Supporting Individuals with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD) in a Person-Centered Environment
At Allegheny Alliance, we are dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) by providing high-quality, person-centered care in alignment with ODP (Office of Developmental Programs) regulations.
As a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), you will play an essential role in assisting individuals with daily living activities, promoting their health and well-being, and ensuring their safety in home and community-based settings.
This position requires a compassionate, patient-centered approach, adherence to ODP standards, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams to enhance individuals’ independence, dignity, and quality of life.
Key Responsibilities
Personal Care & Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
- Assist individuals with bathing, grooming, dressing, toileting, and mobility, ensuring respect for personal dignity and privacy in accordance with ODP’s Everyday Lives philosophy.
- Support individuals with feeding, hydration, and specialized dietary needs, following Individual Support Plans (ISPs) and prescribed nutrition guidelines.
- Provide hands-on assistance with positioning, transfers, and mobility, using proper techniques and assistive devices to prevent injury and support independence.
Health Monitoring & Medication Support
- Monitor and document individuals’ vital signs (temperature, pulse, respiration, and blood pressure), reporting significant changes to the supervising nurse and ISP team.
- Observe for health concerns, behavioral changes, and signs of discomfort, ensuring timely intervention and documentation per ODP Health & Safety guidelines.
- Assist with medication administration under ODP regulations, ensuring compliance with the ODP Medication Administration Training Program if required by the provider.
Safety, Mobility, & Behavioral Support
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized environment, adhering to infection control measures and ODP safety protocols.
- Use proper lifting, transfer, and ambulation techniques to prevent injuries and promote mobility and independence.
- Provide support and reassurance to individuals experiencing distress, anxiety, or behavioral challenges, following Positive Behavior Support (PBS) strategies outlined in the ISP.
Assistance with Medical Procedures & Health-Related Tasks
- Assist nurses and other healthcare professionals with basic medical procedures, such as wound care, catheter care, and specimen collection, in accordance with ODP-approved protocols.
- Support individuals with durable medical equipment (DME), mobility aids, and assistive devices, ensuring proper use and maintenance.
- Monitor for seizure activity, respiratory concerns, and chronic condition management, documenting and reporting concerns per individualized risk plans and ODP regulations.
Communication & Team Collaboration
- Effectively communicate with individuals, families, Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), nurses, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure consistent, high-quality care.
- Participate in ISP meetings, care plan discussions, and person-centered planning initiatives to advocate for individuals’ needs and preferences.
- Foster positive, trusting relationships with individuals by offering emotional support, encouragement, and companionship.
Documentation & Compliance
- Accurately document all care provided, observations, and changes in individuals’ health status in electronic health records (EHRs) or paper-based documentation systems, ensuring compliance with ODP, DHS, and provider policies.
- Report Unusual Incidents (UIs) in the Enterprise Incident Management (EIM) system, following ODP reporting requirements.
- Maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA, ODP, and organizational policies regarding sensitive information.
Qualifications & Requirements
Required Credentials & Experience
- Completion of a state-approved CNA training program and active certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Pennsylvania.
- Current CPR/BLS certification; additional certifications (e.g., First Aid, Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI), or ODP Medication Administration Training) may be required.
- Experience supporting individuals with IDD, autism, or complex medical needs is strongly preferred.
- Understanding of ODP regulations, Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), and person-centered planning.
- Physical ability to assist with transfers, mobility, and positioning in a safe and supportive manner.
Key Skills & Competencies
- Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills to collaborate effectively with individuals, families, and care teams.
- Patience, empathy, and commitment to person-centered care, ensuring individuals are treated with respect and dignity.
- Attention to detail to accurately document observations and follow care plans.
Additional Requirements
- PA Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse Clearance, and FBI Fingerprinting in compliance with ODP regulations.
- Ability to pass a physical exam and drug screening, if required.
- Completion of ODP-mandated training on person-centered care, safety protocols, and compliance standards.
Why Join Allegheny Alliance?
✅ Make an Impact – Support individuals with IDD in leading fulfilling, independent lives.
✅ Collaborative & Supportive Work Environment – Work with a dedicated team focused on high-quality, person-centered services.
✅ Professional Growth & Training – Gain ongoing education in ODP best practices, behavioral supports, and healthcare skills.
✅ Flexible Scheduling – Work full-time, part-time, or per diem, depending on service needs.
Apply Today!
Join Allegheny Alliance in providing exceptional, person-centered care for individuals with IDD while ensuring compliance with ODP’s high standards.
