Personal Care Duties

Bathing and Grooming:

• Assist clients with bathing, showering, and personal hygiene.
• Help with grooming tasks such as brushing hair, shaving, and nail care.

Dressing:

• Help clients select appropriate clothing and assist with dressing and undressing.

Toileting and Continence Care:

• Assist with toileting needs, including the use of bedpans, commodes, or toilet facilities.
• Provide support for clients with incontinence, including changing adult diapers and performing perineal care.

Mobility Assistance:

• Help clients move around their home, including transfers from bed to chair, wheelchair to toilet, etc.
• Assist with exercises and mobility routines prescribed by a physical therapist.

Feeding and Nutrition:

• Assist clients with eating meals and ensuring they maintain a nutritious diet.
• Prepare meals according to dietary requirements and preferences.

Skin Care:

• Apply prescribed lotions or ointments and monitor skin condition to prevent issues like pressure sores.

Health Maintenance Duties

Medication Assistance:

• Remind clients to take their medications as prescribed.
• Assist with organizing medications and ensuring they are taken on time.

Vital Signs Monitoring:

• Measure and record vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and respiration rate.

Basic Wound Care:

• Assist with cleaning and dressing minor wounds as directed by a healthcare professional.

Health Monitoring:

• Observe and report changes in the client’s condition to a supervising nurse or healthcare professional.

Transportation:

• Assist with arranging and providing transportation to medical appointments or other necessary outings.

Household Assistance

Light Housekeeping:

• Perform light housekeeping tasks such as dusting, vacuuming, and laundry.
• Maintain a clean and safe living environment for the client.

Shopping and Errands:

• Assist with grocery shopping and running errands.

Meal Preparation:

• Plan and prepare meals according to the client's dietary needs and preferences.

Emotional Support and Companionship

Companionship:

• Provide companionship and engage in activities that promote mental and emotional well-being.
• Offer emotional support and encouragement.

Communication:

• Maintain clear and open communication with the client, family members, and healthcare team.
• Document and report any changes in the client's condition or needs.

Additional Responsibilities

Training and Compliance:

• Attend required training sessions and maintain certifications.
• Adhere to all regulations and guidelines for providing IHSS in Colorado.

Emergency Response:

• Be prepared to respond to emergencies and provide first aid or CPR if needed.

These duties ensure that clients receive comprehensive care tailored to their individual needs, promoting their independence and quality of life in the home setting.