Kara Armell
Vinton,IA
Summary
Proven Direct Support Professional with a track record of enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities at The Mentor Network- REM. Skilled in medication administration and compassionate caregiving, demonstrated through improved client self-sufficiency and well-being. Excelled in creating safe, inclusive environments, showcasing exceptional decision-making and client support abilities.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Direct Support Professional
The Mentor Network- REM
09.2019 - Current
- Administered medication as directed by physician.
- Maintained clean, safe, and well-organized patient environment.
- Documented progress notes thoroughly to track client achievements, concerns, or changes in behavior patterns that may need attention from the interdisciplinary team.
- Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
- Assisted with crisis intervention to de-escalate challenging behavior and maintain peaceful encounters.
- Enhanced quality of life for individuals with disabilities by providing compassionate and consistent direct support.
- Supported clients with personal care tasks, ensuring their dignity and privacy were maintained at all times.
- Assisted clients in achieving personal goals through tailored care plans and daily skill-building activities.
- Participated in ongoing training opportunities to stay current on best practices in disability support services.
- Assisted disabled clients to support independence and well-being.
- Facilitated social outings and community integration activities, promoting inclusion and positive experiences for clients.
- Monitored clients to assess and report physical and behavioral changes to supervisors.
- Maintained a safe and inclusive environment by addressing behavioral challenges with patience and understanding.
- Provided ongoing communication between clients, families, and other service providers to enhance overall care coordination efforts.
- Encouraged and supported clients to participate in recreational and leisure activities to promote social interactions and reduce loneliness.
- Addressed emergency situations calmly and effectively, prioritizing the safety of both clients and staff members involved.
- Promoted physical well-being by supporting clients in engaging in regular exercise routines or therapeutic activities suited to their abilities.
- Transported clients to medical and dental appointments to provide support.
- Monitored progress and documented patient health status changes to keep care team updated.
- Improved client self-sufficiency through teaching essential skills such as meal preparation, housekeeping, and financial management.
- Supervised daily activities and provided assistance to staff.
- Researched community resources and services to provide accessibility and assistance to clients.
- Assisted with daily living activities, running errands, and household chores.
- Cooked meals and assisted patients with eating tasks to support healthy nutrition.
- Assisted patients with bathing, grooming, dressing, and oral hygiene care both in private residences and facilities.
- Supported daily hygiene needs of patients by assisting with bathing, dressing, dental care and personal grooming.
- Transported clients to and from medical appointments with safety and efficiency.
- Entrusted to handle confidential and sensitive situations in professional matter.
- Built and maintained rapport with clients and family members to facilitate trusting caregiver relationship.
- Laundered items, changed sheets and made bed to keep patients' bedroom clean.
- Recorded patients' pulse, blood pressure and respirations (TPRs) to assess and document important health information.
- Guided patients to restroom to support bladder and bowel relief requirements.
- Implemented physical therapy to support patient improvement in muscle tone, range of motion and injury recovery.
Teacher's Assistant
Vinton Shellsburg High School
08.2013 - 03.2019
- Kept classrooms clean, neat, and properly sanitized for student health and classroom efficiency.
- Oversaw students in classroom and common areas to monitor, enforce rules, and support lead teacher.
- Supported student learning objectives through personalized and small group assistance.
- Worked with lead teacher to monitor class schedule and take attendance.
Education
High School Diploma -
Harlan Community Schools
2102 Durant St Harlan IA 05.1992
Skills
- First aid and safety
- Behavior redirection
- Client Support
- Compassionate Caregiving
- Medication Administration
- Client documentation
- Housekeeping tasks
- Health and safety requirements
- Direct Patient Care
- Transportation
- Disability Awareness
- Decision-making support
Timeline
Direct Support Professional
The Mentor Network- REM
09.2019 - Current
Teacher's Assistant
Vinton Shellsburg High School
08.2013 - 03.2019
High School Diploma -
Harlan Community Schools
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