Diane R.

About Diane

While completing the most challenging term of the occupational therapy assistant program at St Louis Community College in 2005, I cared for my father while he was in hospice for the last few weeks of his life. It was during this time that I established my core principle as a health care provider: work to ensure that each person lives and dies with dignity. During my years as a caregiver, I've learned to place a high value on my characteristics that foster a positive experience with a client. I offer enthusiasm, willingness to be wrong, sense of humor, and the ability to communicate at another person's level. These qualities can alter an experience from good to great. I've worked in homes and facilities, for patients with a variety of physical or mental conditions. My on the job training has included administering medications, auditing chart notes, nurse-delegated tasks such as insulin injections and wound care. I've forgotten much of what I've learned, to be honest. What I don't forget is the importance of providing the care that each patient deems right to remain dignified. After several years away from a job in healthcare, I've recently had the pleasure of providing in home care for an elderly man in hospice. For me, the remarkable aspect of caregiving are the implicit roles necessary to ensure that clients and patients maintain as much autonomy and individuality as possible. It's the way a caregiver approaches the nuances of everyday life that determines the quality of care, and life, for a patient. My enthusiasm, ability to find gratitude in all things, patience, and sense of humor are the qualities that let me shine. Providing care is not always easy. Firmly upholding the value of assisting people in a way that preserves their autonomy and dignity is what keeps me going through the not easy aspects of care giving.

Caregiving Services & Expertise

Experience & Education

Home Care Worker

Mar 2020 - May 2020

Private employer

Provided companionship and assistance with ADLs for a 93 year old gentleman in hospice care. Communicated with employer's family members and advocated for employer as necessary to maintain safe practices. Prepared meals, assisted with feeding, toileted, transferred from bed to wheelchair, groomed, dressed, bathed, employer. Coordinated care among hospice staff, employer and family members. Allowed employer to grieve as he became aware of his condition. Used humor, authenticity, patience and compassion to demonstrate and promote serenity to employer.

Mar 2020 - May 2020

Med Aide

Aug 2010 - Mar 2013

Providence ElderPlace - Irvington Village

Assist residents with activities of daily living. Prepare and administer medications and treatments to 50+ residents. Coordinate care with healthcare team. Maintain current CPR and safety certifications. Document medication administration and health chart notes. Audit treatment documentation. Establish a charitable "basic needs" item inventory and policies to ensure residents obtain essential toiletries and supplies upon move in.

Aug 2010 - Mar 2013

St. Louis Community College

Jan 2005 - Jan 2007

Florissant, MO

Jan 2005 - Jan 2007

Quincy University

Jan 1992 - Jan 1998

Quincy, IL

Jan 1992 - Jan 1998

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