Certified Nursing Assistant Direct Support Pr

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – Direct Support Professional (DSP)

Position Summary

The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – Direct Support Professional provides hands-on clinical and personal care to adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities in residential and community settings. This position primarily functions in a CNA capacity while integrating direct support services to promote independence, dignity, health, and safety. The employee is responsible for delivering skilled personal care, monitoring health conditions, and supporting individuals in achieving meaningful life goals within their homes and communities. An active Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification is required and must be maintained throughout employment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on nursing assistant care, including assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as toileting, bathing, showering, grooming, dressing, feeding, mobility assistance, and safe transfers.
• Monitor health status, observe and report changes in condition, and communicate effectively with supervisors and healthcare professionals.
• Administer medications and perform basic wound care in accordance with training, certification, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain infection-control standards and ensure a clean, safe, and healthy environment free of potential hazards.
• Assist individuals with positioning, weight-bearing support, and mobility needs to ensure safety and comfort.
• Support individuals in managing medical appointments, including scheduling, transportation, follow-up care, and adherence to aftercare instructions.
• Prepare meals in accordance with prescribed dietary needs and assist with feeding when necessary.
• Document health-related observations, care provided, medication administration, and daily summaries in compliance with MAS policy and ODP standards.

In addition to CNA responsibilities, this role includes direct support functions that promote independence and quality of life:

• Assist individuals in developing and maintaining life skills such as cooking, housekeeping, budgeting, and personal hygiene.
• Encourage community integration and participation in social and recreational activities aligned with individual interests.

• Support individuals in achieving personal goals through prompting, education, and positive role modeling.
• Provide transportation to medical appointments, community activities, and essential errands.
• Complete required documentation related to goals, behavioral data, and daily activities.
• Participate in required meetings, team discussions, and ongoing training.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Strong clinical observation skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to provide personal care with professionalism, dignity, and respect.
• Knowledge of basic nursing assistant procedures and safety protocols.
• Compassion, patience, and emotional regulation when supporting individuals with complex needs.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to use electronic documentation systems and basic computer programs.

Education, Certification, and Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Active Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification required.
• CPR certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Successful completion of background checks per state regulations.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to transport individuals in personal or agency vehicles.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including required weekends and holiday rotations as needed.

Physical Demands

• All shifts are awake shifts.
• Ability to stand, bend, squat, pivot, climb stairs, and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and support individuals and objects weighing 30 pounds.
• Ability to assist with transfers and mobility support.
• Ability to tolerate exposure to cleaning supplies and medical environments.

Work Environment

Work is performed in residential homes, community settings, and medical facilities. Exposure to germs and healthcare environments may occur. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Reporting Structure

Reports to: Program Director and Assistant Director