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What does a Direct Care Staff do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A Direct Care Staff is responsible for providing direct care and support to clients in a variety of settings. They may work in hospitals, nursing homes, group homes, or other residential facilities. Direct care staff are typically responsible for providing personal care, helping with activities of daily living, and assisting with medical needs.

Direct Care Staff job duties include:

  • Providing personal care and support to clients
  • Assisting with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and eating
  • Helping clients with mobility needs
  • Transporting clients to appointments or on outings
  • Providing companionship and emotional support
  • Monitoring client health and well-being
  • Reporting changes in client condition to supervisor
  • Documenting care provided in client records
  • Adhering to infection control and safety procedures
  • Maintaining a clean and safe environment

Direct Care Staff Job Requirements

A Direct Care Staff is responsible for providing direct care to patients in a health care setting. They may also be responsible for providing indirect care, such as laundry and housekeeping services. A Direct Care Staff must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some positions may require certification, such as CPR or First Aid. Experience is not required, but may be helpful.

Direct Care Staff Skills

  • Patience
  • Compassion
  • Empathy
  • Listening skills
  • Communication skills
  • Observational skills
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Flexibility
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Organizational skills
  • Multi-tasking

Related: Top Direct Care Staff Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Direct Care Staff

There are many ways to become a Direct Care Staff. One way is to get a job at a group home or other residential facility that provides care for people with developmental disabilities. Another way is to become a certified nurse assistant (CNA). CNAs typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, or other long-term care facilities. Some states also have certification programs for direct support professionals (DSPs). DSPs work in a variety of settings, including group homes, day programs, and in-home support services.

To become a CNA, you will need to complete a training program that is approved by your state's Department of Health. The training program will teach you how to provide basic care for patients, including bathing, dressing, and feeding. You will also learn how to take vital signs and provide first aid. Once you have completed the training program, you will need to pass a state-approved exam before you can be certified.

To become a DSP, you will need to complete a training program that is approved by your state's Department of Health and Human Services. The training program will teach you how to provide support and assistance to people with developmental disabilities. You will also learn how to communicate effectively with people who have disabilities and their families. Once you have completed the training program, you will need to pass a state-approved exam before you can be certified.

Related: Direct Care Staff Resume Example

Related: Direct Care Staff Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

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Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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