Caregiver in Tucson, Arizona at VEPL, LLC

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

The Certified Caregiver I/Primary Caregiver provides compassionate, high-quality personal care and support to residents in accordance with their individualized Service Plans and Arizona Department of Health Services (AZDHS) regulations. This position assists residents with daily living activities, promotes independence and dignity, and ensures a safe, comfortable, and caring environment. The Caregiver I/Primary Caregiver works under direct supervision and collaborates closely with other team members to maintain the highest standards of resident care and customer service.

Job Responsibilities and Performance Expectations:

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide supervisory, personal, and directed care services to residents.
• Assist residents with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including but not limited to, vitals and skin checks, grooming, mobility, toileting and continence care (including colostomy and catheter care), dining assistance (including meal prep or feeding tubes), documentation, and end-of-life comfort care in accordance with individual Service Plans.
• Deliver resident care that promotes resident dignity, independence, and choice.
• Perform light housekeeping tasks such as emptying trash, linen changes, laundry, and pet care.
• Review and ensure accurate EHR documentation of ADLs and care services daily.
• Communicate resident care concerns, pain, behaviors, and non-compliance to Community Leadership for follow-up.
• Support resident independence, spiritual well-being, engagement in activities, and maintain an organized, clean-living environment.
• Provide compassionate assistance to residents experiencing anxiety, agitation, or aggression through gentle redirection and positive reinforcement, report behavior concerns for appropriate medication administration.
• Support the Life Enhancement Director(s) by assisting residents during scheduled activities and programs, ensuring resident participation, safety, and engagement.
• Encourage and facilitate meaningful in-home engagement opportunities for residents, promoting social interaction, cognitive stimulation, and overall well-being.
• Provide after hours front office support as needed, including but not limited to:
  • Answering and directing incoming telephone calls in a professional manner.
  • Greeting and assisting visitors, guests and vendors.
  • Receiving and signing for deliveries as appropriate.
  • Monitoring and securing main entry and exit points before and after resident, visitor, or staff access to help maintain community safety and reduce the risk of resident elopement.
• Maintain a safe, secure environment free of hazards, especially for residents at risk of wandering or exit-seeking.
• Deliver excellent customer service to residents, families, and visitors; address requests or concerns promptly and professionally, following the chain of command when needed.
• Respond to emergencies and perform appropriate actions including first aid, CPR, AED use, and emergency response procedures.
• Ensure all caregiving duties are completed to established standards of care.
• Maintain resident confidentiality and privacy at all times.
• Provide direct supervision and guidance to Assistant Caregivers.
• Participate in required training, in-services, and staff meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Community Leadership.

Job Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications (Required)

• Demonstrate professionalism in attitude, appearance, and conduct; maintain a compassionate and respectful approach to resident care.
• Be self-motivated, detail-oriented, and organized; manage time effectively and perform well under pressure.
• Follow direction effectively and perform Caregiver I/Primary Caregiver duties.
• Minimum age of 18 (21 preferred).
• Documentation of a negative two-step TB test within 12 months of hire.
• Maintain a valid Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card (or obtain within 20 days of hire) and successfully complete all required background checks and drug screenings.
• Successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening and participate in random testing throughout employment.
• Maintain current CPR and First Aid certification through an accredited training program (renewed at least every two years).
• Hold a valid Arizona Driver’s License or State Identification Card.
• Pass a background check appropriate for employment in an assisted living environment.
• Demonstrate physical ability to see at close and long range, with depth perception, and to hear sounds at varying levels.
• Read, write, and speak English fluently; understand and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Read and interpret safety rules, procedure manuals, and resident care documentation accurately.
• Produce professional written communications and electronic correspondence in a timely manner.
• Communicate effectively with individuals and groups within and outside the organization.
• Exhibit basic computer literacy; experience with Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, and web-based applications preferred.

Minimal Education and Experience Requirements

(Successful completion of on-the-job training (OJT) checklist)

• Completion of a state-approved caregiver certification program covering supervisory, personal, and directed levels of care.
• Completion of an AZDHS-approved Memory Care Certification, including at least eight hours of initial memory care training within 30 days of hire, or proof of completion within the prior 12 months.
• Minimum of one year of caregiving experience, preferably with dementia and medication assistance.
• Three to six (3–6) months of PRN or part-time caregiving experience at Via Elegante preferred but not required.
• Maintain working knowledge of and comply with all Via Elegante policies, as well as ADHS, ADOSH, and OSHA regulations related to assisted living.

Minimal Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and/or carry up to 35 lbs. independently using assistive devices; over 50 lbs. requires two-person assistance.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, grasping, and pushing throughout the shift.
• Occasional squatting, kneeling, and movement involving spinal flexion or rotation.
• Ability to remain focused, alert, and engaged for the duration of assigned shifts.

Working Conditions

• Potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens, fumes, and caustic chemicals.
• Regular interaction with residents, families, and staff in various emotional and physical conditions.
• Possible exposure to upset or distressed residents and family members.
• Frequent interruptions and shifting priorities during work hours.
• Flexible scheduling required, including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Expected to maintain duties during emergencies (e.g., severe weather, evacuations, or post-disaster events).
• Leadership strives to provide consistent shifts and work locations; however, scheduling and assignments may change based on community needs with limited notice.

Due to the nature of employment within the medical field you may be subject to exposure to transferable illnesses (C. Diff., Covid-19, Seasonal Influenza) and testing may occur on an as-needed basis to reduce potential transmission. Additionally, personal protection equipment (PPE) may be required on an as-needed basis.