B47815

Home Care Aide
Position Description

The Home Care Aide (HCA) is a member of the home care team who works under the supervision of a Registered Nurse and performs various personal care services as necessary to meet the client’s needs. The Home Care Aide (HCA) is responsible for observing clients, reporting these observations and documenting observations and care performed. The HCA will be assigned in a manner that promotes quality, continuity and safety of a client’s care.

Responsibilities:

• Provide client care as directed by the Registered Nurse or Case Manager
• Provide personal care:
o Bathing
o Grooming, including oral care
o Assist the client with dressing and undressing
o Assist the client with toileting activities
o Assist in feeding the client
o Feed clients who are unable to feed themselves
o Take and record vital signs (temperature, pulse, respirations and blood pressure)
o Measure and record height and weight
o Support good skin care to prevent skin breakdown (i.e. turn and reposition client, actively encourage movement)
o Assist client with active and passive range of motions as defined by the plan of care
o Provide client with help walking and transferring
o Must be able to lift, turn and transfer patients weighting up to 200 pounds.
o Able to lift 50 pounds.
o Observe client’s physical, mental and emotional conditions.
• Document and report any change to the Case Manager
• Measure and document intake and output
• Assist client in the self-administration of medication (medication reminder)
• Perform light housekeeping
• Perform meal preparation and clean up
• Change bed linens and make up the client’s bed
• Maintain an orderly client environment
• Follow principles of infection control and Universal Precautions
• Identifies and participates in performance improvement activities
• Provide transport to doctor appointments, outside activities and shopping
• Participates in client teaching according to the client’s plan of care
• Assist in providing a safe environment and promote quality patient care through adherence to established policies, procedures and standards.
• Ensure client’s rights are adhered to. These include but are not limited to:
o The right to privacy and dignity while care is being provided
o The right to accept or refuse care
o The right to confidentiality of their information
• Respond rapidly and appropriately in an emergency situation
• Use equipment properly and in a safe manner.

Qualifications:
• High school diploma or GED
• Successful completion of a home care aide program or Nursing Assistant Certification with a written and skills competency test
• Certified in CPR
• Negative TB skin test or chest x-ray
• Licensed driver with automobile that is insured in accordance with the organizations requirements.
• Self-directing with the ability to work with little direct supervision
• Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills
• Ability to express spoken and/or written ideas in English
• Empathy for the needs of the client
• Treats clients, staff and the public with courtesy, respect and presents a positive public image
• Works as a team member
• Ensures confidentiality and security of the client’s medical information