A nurse currently licensed and registered in the state of practice, which provides professional services within the scope of nursing practice standards in collaboration with primary care physicians, teaches and educates patients and their families. Professional skilled nursing is performed under the supervision of the Administrator/Director of Nursing.

Qualifications:

• Graduate of an approved professional nursing program (RN)
• Currently, licensed “in good standing” in PA
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience as a professional nurse, preferably in home care
• Must have a criminal background check
• Must have current CPR certification

Responsibilities:

• Furnishes those services requiring substantial and specialized nursing skill
• Initiates appropriate preventative and rehab nursing procedures
• Prepares & submits timely, clinical and progress notes
• Oversees coordination of patient services
• Informs MD and other staff of changes in PT situation or needs
• Completes medical history/home safety check/environmental assessments
• Performs socio-psychological evaluation
• Performs assessment visit and documents timely. (ie. OASIS/ Skilled Nursing Note etc.)
• Performs physical examination and review of all body systems and documents accordingly
• Develops individualized Plan of Care (POC) to be submitted to the physician for approval and implementation and performs necessary revisions based upon patient needs
• Determines medical necessity for other services
• Regularly re-evaluates the patient’s nursing needs
• Evaluates the patient’s ADL and iADL abilities and need for home health aide
• Develops and implements the HHA plan of care when HHA services are ordered. Revises and signs this care plan the beginning of each certification period
• Supervises HHA in accordance with state/federal requirements and documents the supervision
• Orders “other” professional services that may be appropriate to the needs
• Reviews billing processes with patient and/or family advising patient and/or family when co-pay or Medicare is not likely to pay for services
• Effectively communicates ongoing with patient and family progression/changes in POC
• Effectively communicates with Supervisor/Nursing Director/other disciplines in the case
• Communication with the patient’s MD (verbally and/or in writing) to obtain effective treatment modalities and/or rehabilitative therapy modalities
• Actively communicates in the case conferencing sessions to establish best practices
• Submits requests for re-authorization of “more visits needed” to payers timely
• Coordinates Community Services for the patient to assist in safe home care needs
• Participates in the Performance Improvement Committee process
• Performs timely clinical record reviews (CRR) per Agency policy in collaboration with the Nursing Supervisor
• Participates in ongoing staff meetings/in-services
• Participates in the growth of office by being a willing preceptor for same discipline employees
• Participates in the planning, operation and evaluation of the nursing services of the organization
• Maintains professional licensure per state requirements
• Notifies the Agency of emergencies, sickness, and other imminent occurrences that may affect the patient caseload as quickly as possible relative to the event’s occurrence
• Submits written time requests 2 weeks or more in advance of planned time off
• Other duties as assigned

A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) currently licensed and registered in the state of practice, who provides practical nursing skills within the scope of nursing practice standards in collaboration with RN case managers/supervisors, teaches and educates patients and their families according to the established professional plan of care. Licensed Practical nursing is performed under the supervision of the assigned RN’s, Administrator, and Director of Nursing.

Qualifications:

• Graduate of an approved LPN nursing school
• Currently, licensed “in good standing” in PA
• A minimum of one (1) year of experience as a licensed practical nurse, preferably in a home care setting
• Must have a criminal background check
• Must have current CPR certification

Responsibilities:

• Maintains the nursing frequency established by the supervising RN
• Follows the plan of care established by the supervising RN
• Prepares equipment & materials for treatments observing aseptic techniques as required
• Performs home safety check and environmental check of the patient’s home environment on all visits. Reports any unsafe or potentially unsafe condition to the supervising RN
• Performs nursing visit and documents accordingly (Skilled Nursing Note etc.) Uses care to always sign credentials anywhere a nursing signature is needed
• Reviews and follows the supervising RN’s plan of care, communicating frequently with the supervising RN on any suggested changes necessary
• Collaborates with the supervising RN on a weekly (or more frequent basis) to benchmark toward the established outcome goals
• Reviews the patient’s ADL and iADL abilities and therefore need of support services such as home health aide. Communicates any suggested changes to the supervising RN
• Teaching patients & family self-care techniques
• Reinforces the HHA plan of care when HHA services are ordered
• Effectively communicates with patient and family the POC and progression of such. Keeps the patient informed ongoing
• Effectively communicates with other disciplines in the case (actively participates in case conferencing) to effectively and appropriately problem solve as situations arise
• Communicates effectively with the supervising RN, scheduled visits planned and changes to the schedule on a weekly basis. Caseload is self-scheduled but communication of the clinician’s schedule to the nursing supervisor is essential
• Communicates in case conferencing sessions
• Effectively functioning as an involved team member to collaborate on best practices for the individual patient’s needs
• Submits accurate, complete paperwork at the end of every week so that all medical records are intact and up to date. Uses the drop box if the office is already closed for the weekend
• Notifies the supervising RN with requests for re-authorization of “more visits needed” prior to third party insurers authorized number of visits expiring
• Suggests Community Services that may be available to the patient to assist in safe home care needs
• Understands that the fiscal and clinical management of each case is directly linked to the success of his/her office. Assures that visits are not done that cannot be billed
• Participates in the QA Committee process as requested to do so
• Participates in the monthly staff meeting as part of the requirements of the position; Adjusts visits on the staff meeting day to accommodate this important function
• Participates in the growth of the office by being a willing preceptor for newly hired, same discipline employees
• Maintains LPN licensure and actively seeks out educational experiences to enhance the practice of home care nursing for her/him and the benefit of the patients serviced
• Notifies the Agency of emergencies, sickness, and other imminent occurrences that may affect the patient caseload as quickly as possible relative to the event’s occurrence
• Submits written time requests 2 weeks or more in advance of planned time off

A Physical Therapist currently licensed and registered in the state of practice, which provides professional services within the scope of physical therapy practice standards in collaboration with primary care physicians and other members of the health care team and teaches and educates patients and their families.

Qualifications:

• Successful completion and graduate of a PT Program approved by the Commission on Accreditation in PT education (CAPTE) or successor organizations of the CAPTE or an education program outside of the United States determined to be substantially equivalent to physical therapist entry level education in the US by a credentials eval organization approved by the American PT Association or an organization identified in 8 CFR 212.15(e) as it relates to physical therapists
• A current, active license to practice Physical Therapy in PA
• A minimum of two (2) years experience as a Physical Therapist
• Criminal background check and current CPR certification
• If trained outside of the United States before January 1, 2008, meets the following requirements:
1. Was graduated since 1928 from a PT curriculum approved in the country in which the curriculum was located and in which there is a member organization of the World Conference for Physical Therapy
2. Meets the requirements for membership in a membership organization of the World Confederation for Physical Therapy

Responsibilities:

• Receives the intake referral information and prepares paperwork/tools necessary for the visit
• Obtains all pertinent medical history from patient, family or significant others
• Performs home safety check and environmental assessment of the patient’s home environment
• Performs the socio-psychological evaluation of the support systems available to the patient and documents necessary emergency contacts etc.
• Performs assessment visit and documents accordingly
• Performs physical examination and review of all body systems and documents such accordingly
• Develops an appropriate and effective Plan of Care (POC) to be submitted to the physician for approval and implementation
• Determines medical necessity for other services that could enhance the positive outcome desirable for the case
• Evaluates the patient’s ADL and iADL abilities and therefore need of support services such as home health aide
• Develops and implements the HHA plan of care when HHA services are ordered and PT is the only skilled discipline
• Supervises the HHA in accordance with state/federal requirements and documents the supervision without having to be directed to do so, when PT is the only skilled discipline
• Orders “other” professional services that are effective and is willing adjust frequency of these services as outcome progresses and the patient’s condition warrants
• Reviews billing processes with patient and/or family advising patient and/or family when co-pay or Medicare is not likely to pay for services (ABN)
• Effectively communicates with patient and family the POC and progression of such. Keeps the patient informed ongoing
• Effectively instructs patients and families in the safe use of prosthetic, orthotic, and assistive devices (canes, walkers, wheelchairs, mechanical lifts etc.)
• Effectively communicates with other disciplines in the case (case conferencing) to effectively and appropriately problem solve as situations arise
• Communicates effectively with the Director of Nursing/Nursing Supervisor scheduled visits planned and changes to the schedule on a weekly basis. Caseload is self-scheduled but communication of the clinician’s schedule is essential
• Communication with the patient’s physician (verbally and/or in writing) to obtain effective treatment modalities and/or rehabilitative therapy modalities to effect the best means to obtain the desired outcome for the specific medical problem that caused the case to open and/or recertify
• Assists the physician in evaluating patients by applying diagnostic and prognostic muscle, nerve, joint and functional ability tests
• Provides therapy to relieve pain and/or develop or restore function to maintain maximum performance
• Communicates in the case conferencing sessions to establish best practices for the individual patient’s needs
• Submits accurate, complete paperwork at the end of every week so that all medical records are intact and up to date. Uses the drop box if the office is already closed for the weekend
• Submits ALL OASIS assessments/documentation within 48 hours of the OASIS visit
• Submits requests for re-authorization of “more visits needed” prior to third party insurers authorized number of visits expiring
• Coordinates Community Services that may be available to the patient to assist in safe home care needs
• Understands that the fiscal and clinical management of each case is directly linked to the success of his/her office. Assures that visits are not done that cannot be billed
• Participates in the Performance Improvement Committee process as requested to do so
• Performs at least 5 clinical record reviews (CRR) per month in collaboration with the Nursing Supervisor (Peer Review); Submits the CRR timely each month
• Participates in the monthly staff meeting as part of the requirements of the position; Adjusts visits on the staff meeting day to accommodate this important function
• Participates in the growth of the office by being a willing preceptor for newly hired, same discipline employees
• Participates in the planning, operation and evaluation of the therapy services of the organization
• Maintains professional licensure and actively seeks out educational experiences to enhance the practice of home care physical therapy for her/him and the benefit of the patients serviced
• Notifies the Agency of emergencies, sickness, and other imminent occurrences that may affect the patient caseload as quickly as possible relative to the event’s occurrence
• Submits written time requests 2 weeks or more in advance of planned time off

Under the supervision of the Physical Therapist and according to established treatment plans and specific procedures, provides treatment to physical therapy patients in order to assist them in regaining physical mobility and function, increase strength, and decrease pain.

Qualifications:

• Graduated from a physical therapist assistant curriculum approved by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education of the American Physical Therapy Association
• Current PTA license in the state of practice
• A minimum of two (2) years experience as a PTA. preferably in home health care
• Criminal background check & and other state required checks for compliance
• Current CPR certification
• If educated outside the United States or trained in the United States military, graduated from an education program determined to be substantially equivalent to PTA entry level education in the United States by a credentials evaluation organization approved by the American Physical Therapy Association or identified at 8 CFR 212.15(e); and
1. Passed a national examination for physical therapist assistants
2. Has a current PTA license in the state of practice
3. Has a minimum of two (2) years experience as a PTA, preferably in the homecare setting

Responsibilities:

• Assists Physical Therapist in the implementation of individual patient physical therapy care plans; performs daily physical therapy assignments to accomplish patient therapy plans and treatment goals
• Responsible for the daily care of assigned patients per patient POC
• Guides patients through prescribed exercise programs, including passive, assistive, and resistive exercise routines designed to develop or enhance strength, muscle tone, and range of motion
• May participate in the development of home exercise programs designed to meet individualized patient needs
• Applies heat, light, water, and electrically based treatments/modalities (i.e., ultrasound, infra-red lamp, muscle stimulation, traction, hot and cold packs, paraffin baths, whirlpool, diathermy, etc.) to stimulate muscle/nerve function
• Assists patients in gait training (i.e., the use of parallel bars, walkers, crutches, canes, braces, etc.) in order to improve ambulatory skills
• Performs other therapeutic activities such as massage and body mechanics instruction (utilizing goniometer tests and indices)
• Observes patient condition during treatment and notes any significant change in patient condition
• Seeks assistance from professional therapist or medical personnel when appropriate
• Records patient response to treatment and overall progress in patient charts
• Refers patients to Physical Therapist for reevaluation as necessary
• Prepares patient referrals as requested by Physical Therapist
• Advises professional team members of patient progress and perceived effectiveness of treatments; may suggest revision of treatment plan to better meet patient needs and capabilities
• Escorts/transports patients to physical therapy area, giving verbal guidance to maximal physical assistance as required; obtains wheelchairs, carts, walkers, etc. and assists patients into chairs and onto carts and table as necessary and provides physical support at all times
• Prepares physical therapy equipment by filling tanks, checking and adjusting controls, setting timing devices, and so forth
• Cleans and maintains treatment areas by cleaning and changing mats, changing linen, cleaning and refilling equipment, etc.
• Follows sterile procedures and guidelines and ensures that all equipment is working properly and reports needed repairs to supervisor
• Assists in procuring supplies from other Health Center areas and in properly storing unit supplies
• Assists in scheduling patients, preparation of daily schedules, and maintenance of daily census of physical therapy patients
• Assists Physical Therapist in coordinating patient load
• Prepares charges for services provided and enter charges into computer
• Remains abreast of developments in the field of physical therapy technology by pursuing a program of self development, attending in service and continuing education programs, and so forth
• Performs related duties as required

An Occupational Therapist currently licensed/registered in PA, who provides professional services within the scope of occupational therapy practice standards in collaboration with primary care physicians and other members of the health care team and teaches and educates patients and their families. Occupational Therapy in the home is performed under the supervision of the RN case manager, Administrator, Director of Nursing.

Qualifications:

• Graduated after successful completion of an OT education Program accredited by the Accreditation Council for OT Education (ACOTE) of the American OT Association (AOTA) or successor organizations and is eligible to take or has successfully completed the entry level certification exam for OTs from the NBCOT
• Currently, licensed “in good standing” in PA
• Will have a minimum of two (2) year experience as a OT, preferably in a homecare setting
• Criminal background check and current CPR certification
• If educated outside of the United States must meet both of the following:
1. Graduated after successful completion of an OT education program accredited as substantially equivalent to OT entry level education in the US by one of the following: Accreditation Council for OT Education (ACOTE), successor organizations of ACOTE, the World Federation of OTs, a credentialing body approved by the American OT Association, successfully completed the entry level certification exam for OTs developed and administered by the National Board for Certification in OCC Therapy (NBCOT)
2. On or before December 31, 2009, is licensed or otherwise regulated, if applicable, as an OT by the state in which practicing

Responsibilities:

• Receives the intake referral information and prepares paperwork/tools necessary for the visit
• Continuing OASIS data sets
• Obtains all pertinent medical history from patient, family or significant others
• Performs home safety check and environmental assessment of the patient’s home environment
• Performs the socio-psychological evaluation of the support systems available to the patient and documents necessary emergency contacts etc.
• Performs evaluation or skilled visit and documents accordingly
• Performs physical examination and review of all body systems and documents such accordingly
• Develops an appropriate and effective Plan of Care (POC) to be submitted to the physician for approval and implementation
• Evaluates the patient’s ADL and iADL abilities and therefore need of support services such as home health aide
• Develops and implements the HHA plan of care when HHA services are ordered. Revises and signs this care plan the beginning of each certification period if nursing has already discharged out of the case
• Supervises the HHA in accordance with state/federal requirements and documents the supervision without having to be directed to do so
• Establishes goals based on the patient’s current level of functioning and potential for improvement
• Reviews billing processes with patient and/or family advising patient and/or family when co-pay or Medicare is not likely to pay for services (ABN)
• Effectively communicates with patient and family the POC and progression of such. Keeps the patient informed ongoing
• Effectively instructs patients and families in the prescribed therapeutic, self-care and other activities that are directed at improving independence and physical and/or mental functioning
• Effectively establishes household management routines
• Effectively communicates with other disciplines in the case (case conferencing) to effectively and appropriately problem solve as situations arise
• Communicates effectively with the Director of Nursing or Nursing Supervisor scheduled visits planned and changes to the schedule on a weekly basis. Caseload is self-scheduled but communication of the clinician’s schedule is essential
• Communication with the patient’s physician (verbally and/or in writing) to obtain effective treatment modalities and/or assistive therapy modalities to effect the best means to obtain the desired outcome for the specific medical problem that caused the case to open and/or recertify
• Instructs patients and/or families in the safe use of prosthetic, orthotic and assistive devices (canes, walkers, wheelchairs and mechanical lifts)
• Communicates in the case conferencing sessions to establish best practices for the individual patient’s needs
• Submits accurate, complete paperwork at the end of every week so that all medical records are intact and up to date. Uses the drop box if the office is already closed for the weekend
• Submits requests for re-authorization of “more visits needed” prior to third party insurers authorized number of visits expiring
• Coordinates Community Services that may be available to the patient to assist in safe home care needs
• Understands that the fiscal and clinical management of each case is directly linked to the success of his/her office. Assures that visits are not done that cannot be billed
• Participates in the Performance Improvement Committee process as requested to do so
• Performs clinical record reviews (CRR) per agency policy in collaboration with the Nursing Supervisor (Peer Review); Submits the CRR timely
• Participates in the monthly staff meeting as part of the requirements of the position; Adjusts visits on the staff meeting day to accommodate this important function
• Participates in the growth of the office by being a willing preceptor for newly hired, same discipline employees
• Participates in the planning, operation and evaluation of the therapy services of the organization
• Maintains professional licensure and actively seeks out educational experiences to enhance the practice of home care occupational therapy for her/him and the benefit of the patients serviced
• Notifies the Agency of emergencies, sickness, and other imminent occurrences that may affect the patient caseload as quickly as possible relative to the event’s occurrence
• Submits written time requests 2 weeks or more in advance of planned time off

An Occupational Therapist Assistant, currently licensed and registered in PA, who provides professional services within the scope of occupational therapy practice standards in collaboration with primary care physicians and other members of the health care team and teaches and educates patients and their families.

Qualifications:

• Is licensed or otherwise regulated, if applicable, as an OT assistant by the state in which practicing, unless licensure does apply
• Graduated after successful completion of an OTA education program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education, (ACOTE) of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. (AOTA) or its successor organizations
• Is eligible to take or successfully completed the entry-level certification examination for OTAs developed and administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT)
• A minimum of two (2) years experience as an OTA, preferably in the homecare setting
• Current CPR certification
• Or, if educated outside the United States, on or after January 1, 2008—
  Graduated after successful completion of an occupational therapy assistant education program that is accredited as substantially equivalent to occupational therapist assistant entry level education in the United States by:
1. The Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE)
2. Its successor organizations
3. The World Federation of Occupational Therapists
4. By a credentialing body approved by the American Occupational Therapy Association; and
5. Successfully completed the entry level certification examination for occupational therapy assistants developed and administered by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy, Inc. (NBCOT)

Responsibilities:

• Provides OTA services under the supervision of the OT
• Follows an established POC for each patient
• With the OT, assists in the eval and implementation of the rehab program for the patient
• Performs ongoing safety check and environmental assessment during scheduled visits
• Effectively communicates with patient and family
• Effectively communicates with their supervisor to problem solve as situations arise
• Communicates in the case conferencing sessions, as appropriate, to establish best practices for the individual patient’s needs
• Submits accurate, complete paperwork for each visit so that all medical records are intact and up to date
• Participates in the QA Committee process as appropriate
• Participates in the monthly staff meetings/in-services as part of the requirements of the position
• Maintains professional licensure and actively seeks out educational experiences to enhance the practice of home care occupational therapy for her/himself and the benefit of the patients serviced
• Notifies the Agency/Supervisor of emergencies, sickness, and other imminent occurrences that may affect the patient caseload as quickly as possible relative to the event’s occurrence
• Submits written time requests 2 weeks or more in advance of planned time off

An MSW, currently licensed and registered in PA, who provides medical social services within the scope of MSW practice standards in collaboration with primary care physicians and other members of the health care team and teaches and educates patients and their families. Medical Social Services in the home is performed under the supervision of the Administrator, Director of Nursing.

Qualifications:

• A Masters or Doctorate degree from a social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education
• Will have a minimum of one (1) year experience in Social Work in a health care setting, preferably in homecare
• Currently licensed “in good standing” in the PA
• Must have a criminal background check
• Must have current CPR certification

Responsibilities:

• Receives the intake referral information and prepares paperwork/tools necessary
• Obtains all pertinent medical history from patient, family or significant others
• Performs home safety check and environmental assessment of the patient’s home environment
• Performs the socio-psychological evaluation of the support systems available to the patient and documents necessary emergency contacts etc. Assists patients and their families with personal and environmental difficulties which predispose then toward illness or interfere with obtaining maximum benefits from medical care (counseling members of the family to assisting patients with admission to a nursing home)
• Performs the skilled visit and documents accordingly
• Provides supportive casework designed to restore patient’s to their optimum level of social adjustment. This includes assisting patients and their families to understand, accept and follow medical recommendations
• Assists patients utilize the resources of their families and the community at large. Resource utilization may include referring the patients to community resources or acting as an intermediary on behalf of the patients with other health and welfare agencies
• Effectively communicates with patient and family. Keeps the patient informed ongoing
• Effectively communicates with other disciplines in the case (case conferencing) to effectively and appropriately problem solve as situations arise
• Communicates effectively with the Director of Nursing or Nursing Supervisor scheduled visits planned and changes to the schedule on a weekly basis. Caseload is self scheduled but communication of the clinician’s schedule is essential
• Communication with the patient’s physician (verbally and/or in writing) to obtain effective treatment modalities to effect the best means to obtain the desired outcome
• Communicates in the case conferencing sessions to establish best practices for the individual patient’s needs
• Submits accurate, complete paperwork at the end of every week so that all medical records are intact and up to date. Uses the drop box if the office is already closed for the weekend
• Coordinates Community Services that may be available to the patient to assist in safe home care needs
• Understands that the fiscal and clinical management of each case is directly linked to the success of his/her office. Assures that visits are not done that cannot be billed
• Participates in the QA Committee process as requested to do so
• Notifies the Agency of emergencies, sickness, and other imminent occurrences that may affect the patient caseload as quickly as possible relative to the event’s occurrence
• Submits written time requests 2 weeks or more in advance of planned time off

The home health aide provides personal care and related services in the home. She/he functions under the direction, instruction and supervision of the staff nurse and the Director of Nursing and/or appropriate supervisor.

Qualifications:

• Prefer Completion of the 9th grade; prefer high school graduate or equivalent
• Ability to read and write in English, consistent with job requirements
• Has a reliable means of transportation to get to assigned patient visits
• Must have a criminal background check and current CPR certification
• Meets one of the following:
1. A home health aide training and competency evaluation program as specified by CMS in the CoP § 484.80 (b) and (c) respectively, OR
2. A competency evaluation program that meets CMS specifications, OR
3. A nurse aide training and competency evaluation program approved by the state as meeting the requirements of 42 CFR 483.151-154, OR
4. The requirements of a state licensure program that meets the provisions of CMS Home Health CoP § 484.80 (b) and (c)

Responsibilities:

• To assist with ADLS and iADLs as per the POC
• To follow the POC for each patient and document the same
• Helps the patient to maintain good personal hygiene
• Assists in maintaining a healthful, safe environment
• Plans and prepares nutritious meals; Markets when indicated on the POC
• Assists the patient with ambulation as per the POC
• Assist with certain treatments as directed by the skilled nurse
• Assists the therapy personnel as needed with rehabilitative processes
• May cue for medications ordinarily self-administered as assigned
• Taking and charting vital signs under the supervision of nursing staff
• Encourages the patient to become as independent as possible according to the nursing care plan
• Attempts to promote patient’s mental alertness through involvement in activities
• Gives simple emotional and psychological support to the patient and other members of the household
• Establishes a relationship with patient and family which transmits trust and confidentiality
• Prepares a report of her visit on the day it is performed and incorporates same in the clinical record weekly or as directed
• Reports any change in the patient’s status or home situation to her immediate supervisor, the staff nurse, or the aide supervisor, including recognizing & reporting skin changes
• Carries out their assignment as instructed by the nurse or the paramedical team and documents and reports to the nurse when she is unable to do so
• Works with personnel of other community agencies involved in the patient’s care as directed by the staff nurse
• Performs routine housekeeping tasks as related to a safe and comfortable environment for the patient, as instructed by the professional nurse
• An active participant on the interdisciplinary team & QA program
• Attends in-service as required by state and federal regulations
• Confirming on a weekly basis, the scheduling of visits with the Supervisor/Director, to coordinate necessary visits with other personnel
• Notifying the agency of absences due to illness, emergency leave, normal vacation periods, or special professional meetings, which will affect agreed service with the agency
• Wears the agency’s name badge at all time they are seeing agency patients

The CNA provides personal care and related services in the home and functions under the direction, instruction and supervision of the staff nurse and the DPS and/or appropriate supervisor.

Qualifications:

• Prefer Completion of the 9th grade; prefer high school graduate or equivalent
• Ability to read and write in English, consistent with job requirements
• Completion of a qualified, state approved training program consistent with state and federal requirements and for which a CNA certificate was obtained
• Satisfactory performance on a competency evaluation
• The emotional and mental maturity necessary for establishing and maintaining a good work relationship with the patient, patient’s family, and the personnel of the agency
• Reliable means of transportation to get to assigned patient visits
• Current CPR certification
• Must have a criminal background check & other checks as required

Responsibilities:

• To assist with ADLS and iADLs as per the POC
• To follow the POC for each patient and document the same
• Helps the patient to maintain good personal hygiene
• Assists in maintaining a healthful, safe environment
• Plans and prepares nutritious meals; Markets when indicated on the POC
• Assists the patient with ambulation as per the POC
• Assist with certain treatments as directed by the skilled nurse
• Assists the therapy personnel as needed with rehabilitative processes
• May cue for medications ordinarily self-administered as assigned
• Taking and charting vital signs under the supervision of nursing staff
• Encourages the patient to become as independent as possible according to the nursing care plan
• Attempts to promote patient’s mental alertness through involvement in activities
• Gives simple emotional and psychological support to the patient and other members of the household
• Establishes a relationship with patient and family which transmits trust and confidentiality
• Prepares a report of her visit on the day it is performed and incorporates same in the clinical record weekly or as directed
• Reports any change in the patient’s status or home situation to her immediate supervisor, the staff nurse, or the aide supervisor, including recognizing & reporting skin changes
• Carries out their assignment as instructed by the nurse or the paramedical team and documents and reports to the nurse when she is unable to do so
• Works with personnel of other community agencies involved in the patient’s care as directed by the staff nurse
• Performs routine housekeeping tasks as related to a safe and comfortable environment for the patient, as instructed by the professional nurse
• An active participant on the interdisciplinary team & QA program
• Attends in-service as required by state and federal regulations
• Confirming on a weekly basis, the scheduling of visits with the Supervisor/Director, to coordinate necessary visits with other personnel
• Notifying the agency of absences due to illness, emergency leave, normal vacation periods, or special professional meetings, which will affect agreed service with the agency
• Wears the agency’s name badge at all time they are seeing agency patients

A person, who under professional supervision, provides assistance with nutritional and environmental support, personal hygiene, feeding and dressing.

Qualifications:

• Has successfully completed one of the following:
1. Demonstrated competency by passing a competency exam developed by the Agency or other entity which meets the PA regulatory requirements
2. A training program developed by the Agency that meets all the PA state requirements
3. A training program meeting the training standards by virtue of the agency’s participation as a provider in a Medicaid Waiver or other publically funded program providing home & community based services
4. Another program identified by the PA DOH by subsequent publication in the PA Bulletin or on the DOH website
• Shows an interest and concern for people, good judgment and tact in dealing with the sick
• Practices good hygiene and is neat in personal appearance
• Speaks, reads, and writes English
• Must have current CPR certification
• Must have criminal background check

Personal Care Assists With:

• Bath (tub, shower or bed)
• Oral hygiene
• Grooming and care of hair
• Ordinary care of nails
• Routine skin care/lotion massage
• Positioning and turning of patents that cannot assist self- in bed and chair
• Elimination
• Assist with eating, dressing walking and toileting
• Remind patient to take medications

Homemaking Assists With:

• Meal planning and preparation in accordance with complex and modified diets
• Feeding the patient
• Linen change (occupied and unoccupied)
• Laundry, patient’s only
• Light housekeeping; washing dishes, clean kitchen, dust & vacuum, only those rooms the patient uses
• List needed supplies and grocery shopping

PCAs Are Required To:

• Follow universal precautions whenever giving any aspect of patient care
• Maintain confidentiality
• Perform ONLY those functions specified for each individual patient on the POC
• Respond to the physical, emotional and development needs of patients
• Follow emergency procedures in the event of any incident, e.g., accident, injury or significant change in patient’s condition

Essential Administrative Functions:

• Follow patient rights at all times
• Record each activity performed on each case on a daily basis
• Report any incident or change in condition of patient or environment immediately
• Submit Daily Activity Sheets and record accurately on a timely basis (WEEKLY)
• Follow instructions, is punctual and is at work as scheduled
• Follow all appropriate agency policies
• Attend in-service education annually per agency policy
• Provide all information required for the maintenance of her/his personnel record as per state regulations
• Show interest, asks questions and seek help as indicated; is receptive to supervision
• Develop relationships and is cooperative with patient, family and supervisor
• Maintain appropriate appearance
• Is productive and uses time efficiently
• Follows instructions, is punctual and attendance is acceptable
• Cooperates with supervisor and with patient/family
• Is self-reliant and plans appropriately
• Other duties as are reasonably assigned

The homemaker is a paraprofessional employee, trained to provide, home maintenance services for patients under the direct supervision of the nursing supervisor. Homemaking services include dietary management, household services essential to the patient’s health and wellbeing, and provision of and instruction in reporting of signs, symptoms, and/or changes in the patient’s condition. The homemaker is assigned to a patient by the coordinator and is given a written assignment sheet.

Qualifications:

• Successful completion of at least 40 hours of generic training to be completed by the end of the 6th month of employment (can be done by shadowing/precepting) or verification of homemaking services provided in the community equivalent to 40 hours
• Use of an automobile with possession of liability insurance is desirable
• Must be able to read, write and follow instructions in English
• Selected on the basis of such factors as: an interest in people, tact, dependability in employment, neatness in appearance/practices, good personal hygiene, and good judgment
• One (1) year of work experience
• Must have a criminal background check
• Must have current CPR certificate

Responsibilities:

• Shopping with an effort to economize and preparation of nutritious and appetizing meals
• Assisting with simple health care routines such as reminders to maintain diet restriction, medication regimen, and recommended exercises and cueing to take meds
• Observation, and feedback to the coordinator/nursing supervisor on patient’s behavior, mood, and adjustment in the home
• Being supportive and encouragement during periods of loneliness, depressions, bereavement etc.
• Providing routine housekeeping tasks, which are required
• Caring for clothing, washing, drying, folding and putting away
• Follows the POC for housekeeping tasks
• Records observations and tasks and signs each entry on the appropriate form for each visit made
• Communicates on a weekly basis or more often as necessary with the nursing supervisor
• Immediately reports emergency situations by phone to nursing supervisor or office
• Keeps an accurate time and mileage report
• Follows assignments and regulations
• Follows specific office orders for each patient
• Uses homemaker policy manual as guidelines
• Works within the organizational channel of authority and knows the area of responsibility of all other team members
• Wears appropriate clothing and ID badge when at work

Confirming on a weekly basis, the scheduling of visits with the Supervisor/Director, to coordinate necessary visits with other personnel.

Notifying the Agency of absences due to illness, emergency leave, normal vacation periods, or special professional meetings, which will affect agreed service with the Agency.

The Companion is a paraprofessional, providing visitation, support and companionship in the home for patients under the direct supervision of a qualified supervisor. Companion services include support, encouragement, companionship, respite breaks for family or caregivers, and provision of and instruction in reporting of signs, symptoms, and/or changes in the patient’s condition. The Companion is assigned to a patient by the coordinator and is given a written assignment sheet.

Qualifications:

• High School graduate with at least 1 year experience as a companion or life working experience
• Complete an Agency training/orientation program
• Effective interpersonal communication skills
• Get along well with people and exercise good judgment
• Use of an automobile with possession of liability insurance is desirable
• Must be able to read, write in English and follow instructions
• Selected on the basis of such factors as: an interest in people, tact, a history of emotional stability, dependability in employment, neatness in appearance and practices, good personal hygiene, and good judgment
• Must have a criminal background check

Responsibilities:

• Provide respite breaks for family or caregivers
• Provide assistance with reading and writing correspondence and publications
• Observation and feedback to the coordinator/nursing supervisor on patient’s behavior, mood, and adjustment in the home
• Notifies superior of any safety issues
• Being supportive and encouragement during periods of loneliness, depressions, bereavement etc.
• Follows the care plan for tasks
• Records observations and tasks and signs each entry on the appropriate form for each visit made
• Communicates on a weekly basis or more often as necessary with the nursing supervisor
• Immediately reports emergency situations by phone to nursing supervisor or office
• Keeps an accurate time and mileage report
• Follows assignments and regulations
• Follows specific office orders for each patient
• Uses policy manual as guidelines
• Works within the organizational channel of authority and knows the area of responsibility of all other team members
• Wears appropriate clothing and ID badge when at work

Confirming on a weekly basis, the scheduling of visits with the Supervisor/Director, to coordinate necessary visits with other personnel.

Notifying the Agency of absences due to illness, emergency leave, normal vacation periods, or special professional meetings, which will affect agreed service with the Agency.