What does the term "assist" generally imply in a PCA's scope of practice?

The term "assist" within the context of a PCA's scope of practice fundamentally implies supporting patients with daily living activities. This includes a wide range of tasks aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals who may have difficulties performing these tasks independently. Such daily living activities can include helping with personal hygiene, dressing, grooming, feeding, mobility, and other basic needs necessary for maintaining dignity and comfort.

In the scope of practice for Personal Care Assistants, the emphasis is on providing help rather than performing tasks in isolation or making independent clinical judgments, which aligns with the primary role of a PCA to support rather than take full control or responsibility for medical decisions. The focus is on collaboration with patients to foster independence to the best degree possible while ensuring their safety and well-being.