Personal Support Worker

**Title**: Personal Support Worker (PSW)
**Reports to**: Manager of Hospice Care

Barrie Family Hospice of Elgin is redefining end-of-life care for individuals and families in Elgin County. Our ‘cottage-like’ facility will have the honour of caring for individuals and their families by providing expert care at end-of-life.

Barrie Family Hospice of Elgin will provide wrap-around care to individuals by addressing pain & and symptoms, while also supporting the psycho-social, spiritual and practical needs of the individual. At Hospice, we are committed to supporting exceptional care at the end of life.

Join Us. Come be a part of the exciting journey.

**Position Summary**:
As a valued member of a compassionate and skilled multi-disciplinary team, the Personal Support Worker (PSW) provides holistic, person-centred care to individuals of Barrie Family Hospice of Elgin, supporting them and their families through providing expert end-of-life care. The PSW is responsible for providing assistance with personal care, comfort measures and all activities of daily living. The PSW will foster an environment that is safe and home-like, working in accordance with all the Policies and Procedures of the Hospice and the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations.

**Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to**:

- Providing direct, individualized care to residents in alignment with care plans.
- Assisting or providing hygiene through bathing, dressing, toileting, mobility, transfers, and feeding.
- Assisting with oral hygiene by cleaning dentures, assisting with brushing teeth and/or gums and providing additional mouth care as necessary.
- Assisting with hair washing as required.
- Providing peri-care in accordance with incontinence needs of the resident.
- Assisting with fingernail and toenail care of the non-diabetic resident.
- Providing basic colostomy care.
- Emptying catheter drainage bags and changing leg catheter bag and bedside drainage bag as per Hospice policy.
- Supporting a safe and home-like environment, attending to individuals’ comfort and preferences.
- Monitoring resident needs and safety within the PSW scope of practice and escalating concerns to registered staff.
- Documenting accurately and promptly using the Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system.
- Adhering to individualized care plans and Hospice protocols.
- Assisting with symptom management and comfort care measures as directed by clinical staff.
- When working with volunteers, ensure their comfort level at all times.
- Participating in resident-centred team meetings and continuous care planning.
- Providing/assisting with laundry, light housekeeping and infection prevention and control tasks.
- Supporting meal service and assisting residents with meals as needed.
- Respecting and upholding resident rights, cultural preferences, and spiritual beliefs.
- Providing care of the body after death.
- Providing respectful support to grieving family members and caregivers.
- Contributing to a team culture of safety, dignity, and excellence in end-of-life care.

PSWS are expected to work under the direction of the Registered Nurse, maintain professional and ethical conduct, and contribute to a positive environment.

**Qualifications & Experience**:

- Graduate of a certified Personal Support Worker program (Ontario-recognized).
- Completion of Food Handler Certificate (preferred).
- Minimum three (3) years of recent experience as a PSW.
- Strong dedication to the Noble Purpose of Barrie Family Hospice of Elgin and commitment to and experience in compassionate end-of-life care.
- Completion of the Fundamentals of Hospice Palliative Care Certificate (or willingness to complete within 12 months of hire).
- Commitment to pursuing continuing education in end-of-life, grief, and bereavement care.
- Knowledge of relevant Ontario health and safety legislation, infection prevention and control practices, and ethical principles in care.
- Excellent communication, active listening, and interpersonal skills; sensitivity in working with residents and grieving families.
- Ability to provide care to individuals with complex needs, including advanced illness and dementia.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of an interprofessional team.
- Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced, emotionally intense environment.
- Physical ability to perform all aspects of the role, including lifting/mobility assistance (up to 60 pounds).
- Experience with housekeeping and infection control practices in a care environment.
- Experience with Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems for documentation.
- Willingness and availability to work a variety of shifts, including 12-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays, based on hospice needs.

**Additional Requirements**
- Proof of vaccination will be required.
- Satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Records Check
- Be available for 12-hour shifts, with a rotating schedule, including weekends.

**Compensatio