Direct Care Aide (DCA)

A direct-care worker is a non-licensed member of the residential services team who assists the client with the tasks of daily living as outlined in a written care plan that is established by a Supervisor and is kept in the client’s home. The Administrator and RN Supervisor supervise direct care aides.

Qualifications:

1. A direct-care worker must have a satisfactory work record, with experience as a direct care aide preferred. The facility must be able to verify two work or personal references, and direct care aide must complete the facility’s employment process.
2. Must be at least 18 years of age.
3. High School diploma or equivalent preferred but not required.
4. Must be physically able to perform the duties of the position.
5. Must exhibit mature, responsible behavior, and understand the need for patient confidentiality.
6. Must be able to communicate with client and carry out instructions.
7. Must be able to read, write, understand and speak English and/or other languages native to facility clients.
8. Must be able to follow direction and accurately report to the Administrator any change in client’s condition.
9. Must maintain current credentials, including CPR, First Aide, TB Test, Physical and Criminal justice background check clearance. Must attend ongoing training when offered.
10. Must have available reliable transportation to and from assignments.

Duties

The duties of a direct-care worker may include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Planning and preparing meals and snacks according to specific dietary requirements of the client.
2. Wash dishes and clean kitchen.
3. Maintaining a safe, clean and healthy environment through light housekeeping including changing bed linens, dusting and vacuuming, cleaning bathroom, and doing laundry.
4. Providing companionship and stimulation for the client including reading, walks, etc.; accompanying the client to doctors or other appointments.
5. Grocery shopping or other errands when needed.
6. Performing other housekeeping tasks as indicated in the care plan.
7. Participating in in-service education programs.

Direct-care workers may not

1. Administer or pour medication as mandated by law.

Certified Medication Aide (CMA)

Education:

1. Graduate of an accredited high school or GED equivalent
2. Must be proficient in written and spoken English
3. Must have completed a state approved CMA training program

Qualifications

1. Current, unrestricted CMA/CNA license, verifiable by the NM Board of Nursing.
2. Current annual CPR/BLS certification

Requirements:

1. Two verifiable references to include one (1) character reference and one professional reference.
2. Successful completed criminal background check
3. Annual PPD or Chest X-ray where applicable
4. Physical- within the past year of filing for contractor application
5. Hepatitis B vaccine proof or declination form. The facility will provide the means to obtain the Hep B vaccination if elected
6. Skills evaluation during application process and annually thereafter.
7. Participation in in-service training as recommended by the administrator
8. Evaluation and training by the RN designee

Duties:

1. Administration of Medication
2. Documentation of Medication administration
3. Reports given to RN Supervisor or physician where indicated
4. Ensure patients’ rights are upheld in the home
5. Follows the direction of the RN
6. Maintain a safe and clean patient care area.
7. Assist with ADLs
8. Assist client with personal hygiene
9. Perform other duties as listed in the CNA job description where appropriate
10. Must maintain compliance with state/federal requirements regarding blood borne pathogens, infection control, and fire safety
11. Must be able to lift over 25 lbs.

Report to: RN Supervisor