

Know location of persons at all times and provide supervision to keep them safe and healthy as outlined in ISPs.

Provide transportation in compliance with FH transportation policies. Maintain a safe driving record, appropriate license and eligibility to provide transportation. May include but is not limited to doctor appointments, social and recreational activities.

Attend and participate in regularly scheduled staff meetings and individual program planning as needed.

Attend and participate in HCBS (Home and Community Based Services) training and adhere to requirements.

All other duties as assigned.

Specific Duties by Service Setting Residential

Provide oversight and instructions to individuals on a continuous basis during the scheduled shift.
Assist with daily living activities including personal hygiene as identified on the Individual Support Plan (ISP).
Meal preparation duties as identified in the ISP and under possible direction of a dietitian.
Laundry duties as identified in the ISP: washing and folding laundry.
Ensure home is clean and free of odors. Duties include assistance with mopping, vacuuming, dusting, stripping beds, cleaning bathrooms and kitchen, organizing drawers, closets and cabinets.
Medication administration duties as identified in the ISP, guidelines and MAR. Count medications as assigned to residential staff on a monthly basis.
Teach the person skills needed to take responsibility for tasks including personal safety, grooming and cleanliness, household chores, meal preparation/healthy eating habits, money management, medication and health issues, work/employment skills, community awareness, and other skills necessary to become fully integrated into community.
Assist the person with duties as identified in the ISP.

Community and Day Services

Assist persons with planning meaningful and educational activities based on their goals/outcomes, interests and talents, and preferences.
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