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Title: Direct Care Workers
Min. Initial Training Hours: Not Specified
Ongoing Training Hours: Not Specified
State-Specific Curriculum Criteria: Yes
Personal assistance services agencies (PSAs) workers are collectively called Direct Care Workers (DCWs). Direct care workers employed by licensed home care agencies must meet strict qualifications and acquire essential skills mandated by the state to ensure high-quality care delivery. Here’s what it involves:
Note: We are committed to helping you stay informed and confident in your compliance efforts with the most accurate, up-to-date guidance we can provide. Our guides and resources are designed to support your training and compliance work, though state regulations may vary and change frequently. Please consult your state’s licensing or regulatory body for official guidance, publications, or requirements.
With Delaware’s older adult population (60 and older) expected to surpass 24% by 2030, the need for trained caregivers is growing. However, recruiting and retaining an adequate caregiving workforce proves challenging, partly due to rigorous state regulations and a disjointed training system. Here’s a brief overview to guide you through navigating these regulations effectively and equip you with the best training solution:
Agency Responsibilities
It’s the responsibility of personal assistance services agencies to ensure caregivers are proficient and equipped to provide quality care. By understanding and meeting these requirements, caregivers can better serve Delaware’s aging population.
Competency Evaluation
Before providing care, all caregivers must pass a competency test and undergo annual evaluations to ensure safe and effective care.
Dementia Training
Caregivers serving individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia must receive annual dementia-specific training. This includes communication skills, understanding psychological and physical needs, and implementing safety measures.
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In Delaware, while specific training hours for Direct Care Workers (DCWs) are not mandated, they must complete an orientation program provided by the agency before delivering services to consumers. Additionally, DCWs must pass a competency test annually and receive dementia-specific training if serving individuals with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia.
The orientation program covers various essential topics including and not limited to philosophy of consumer care, description of consumer population and served geographic location, consumer rights, agency personnel and administrative policies, principles of good nutrition, growth, development, and aging processes, and infection control.
The personal assistance services agency is responsible for ensuring that direct care workers are proficient in providing safe, effective, and efficient care.
Yes, agencies serving individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia must provide annual dementia-specific training covering communication, psychological, social, and safety needs.
Direct care workers who have completed a department-approved administration of medications training program and meet other requirements specified in regulations may administer medication to consumers.
Absolutely! Learn2Care's platform offers flexible, mobile-friendly online courses. Download lessons for offline access, learn from any device and maximize your learning even with busy schedules.
Here are the benefits of training certification for agencies and caregivers:
Overall, certification signifies a dedication to professionalism and high-quality care, enhancing your client's trust in your abilities.
