32 Hours/week

New Hire Eligible Bonus Position- $5K

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position is responsible for the provision of necessary care to patients as designated by a written care plan which is developed by the RN Case Manager. This position is responsible for the provision of necessary care to patients as designated by a written care plan which is developed by the RN Case Manager. The Nurse Aide performs activities which assist the patient in meeting basic human needs and activities of daily living under the direction of the RN. This position is Certified by the State of CT and employee can be trained and scheduled to provide hospice care in skilled nursing facilities.

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:

High school diploma or GED is required. Certificate to practice as a Home Health Aide in the State of Connecticut or CNA with certification with the Connecticut State Nurse Aide Registry. Is enrolled in or has completed a Basic Approved Training Program as defined by Licensure Regulations or evidence of meeting the exemption criteria as defined by the Licensure Regulations.

EXPERIENCE:

Previous experience as CNA/HCA preferred.

COMPETENCIES:

Certificate to practice as a Home Health Aide in the State of Connecticut. Ability to read, write and speak English.  Ability to comprehend written and oral instructions in English.  Ability to drive a car, possession of a current driver’s license, and access to a car.  Must show proof of automobile insurance with a minimum liability coverage of $20,000/$40,000. Flexibility; must be punctual and dependable.  Ability to get along with people, a sympathetic attitude and ability to adjust to varying complex home situations; ability to motivate; ability to work well with other members of the Home Care Team.  Desire and motivation to grow in knowledge and to attend the required 12 hours of in-service education per calendar year.  Must have excellent communication skills and the ability to follow directions, both written and verbal, to adhere to Agency Personnel Policies and Dress Code, and to maintain confidentiality.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

Disclaimer: Job descriptions are not intended, nor should they be construed to be, exhaustive lists of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with the job.  They are intended to be accurate reflections of the principal duties and responsibilities of this position.  These responsibilities and competencies listed below may change from time to time.  Eastern Connecticut Health Network reserves the right to change or assign other duties and responsibilities to this position.

Assisting the patient with personal care and ADLs to include bathing, oral hygiene, toileting, feeding, dressing, exercises, ambulation transfers, and medications that are ordinarily self-administered. Providing normal household services essential to patient care at home, meal preparation, laundry, and light housekeeping duties. Reports to RN Case Manager or Registered Nurse (RN) designee any recognized changes in patient’s condition. May provide hospice care in Skilled Nursing Facilities per Plan of Care. Communicates appropriately with patients and families.  Communicates at patient’s level of understanding.  Adheres to confidentiality policy regarding patient scheduling, work assignments, agency-related work issues, personal issues, and avoids controversial topics. Meets annual in-service requirements of 12 hours 6 of which must be hospice related.  Participates in other agency activities such as small group, focus groups, committees, and preceptorships.  Adheres to Agency Corporate Compliance Plan and HIPAA Privacy Plan  as per written agreement. Performs other duties as necessary to support Agency programs as assigned by the Home Health Aide Supervisor.

 
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA:

The Home Health Aide shall possess the following skills and attributes and be responsible for the following duties: Successfully completes competency evaluation in accordance with the State of Connecticut and Federal regulations on hire and annually. Demonstrates safety and competence in meeting personal care needs of the patients assigned, in accordance with  tasks assigned, performs household duties as directed and strives to maximize patient’s safety in their environment. Position may be used to provide care for hospice patients in Skilled facilities: must show high levels of collaboration and willingness to work effectively with Skilled facility staff. Assures the patient’s rights are honored during all aspects of care and service, including the need to respect the patient, his/her right to privacy, and his/her property. Demonstrates sound judgment in recognizing and communicating changes in the patient’s condition, including skin changes, to the RN Case Manager/designee or therapist and or patient/family concerns. Identifies areas for improvement within Agency processes as well as personal/para-professional learning needs.   Regularly attends in-services or outside seminars to enhance practice and knowledge. Active participant when attending in-services or team conferences. Provides a positive care experience for patients assigned.  Accepts and respects the patient and their family/caregiver’s individuality, customs and lifestyles. Values every patient by actively listening and remaining focused on their needs.

Accountability/Responsibility

Can be relied upon to meet requirements of job description, with a minimum of supervision. Communicates schedule changes to manager or appropriate person and need for assistance.  Is prompt and attends meetings and programs as expected.

Organization/Productivity

Demonstrates an ability to perform job responsibilities in an organized, efficient manner. Prioritizes needs and meets productivity standards for the department.

Adaptability

Demonstrates an ability to understand and carry out instructions. Adapts to changing conditions during the work day and in the industry. Remains focused and responds appropriately when under pressure.

Documentation

Ability to complete and submit job related/required reports in an accurate, clear, concise and timely manner, assuring that content meets any federal, state, local and Agency requirements.

Professional Integrity

Demonstrates integrity and sound decision making in all issues related to job.  Adheres to standard of confidentiality, discussing patient and Agency information only with appropriate personnel in the proper setting.  Promotes a positive image of the Agency at all times.

Attendance

Demonstrates faithfulness in coming to work in accordance with assigned work schedule. Adheres to the Agency’s Attendance Policy. 

Teamwork/Commitment

Functions with an understanding of individual performance and its impact on co-workers.  Works cooperatively and assists department and Agency co-workers as needed. Volunteers for projects/committees to achieve department and/or Agency goals.

Interpersonal Skills/Communication

Demonstrates an ability to effectively express self, orally or written.  Shows respect and courtesy in interactions. Seeks clarification from appropriate source if communication is not clearly understood.  Displays positive attitude and is resolution oriented.

Personal Appearance

Personal appearance is neat, clean and professionally appropriate.  Adheres to Human Resources Dress and Footwear Policy.