Agency Respite Provider (SC 862)
What Is Respite Care?
Respite care gives family caregivers a much-needed break. When someone has a developmental disability, caregivers such as parents or siblings provide daily support and supervision. A respite provider temporarily steps in to ensure the individual remains safe, comfortable, and supported while the family rests, handles responsibilities, or recharges.
What a Respite Provider Does
- Keep the client safe and supervised at all times
- Assist with daily tasks such as meals, hygiene, dressing, and mobility
- Follow the client's routines and personal preferences
- Encourage activities and hobbies the client enjoys
- Treat the client with dignity, respect, and kindness
- Support the client's right to make their own choices
- Document important information about each visit
- Contact a supervisor immediately if a concern arises
- Respect the client's home and belongings
- Follow the IPP exactly as written
What a Respite Provider Does Not Do
- Make medical decisions or sign medical documents
- Administer or change medications without authorization
- Use physical restraint unless specifically approved
- Punish, isolate, or restrict the client's freedom
- Share confidential information
- Provide services not listed in the IPP
- Complete household tasks unrelated to direct client care
Important Respite Care Practices
- The client has the legal right to dignity and respect
- Clear communication improves care quality
- In emergencies, call 911 first
- Services must stay within the IPP guidelines
- Suspected abuse or neglect must be reported immediately
- Collaboration between family and provider keeps the client safe
Respite with Behavioral Skills Support
Some individuals require respite services that include specialized behavioral skills support. Behavioral Respite Care Providers are responsible for the following duties in addition to standard respite care responsibilities:
- Implement evidence-based strategies and techniques to improve in areas such as communication training, social functioning, and self-care & hygiene
- Coordinate and team with other service providers involved in the individual's care
- Contribute to the biannual progress team review and progress report to determine whether the individual continues to need respite with behavioral skills support