Caregiver

Job Summary
The Home Health Aide is a paraprofessional member of the health care team who works directly under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) and performs various services for the patient/client, the majority of which are personal care (activities of daily living). The Home Health Aide is assigned to assist in a manner that will promote a quality, safe environment for the client/patient.

Qualifications
Must be at least 18 years old and preferable a high school graduate. Home Health Aides must function at a minimum level as a Certified Nurse Assistant, must meet all State of Massachusetts regulatory laws on certifications, and have a minimum of one (1) year of work experience as an Aide(preferably in the home care setting). He/she must have successfully completed the Nurse Aide Skills Assessment test with a score of 75 Percent or better, should possess and maintain current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). HHAs must display good emotional health and be able to tolerate physically much standing, bending, stooping, and heavy lifting; must be able to read follow written instructions and document care given. He/She have three (3) satisfactory references from previous employers, should demonstrate flexibility in acceptance of assignments and a cooperative attitude towards proving services, and meet all agency requirements.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities
1. Performs only under the supervision of an RN who has provided written instructions for patient care (care plan)
2. Performs total care or assists patient in all activities of daily living/personal care, such as but not limited to bathing, grooming, linen changes, and so forth.
3. Assists patients with transfers, ambulation, and exercises as assigned.
4. Prepares nutritious meals within the patient’s diet and assists patients with eating when necessary
5. Performs light housekeeping chores, which facilitates patient self-care in the home setting
6. Assists patients to the bathroom or with use of the bedpan
7. Answers clients/patients ‘calls’ and attends to their requests promptly
8. Meets the safety needs of the client and properly (e.g. bedrails, restraints, and assistive devices).
9. Takes and records accurately vital signs (temperature, pulse, respirations, and blood pressure) reports changes to the RN.
10. Provides proper care and observation of the client’s skin to prevent breakdown over tissue prominence
11. Observes general conditions and reports changes to the supervisory RN.
12. Completes records accurately and carries out all assignments as requested.