Job Description
Position Overview
The Personal Support Worker (PSW) reports to the Unit Supervisor and provides personal care, reports changes in resident status, and documents where applicable. They enhance restorative care by promoting independence in activities of daily living and improve the therapeutic effects of bathing, creating an environment that meets residents' needs and enhances their quality of life. The PSW works closely with the Nursing Restorative Therapist.
Essential Duties
- Assist residents with personal care and activities of daily living according to their care plans.
- Guide residents in their activities of daily living, promoting independence, choice, and self-determination.
- Monitor residents' wellbeing and report any changes to registered staff.
- Accurately document care provided on each shift, adhering to policies and procedures.
- Follow all home policies, including the Code of Conduct.
- Maintain professional communication with residents, families, and coworkers.
- Promote the home's Vision, Mission, Values, and Residents Bill of Rights.
- Ensure health and safety of residents, families, and staff.
- Assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) as per care plans.
- Monitor resident safety and implement precautionary measures as outlined in care plans.
- Document care activities thoroughly and accurately in electronic health records.
- Participate in resident care conferences and team meetings to assist in care plan development.
- Maintain a positive and adaptable attitude.
- Ensure personal care items are clean, labeled, and accessible.
- Use Gentle Persuasive Approach (GPA) when managing residents with expressive behaviors.
- Follow safe transfer practices and use of mechanical lifts according to policies.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and secure environment during care provision.
- Assist with meal service and feeding as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- PSW Certification from a program of at least 600 hours, including practical experience.
- The program must meet Ministry of Colleges or Universities requirements for Ontario postsecondary institutions or district school boards.
- An RN or RPN with adequate skills and knowledge, as deemed by the Director of Wellness.
- Students enrolled in RN or RPN programs with sufficient skills, as deemed by the Director of Nursing.
- Experience with person-centered care philosophies.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- Ability to turn tasks into positive social interactions, showing empathy and focus on residents' feelings.
- Legal compliance regarding residents' rights and risk mitigation.
- Current Vulnerable Sector Check (within six months) or willingness to obtain one.
- Documentation of recent TB testing or chest X-ray as per health regulations.
- Two supervisory references.
Work Environment
Committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and accessible work environment, complying with industry standards, legislative requirements, and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005.
Physical Demands
A physical demands analysis is required to assess medical ability, strength, and mobility to perform job tasks safely, as detailed in the Health and Safety Manual.