Attendant requirements and screening
The bar for this work is about trustworthiness and reliability, not credentials. Here is what is actually required.
Basic requirements
- Legally authorized to work in the United States, with documentation.
- Not the consumer’s spouse. Missouri law is explicit: RSMo 208.900 defines an attendant as “a person, other than the consumer’s spouse.” Every other relationship is permitted.
- Able to perform the authorized tasks, which can include physically assisting someone to transfer or bathe.
- Cleared through required background screening.
- Hired by a consumer who has an authorized CDS care plan.
- Completed onboarding and orientation with us.
Background screening
Missouri requires background screening for people providing in-home care to vulnerable adults. Screening for this work generally includes:
- The Family Care Safety Registry, Missouri’s central registration and background screening system for care workers.
- Criminal history checks.
- Abuse and neglect registry checks.
Screening requirements are set by the state and can change. We will tell you exactly what applies to you when you apply, and we will not ask you to start work before required clearances are in place. Anyone who offers to let you start “off the books” while screening is pending is putting both of you at risk.
Does a criminal record disqualify me?
Not automatically, and it depends entirely on what is on it. Certain offences — particularly those involving violence, abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable people — are disqualifying. Many other records are not.
The practical advice: tell us up front. A record you disclose is a conversation. A record we discover after you said there was nothing ends the process regardless of what it was.
Driving
Not required, but useful. Essential transportation — medical appointments, shopping, errands — is one of the tasks CDS authorizes, so an attendant who drives can cover more of a care plan. If you will drive, you need a valid license and vehicle insurance.
Physical demands, honestly
This work can involve helping an adult transfer from bed to wheelchair, supporting someone’s weight while they walk, and bending or kneeling for bathing and dressing. Some consumers need very little physical help; others need a great deal. Be honest with yourself and with the consumer about what you can safely do — an injured attendant helps nobody.
What you will not be asked to do
- Give injections or manage IVs.
- Perform sterile wound care.
- Deliver physical, occupational or speech therapy.
- Make clinical or medical judgments.
- Work outside the consumer’s authorized care plan.
If you are ever asked to do something clinical, decline and call us.
Meet the requirements? Let’s talk.
Call (314) 809-6655 for a free consultation, or text (314) 886-5902. We serve St. Louis City, St. Louis County and Missouri communities within about 40 miles of our office.