What does a Personal Support Worker do?
A Personal Support Worker assists individuals that are elderly, have a disability, or recovering from an illness or operation. Personal Support Workers help with all aspects of daily life including housekeeping and making meals. In some cases, a Personal Support Worker may also help their patient eat their food. An important responsibility of Personal Support Workers is helping their client maintain their hygiene. Personal Support Workers may also help to administer a daily medication schedule.
Personal Support Worker skills and qualifications
A successful Personal Support Worker candidate possesses various prerequisite skills and qualifications for the duties of this job. Some of these may include:
- Strong organizational skills while being able to maintain high standards under pressure
- Ability to adapt to change and remain flexible
- Accustomed to working with and understanding the needs of various types of patients
- Excellent communication skills both oral and written
- Ability to work well as an independent collaborator and as a team
- Ability to comply with standard policies and procedures to ensure a safe work environment
- Ability to use computer programs to keep accurate records and documentation
- Excellent listening and interpersonal skills
Personal Support Worker experience requirements
When reviewing resumes for a Personal Support Worker, it is not always necessary to look for someone with prior experience. However, if the applicant is working with a patient with a particular illness or need, then prior experience with caring for patients with that particular illness may be required.
Personal Support Worker education and training requirements
When reviewing resumes for a Personal Support Worker, employers often look for someone who has at least a high school diploma. A Personal Support Worker who has obtained a Personal Support Worker certificate from an accredited college should be preferred, although this is not always required. Some applicants will also have a certificate that specializes in the care of the elderly, people with disabilities, or someone recovering from surgery.
Personal Support Worker salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, average pay for a Personal Support Worker in Canada is $20.04 per hour. Wages can vary depending on many factors including experience, location, or the company that is hiring.
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