• Respect and Dignity: Direct Care Workers must treat all clients with respect, maintain their dignity, and support their autonomy.
   
• Cultural Sensitivity: Care must be provided with an understanding of the client’s background, culture, language, and preferences.
   
• Non-Discrimination: Direct Care Workers must offer services without bias regarding race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or disability.

• Confidentiality: Direct Care Workers must protect clients' personal and medical information under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and state privacy laws.
  
   
• Information Sharing: Information should only be shared with authorized personnel or family members directly involved in the client’s care and should be documented as required.

• Accurate Documentn: Direct Care Workers are required to keep records atioof services provided whenever necessary, including tasks performed, and observations of any changes in the client’s condition.
   
• Incident Reporting: Any incidents, accidents, or health-related concerns must be reported to supervisors immediately and documented according to program guidelines.
  
   
• Timely Entry of Clock-In/Clock-Out Times: Direct Care Workers must accurately record and submit Clock-In/Clock-Out times as required by PA CHC EVV registration guidelines.

• Infection Control and Hygiene: Direct Care Workers must follow protocols for hand hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE) use, and other infection control measures to reduce risks to clients and themselves.
   
• Emergency Preparedness: Familiarity with emergency procedures, such as first aid and CPR, is often required. Direct Care Workers must know how to respond to emergencies, call for help when needed, and inform supervisors of serious incidents.
   
• Risk Assessment: Regularly assess the home environment for safety hazards (e.g., fall risks) and take corrective actions to secure the safety of both the client and the worker.

• Professional Boundaries: Direct Care Workers should maintain clear, professional boundaries with clients and avoid any personal, financial, or business relationships outside their caregiving role.
  
   
• Client Choice and Empowerment: It is essential to honor clients' preferences in decisions about their care and daily activities. Direct Care Workers should encourage clients to exercise choice and participate in their care planning.
  
   
• Avoidance of Exploitation: Direct Care Workers  must not use their position for personal gain and must report any suspected exploitation of clients to the appropriate authorities.

• Abuse and Neglect Recognition: Direct Care Workers  are trained to recognize signs of potential abuse, neglect, or exploitation, including physical, emotional, or financial harm.
  
   
• Mandated Reporting Obligations: Under Pennsylvania law, Direct Care Workers are mandated reporters who must report any suspected abuse or neglect to supervisors and relevant state authorities, such as the Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL) or Adult Protective Services.

PA Office of Long-Term Living Participant Helpline:

                              1-800-757-5042

• Skill Development: Direct Care Workers are often required to participate in ongoing training sessions to improve their caregiving skills, understand regulatory changes, and stay updated on best practices.
  
   
• Annual Compliance Training: To continue providing high-quality care under the CHC HCBS program, Direct Care Workers may need to complete annual training modules on topics such as infection control, client rights, safety protocols, state policies, and new technologies or procedures introduced within the CHC HCBS framework.

• Scope of Practice: Direct Care Workers must work within the limitations of their role. Tasks requiring licensed medical knowledge are typically restricted to licensed professionals.
  
   
• Referral to Supervisors for Complex Care Needs : When clients require skilled care outside the Direct Care Worker's scope, the Direct Care Worker should inform their supervisor or care manager immediately.