Direct Support Staff

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Direct Support Staff works under the general supervision of the Home

Supervisor. The DSS shares responsibilities with other staff for the daily

operations of the group home and supervision, training, assessment, and

assistance of the residents served by Advo Companies, Inc. Hours consist of evenings, weekends, and overnights

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• GED, High School Diploma or ABLE test (provided on site) along with 3 letters of recommendation.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must have valid Texas Drivers License.
• Must be able to lift at least 50lbs.
• Must have a good driving record.
• Must pass pre-employment drug screening.
• Must have the ability to read and understand written and verbal instructions.
• Must be dependable, punctual, and maintain a regular work schedule.
• Must be able to work hours other than those regularly scheduled and in other Advo Companies Inc., group homes and be open to overtime.
• One-year experience in human delivery services preferred.
• Must be able to complete training, both academic and physical, i.e.: CPR,
• First Aid, and Prevention Management of Aggressive Behavior.
• Must have a wristwatch with a second hand.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Primary Duties:

• Ensure the health and safety of all individuals by:
  • Notify Medical Personnel IQMRP of any individual's symptoms of distress/illness.
  • Maintain a safe I hazard-free environment.
  • Conduct evacuation drills as requested by your supervisor.
  • Accompany individuals to medical appointments, as requested.
  • Monitor and document accurate times of seizures, PMAB restraints and any other time frames as directed.

• Ensure all daily hygiene and grooming needs performed and individuals present a clean and neat appearance, including:
  • Toileting
  • Bathing and shampooing
  • Hair and Nail Care
  • Shaving (males and females)
  • Oral Hygiene
  • Dressing (neat, of proper fit, clean, appropriate weather, etc.)
  • General Hygiene and Grooming
  • FEMALE STAFF ONLY - Menstrual Care
  • Ensure appropriate grooming supplies and appliances are available and in good repair.
  • Notify Home Supervisor of needed clothing/supplies, etc.

• Complete meal preparation, including:
  • Prepare all meals according to menu/diet
  • Serve all meals and snacks in a normalized atmosphere with all individuals included in the meal.
  • Serve all meals and snacks within the portion-sized guidelines indicated in the individuals' doctor's orders following the rules andpractices of good nutrition.
  • Practicing recommended sanitation techniques.
  • Provide all recommended adaptive feeding equipment.
  • Implement all recommended feeding goals and guidelines.
  • Ensure the cleanliness of utensils, plates, tables, chairs, etc., before and after the meal.

• Implement continuous Active Treatment with all individuals through:
  • Conduct and document all goal-related training objectives as recommended by the IT.
  • Conduct and document appropriate and normalized daily living skills (i.e., meal preparation, cleaning house, etc.)
  • Conduct and document appropriate and normalized daily living skills (i.e., community outings, neighborhood walks, etc.)
  • Integrate skill development emphasized outside of the home (i.e., school, work, etc.)
  • Prompt and encourage independence in self-help not related to a training goal, as needed.
    

• Ensure the individual rights through:
  • Maintain confidentiality of individuals.
  • Assist individuals in maintaining contact with family and friends through written correspondence, telephone calls, or visits maintaining the privacy of all individuals in the home.
  • Treat all individuals and authorized visitors (family, friends, advocates, consultants, etc.) in a respective manner.
  • Ensure that all individuals in the home have access and use of personal property, and that property is maintained appropriately.
  • Supervise, as needed, trust fund expenditures and use of personal funds with the individuals.
  • Report all known or suspected violations of rights immediately.

• Provide safe transportation through:
  • Transport individuals to regular activities and scheduled outings.
  • Maintain a valid Texas Drivers License and Insurability.
  • Maintain clean appearance and condition of the vehicles.

• Ensure the smooth operation of the home through:
  • Maintain cleanliness and appearance of the home.
  • Perform all duties necessary to the operation of the home when other staff normally assigned to those duties are not available.
  • Notify Home Supervisor of needed supplies I materials.
  • Notify Home Supervisor of needed home maintenance/repair.
  • Complete laundry duties as directed.
  • Use and maintain property in the home appropriately.
  • Maintain cleanliness and condition of adaptive equipment.