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Personal Care Assistant
Job Description
This personal care assistant job description clearly outlines the responsibilities and duties associated with the caregiver role. Also referred to as home health aides, demand for personal care assistants grew over 25% over the last 12 months and is likely to increase further in the future as the need for in-home care grows.
Personal care assistants may be employed in an individual's home, in a residential care facility, retirement home or in the community.
Duties and responsibilities will vary depending on the employment setting of the personal care assistant. Select those duties and job requirements that apply to your caregiver position.
Personal Care Assistant Job Description
General Purpose
To
provide personal care and support to clients who are in need of assistance by helping with daily tasks and routines and basic medical and healthcare activities.
Main Job Duties and Responsibilities
- observe and monitor clients for any change in condition and report to the relevant authority
- ensure a safe environment by following standard health and safety procedures and adhering to professional standards
- maintain a tidy and hygienic environment
- assist with daily personal hygiene activities including bathing, toileting , oral hygiene, dressing and general grooming
- perform basic healthcare and medical services including checking vital signs and administering prescribed medication
- assist with prescribed therapies and exercises
- assist with light housekeeping duties including bed making, laundry and cleaning
- assist with shopping for food and household requirements
- assist with preparing and serving meals in line with prescribed dietary and nutritional requirements
- assist with eating as necessary
- engage clients in suitable recreational and social activities such as playing games and taking walks
- assist clients with household finances, bills and payments
- assist with running general errands
- transport and accompany client to healthcare appointments
- provide transportation assistance to and from activities
- provide ambulation and mobility assistance
- maintain client care records and document personal care and health activities
- provide companionship and basic emotional support
- maintain the self respect and dignity of each client
Education, Qualifications and Experience
- high school diploma or GED
- reliable transport and valid driver's license
- pass relevant background checks
- basic healthcare knowledge
- CPR certification
- state-mandated certification
- CNA license may be preferred
Key Competencies and Skills
- patience
- compassion and empathy
- able to handle stress
- strong communication skills including active listening and sensitivity to others
- able to work independently
- well organized
- dependable and reliable
- problem-solving skills
- close attention to detail
- integrity
Physical Demands
Sufficient physical stamina to perform physical activities including:
- lifting and carrying
- stooping and kneeling
- pushing and pulling
- standing for extended periods
Background Checks for Personal Care Assistants
The high level of trust involved in the caregiver role means that various background checks are conducted prior to employment.
Find out more about employment background checks
References are also an important part of the hiring process.
Personal Care Assistant Job Interviews
Employers will often ask standard interview questions including
Behavioral interview questions may be asked to explore the desired behaviors and competencies for a caregiver position.
Behavioral Interview Question Database