Direct Support Professional; DSP live in York, PA

Job Description

PU PURPOSE OF THE INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY DEPARTMENT:

To provide services to promote and support independence in the lives of individuals who have an intellectual disability. To enable them to live full quality lives as an integrated member of their community.

PURPOSE OF THE RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM

To provide services and support to keep individuals with intellectual disability out of institutions. To enable them to live quality lives within their community and to live as independently as possible.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) in the home is responsible for providing direct services of the highest quality to people with intellectual disabilities and possibly mental health issues so they can live in the community, live a quality life, and live as independently as possible. The DSP is responsible for the day-to-day duties necessary for the residential program to operate smoothly.

Schedules include evenings, weekends, and holidays. The DSP works directly with individuals who live in the home and must implement and document Individuals goal and intervention plans. This position may require lifting depending on the needs of the individuals

Because of the nature of this Agency, it is essential that the DSP believe in the philosophy of the Agency as well as be able to implement programs that are viable and essential to the individuals need.

Critical Elements:

a) Inspect the site regularly to ensure compliance with safety regulations

b) Check the hot water temperature to be sure it is less than 120o F

c) Closely supervise Individuals in the community as per the individuals ISP and annual assessment

d) Follow the use of Universal Precautions

e) Report all allegations or suspicions of abuse to the Incident Manager via the IM cell phone

f) Conduct monthly fire drills and fire safety checks for the home

g) Assess the Individuals safety needs and provide services and supports that will maximize their safety

h) Follow ISPs , annual assessments, behavioral support plans, SEEN plans, Medical education plans and any other implemented plans fully as they are written

i) Ensure Smoke Alarms, Radon (when applicable), and CO2 detectors are fully functioning

j) Ensure seat belts are worn in vehicles

k) Ensure all exits from the homes are free of ice, snow, and debris to the designated fire emergency meeting location

l) Report maintenance issues in a timely manner

m) Follow universal precautions

n) Implement all safety aspects and needs of the individuals as written in the ISP

Examples of duties in this area:

a) Ensure Program Coordinator has all information necessary to complete annual assessments

b) Develop services based on the Individuals interests and desires (i.e., Individual choice)

c) Implement goal plans as written to help the individuals attain higher levels of independence

d) Teach skills to Individuals and allow them to complete tasks as independently as possible

e) Implement ISPs and all support plans as they are written

f) Monitor the Individuals finances by reviewing the house accounts and other Individual spending

g) Provide encouragement and support for Individuals to become an involved member of their community

h) Assist with activities of daily living (personal hygiene, dressing, dental care, etc.)

i) Transport individuals to appointments, activities, and programs

j) Administer medications in accordance with Medication Administration Training

k) Ensure an adequate supply of medications are in the home

l) Ensure nutritious meals are prepared and served, following menus posted in the home which comply with dietary guidelines and individuals preferences

m) Provide recreational activities based on Individual interests

n) Understand hours scheduled are to meet the needs of the individuals and schedules may change if the individuals needs change

o) Adjust work schedules to meet the changing needs of the Individuals