Direct Support Professional (DSP) Orientation & Welcome Guide
Orientation for DSPs working with clients under Service Code 062 and Service Code 862.
1. The Developmental Disabilities System
California has a special law called the Lanterman Act. This law says that people with disabilities have the right to get the help they need to live happy, independent lives in their home communities.
Regional Centers are local nonprofit organizations that coordinate and fund services. Agencies like Adaley provide direct services that help consumers achieve their goals and remain active in their communities.
2. Important California Laws (WIC Rules)
As a DSP, you must follow these laws during every shift.
| Law Number | What It Is | What You Must Do |
|---|---|---|
| WIC §4502 | Human Rights | Treat consumers with dignity and respect. |
| WIC §4504 | Ability to Choose | Support consumer choice and self-determination. |
| WIC §4518 | Privacy Rules | Protect confidential information. |
| WIC §4646.5 | IPP Process | Support goals identified in the Individual Program Plan. |
| WIC §4648 | Regional Center Services | Help consumers participate in community life. |
| WIC §4655 | Emergency Medical Decisions | Know emergency contacts and procedures. |
| WIC §4710 & 4710.5 | Fair Hearing Rights | Respect consumer appeal rights. |
3. Client Rights (Title 17, Section 50510)
Clients have rights that must always be protected.
- Be treated with kindness and have their privacy respected.
- Practice any religion they choose.
- Be safe from hitting, mean words, neglect, or being locked in a room.
- Be free from abuse, neglect, exploitation, intimidation, coercion, retaliation, and all forms of mistreatment.
- Be part of the community and do fun things with others.
- Pick out their own clothes and keep their own personal belongings.
4. Your Job: Service Code 062 vs. Service Code 862
Code 062: Personal Assistance
The Goal: Teach Skills for Daily Life
- Teach and reinforce daily living skills.
- Support community participation.
- Promote independence and goal achievement.
Code 862: In-Home Respite Services
The Goal: Give the Family a Break
- Provide supervision and support.
- Keep the consumer safe and engaged.
- Relieve the primary caregiver.
5. Abuse Prevention, Consumer Protection & Reporting Requirements
Adaley Inc. maintains a zero-tolerance approach to abuse, neglect, exploitation, or mistreatment of consumers. Every consumer has the right to receive services in a safe environment and to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion at all times.
Adaley Inc. enforces zero tolerance for abuse, neglect, exploitation, or mistreatment of consumers. Any confirmed violation will result in immediate corrective and disciplinary action, including termination of employment and reporting to appropriate authorities, regulatory agencies, protective services, law enforcement, and/or the Regional Center as required by law.
As a Direct Support Professional, you are a Mandated Reporter under California law. If you witness, suspect, receive information about, or reasonably believe that a consumer may be experiencing abuse, neglect, exploitation, or a violation of their rights, you must report it immediately.
Examples of reportable concerns include:
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Emotional or verbal abuse
- Neglect or abandonment
- Financial exploitation
- Consumer rights violations
- Unexplained injuries
- Unsafe living conditions
- Any situation that places a consumer's health, safety, or welfare at risk
Adaley Inc. encourages staff to report suspected violations of laws, regulations, consumer rights, ethical standards, or agency policies. Employees who report concerns in good faith, participate in investigations, or cooperate with regulatory reviews may do so without fear of retaliation. Retaliation against any employee for making a good-faith report is strictly prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.
What to do if a serious incident occurs
Serious incidents must be reported immediately.
6. Emergency Procedures
- Know emergency phone numbers and contacts.
- Locate exits, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits.
- Understand consumer-specific medical needs and emergency plans.
- Call 911 during emergencies and notify Adaley immediately.
7. Using the Aaniie EVV App (Clocking In)
DSPs must accurately clock in and out using the Aaniie platform as required.
Clock in when services begin and clock out when services end. Falsification of time records or repeated failures to follow timekeeping requirements may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.