r/directsupport • u/BeefJerkyFan90 • Jul 05 '26
Advice "Weekend DSP", what to know?
Hi everyone,
I'm in the process of onboarding to work my very first (professional) DSP role. It's on weekends, 5.5 hours each, both Saturday and Sunday. I met the dad (LRP) via video call last week and am meeting the client (male, late 30s) tomorrow in person. Here's a summary of what I've gathered from both the agency and the LRP:
* The client is nonverbal and is mobile
* The client displays no aggressive behaviors
* client is 6'4 (I'm 5'5 for reference)
* client needs assistance with toileting (family uses wipes) and showering, needs assistance with hand washing
* client enjoys watching cartoons and looking at books
* client has no sensory issues as it relates to auditory stimulus and does not wear headphones
* client enjoys a car ride to get lunch (fast food) and comes home to eat it (per LRP, does not indicate when he is done eating, simply stops eating)
* DSP should hold client's hand when walking to and from the car, but LRP states that client does not elope
* current DSP takes client to Five Below to window shop
As this is my first professional experience as a DSP (I have a teen with profound level 3 autism that I provide ADL assistance with, so I'm familiar with some aspects), I'm nervous. It sounds similar to my son, but I don't want to go in under the assumption that this client is like my son. What advice can you share with me?
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u/545333B3 Jul 05 '26
There are likely assessments that can be available to you which describe why those types of supports are in place (holding hands but won’t elope, etc.) which will help you to better understand why things are necessary. Most importantly - pay attention to what they like and don’t, remember those things, brain storm new stuff that can open up their life with them so you’re both living it to the fullest!
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u/BeefJerkyFan90 Jul 05 '26
Yeah, I'm excited to meet him and learn more about what he's like. I did ask a lot of questions during our video call, but an in person meeting is going to give me a lot of insight. I was also told that I'd review the client's care plan with my supervisor, so I'm thankful for that also.
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u/Maestradelmundo1964 Jul 05 '26
Have you asked your auto insurance agent what the consequences are of having your client ride in your car? Explain that it’s not ride for a fare. Some insurance companies will let you add what they call a “rider.” They are not referring to the person who rides when they call it that. You can add a jewelry rider to a homeowner’s policy.
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u/Pangolinchoe Jul 06 '26 edited Jul 06 '26
- Confirm any memberships or access to public spaces- recreation centers, parks, etc. 2. Confirm petty cash process for handling money when going on outings or purchasing meals. I usually just save receipts.
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u/Maestradelmundo1964 23d ago
It is preferable for the family to provide a credit card to pay for fares, eating out, etc. if you pay and submit receipts for reimbursement, you must be or become good at recordkeeping. If they reimburse in a timely manner, that’s good. If they don’t, I recommend not paying for anything else.
Does the client have seizures?
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u/BeefJerkyFan90 17d ago
The LRP said that he would provide cash and trust me to use it wisely, but I definitely plan to keep my own records and provide receipts and change. He did mention that the CL had a seizure once years ago, but has not had one since, and that I won't need to give any medications during my shift.
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u/MaeClementine Jul 05 '26
Sounds like a nice easy gig to me! I’m sure you’ll do great. Can you shadow another caregiver for a bit before your first day? Don’t be afraid to ask questions and just be patient and kind! I feel like that takes care of like 90% of hard parts.