Requisition Details:
Employment Status: Regular, Full-time (1.0 FTE)
Program Name: Assisted Living
Number of Hours Bi-Weekly: 75
Work Schedule: Evenings
On Call: Yes
Existing Vacancy: Yes - we're currently hiring candidates for an existing vacancy in this position.
Job Summary:
The Personal Support Worker provides personal support and homemaking services to clients and families within the framework of VON policies, procedures, standards. The PSW collaborates with members of the health care team in meeting the needs of clients to attain an optimal level of independence and well-being.
This position is eligible for the $3.18 per hour wage enhancement from the Ontario Government for all hours spent directly caring for clients.
Key Responsibilities:
- Observes and evaluates the client’s or family's home, personal situation and care plan to determine if any need for change is required and whether the client’s and family’s needs have been met. Advises supervisor accordingly.
- Contributes to the development of the personal support care plan under the direction of the Personal Support Program Manager. The written Care Plan is completed with information collected from the funder, the Manager, and the client or family.
- Implements changes to the care plan under the guidance of the Manager for safety, liability, and financial reasons.
- Reports verbally to the immediate supervisor or Personal Support Program Manager any changes in the client’s or family's personal support needs or home situation necessitating a change in the care plan.
- Performs personal support tasks reflecting the needs of the client and family, such as light cleaning, meal preparation, clothing care, shopping, and household safety monitoring.
- Provides personal care as directed, including assistance with walking, stairs, bed transfers, eating, dressing, and hygiene.
- Provides bedside care under the direction of a nurse, as required.
- Provides respite care to clients as needed.
- Supports clients’ families by providing child care to allow for family relief.
- Organizes daily activities and sets priorities under the guidance of the Program Manager or supervisor.
- Completes daily call checks and other forms to ensure effective operation of the service.
- Assesses communication and relational abilities of the client.
- Communicates with the health team regarding client and family needs and reports changes or concerns.
- Functions in compliance with Occupational Health and Safety legislation, regulations, and VON policies.
- Adheres to risk management policies to promote client safety.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
External and Internal Relationships:
- Engages with the supervisor or Program Manager for updates and changes to client plans.
Education, Designations and Experience:
- High school diploma; secondary education preferred.
- CCA Certification required in Nova Scotia.
- Certificate in Home Support Worker (Level I, II, III), Personal Support Worker program, or Health Care Aide.
- Current Standard First Aid or CPR Level C Certificate, if applicable.
- Household management experience and experience working with elderly, ill individuals, or children.
Skill Requirements:
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Effective communication with clients and families demonstrating respect, empathy, and understanding.
- Good assessment skills.
- Knowledge of community resources.
- Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams.
- Ability to follow directions and adapt to different environments.
- Adherence to confidentiality standards.
Other Requirements:
- Access to a personal vehicle, with a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance.
- Satisfactory Criminal Records Check; Vulnerable Sector Search and/or Child Abuse Registry Check may be required.
- Availability for flexible hours.
- Ability to wear PPE.
Working conditions include physical activities like lifting, carrying, bending, reaching, and walking, with emphasis on body mechanics.