Direct Support Professional (55591)

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Direct Support Professional (DSP) provides direct care, support, and companionship to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), helping them live full, independent, and self-directed lives within their homes and communities. The DSP promotes dignity, choice, and person-centered practices in all aspects of care.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Personal Care & Daily Living Support

• Assist individuals with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and mobility
• Support meal planning, preparation, and feeding as needed, accommodating special diets
• Administer medications per training and physician orders, and maintain accurate medication administration records (MARs)
• Monitor and document health status, reporting changes to supervisors, nurses, or medical professionals

Community & Social Engagement

• Support individuals in community integration activities (shopping, recreation, appointments, employment, volunteering)
• Facilitate participation in social, educational, and recreational activities aligned with personal interests and goals
• Provide transportation to appointments, activities, and community outings

Person-Centered Planning & Skill Building

• Implement individual support plans (ISPs) and behavior support plans as directed
• Teach and reinforce skills that promote independence (budgeting, cooking, hygiene, communication, social skills)
• Support individuals in making informed choices and self-advocacy

Health & Safety

• Maintain a safe, clean, and healthy living environment
• Respond appropriately to emergencies, including administering first aid/CPR as needed
• Follow all infection control, universal precautions, and safety protocols
• Recognize and report signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation per mandated reporting requirements

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation (progress notes, incident reports, data collection)

• Adhere to HIPAA, agency policies, and state/federal regulations governing IDD services
• Attend required trainings (CPR/First Aid, medication administration, behavior support, abuse prevention, etc.)

Communication & Teamwork

• Communicate effectively with individuals served, families, guardians, and interdisciplinary team members
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and care plan reviews
• Collaborate with nurses, therapists, case managers, and other professionals