Direct care workers are care giving specialists. They provide assistance to patients who suffer from certain disability or illnesses. Direct care specialists job is considered as a noble cause as it includes serving other people. The care givers play a critical role in serving the society. Hence, those who work as direct care workers enjoy a respectable position in society. If you too possess a knack of taking care of patients selflessly then pursuing a career in direct care work will be a suitable option for you.
Nature of Work
Direct care work includes giving care and providing mental and physical support to patients. It is different from typical office work that will include data management, analysis and computer work. Direct care workers need to be present by the patient's side for hours. They must observe the patient's state and ensure that he recovers from his illness soon. If they have proficiency in medical science, they are allowed to administer medicines and provide first aid. If not, the direct care work would include nursing work only. Nursing work includes assistance with eating, cooking, bathing, maneuvering, etc. Direct care workers must ensure that the patients are well looked after.
Requirements of Work
Most direct care workers do not require formal educational qualifications. They get training on-the-job. They are taught the medical practices of care giving. Some organizations may ask for certification in nursing, therapy or care giving. Many universities and medical institutes give training on basic care-giving. However, personality traits and work experience matter more in this profession. Direct care work requires volunteers who are patient and compassionate. They must be sympathetic towards the shortcomings of the patients, so much that it develops into a real passion to help the grieving patients tackle his illness.
Place of Work
There are several individuals who need medical assistance. Many elderly individuals are unable to move or perform these daily chores. They have a tendency to forget things. Also, their reflexes are slow. Similarly, those who are ill do not possess enough strength to do basic work of eating, cooking, bathing and so on. People with disabilities too face certain limitations. Hence, direct care workers cater to the needs of such individuals by helping them in their daily activities. The common places of work for direct care work include:
Work Environment
Direct care work is a job that can be mentally and physically exhausting. Often, they have to face medical emergencies where they have to administer first aid or take the patient to a hospital quickly. This can be stressful for the worker. Besides they must be physically strong as often they are required to lift the patient and put him on a wheel chair/another bed. On many occasions, direct care workers end up working for 24 hours at a stretch. This can cause fatigue. Also, caregivers may get affected with diseases by coming in close contact with the patients. In spite of an exhaustive work profile, direct care work offers job satisfaction unparalleled to any other profile.
Work Scope
Career opportunities for direct care work volunteers are showing commendable growth. As more and more organizations realize the importance of employing skilled care givers, the demand for direct care workers will increase even more. Those candidates with specialized qualifications will get better opportunities in competitive markets. However, in certain cities, due to lack of recognition and professional development, many direct care workers are discouraged from pursuing this career full time. Hence, make sure you register your name for an authorized nursing or care giver's community and stay updated with latest advancements in field of care giving to make sure all right opportunities knock on your door.
Pursuing a career in direct care work is not just a noble cause but can be a full time career. Hence, we believe that direct care work will help all job seekers enjoy a rewarding and satisfying career.