​Caregiver Screening, Training and Evaluation

​Caregiver 7-Step Screening Process

Each one of our caregivers must undergo a comprehensive seven-step screening and thorough hiring process.  Each caregiver is carefully matched and oriented to each client’s needs with the goal to establish a great relationship between the caregiver and client. 

​Step 1: Phone Interview
​Each potential caregiver goes through a phone interview with our agency manager.  The interview is designed to test the caregiver’s home care knowledge and communication skills.

Step 2: Application & Face-to-Face Interview
Prospective caregivers must complete a detailed application providing their work history including a minimum of two years of private home care experience and professional references.  In addition, applicants must complete an in-depth, in person interview so we can identify areas where they have experience and previous knowledge.
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Step 3: Background Check and Screening
For all caregiver applicants, we authorize a finger-print criminal background check at the federal, state and county level.  We confirm the applicant doesn’t have a disqualifying background check under the requirements of the Health Care Worker Background Check Act.  We confirm the applicant is properly registered with the Illinois Department of Public Health, has a valid driver’s license and motor vehicle insurance, and is legally able to work in the United States.

Step 4: Reference Checks
All applicants are required to supply us with at least three professional references.  We contact all three to make sure that we are selecting caregivers with a solid reputation.

Step 5: Orientation and Initial Training
During the mandatory orientation, potential caregivers are introduced to the values and policies of BlueSky Home Care and Transportation.  In addition, we arrange for a minimum of eight hours of training for each caregiver.  Four hours of training must be completed before the caregiver’s first assignment, and the remaining four hours must be completed within the caregiver’s first 30 days of employment.


Step 6: Competency Exam
Following orientation, each applicant is tested on their ability to handle specific care situations, including transfers, understanding dementia, dressing techniques and safety precautions.  All prospective caregivers take a comprehensive exam which covers all major topics in home care.  They are required to have a minimum score of 80% before accepting their first assignment.

Step 7: Ongoing Training
All BlueSky caregivers must complete a minimum of eight hours of continuing education during each calendar year. This ensures they stay abreast of the latest techniques and are providing you with the best possible care.

​We take these steps so we can match clients with first-class, compassionate, qualified caregivers who truly are committed to excellence. If you’re seeking a caregiver, please contact BlueSky Home Care and Transportation to set up a personal meeting with a top-quality caregiver matched to your personality and needs. 
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​Caregiver Training and Orientation

As part of the licensing requirements of the State of Illinois Department of Public health, BlueSky Home Care and Transportation must deliver at least 8 hours of continuing education each year to each caregiver. Caregivers must also pass test to demonstrate competency. Specific training topics include:

• How to Communicate with Someone Who has Alzheimer’s
• Disease Understanding Dementia
• Reporting Abnormal Observations
• Using Assistive Devices 
• Infection Control in Home Care Client Safety Tips
• Home Care Safety Tips Standard Precautions 
• Basic First Aid Tips​
• ​Understanding Abuse and Reporting Requirements Disaster Planning

• Bathing Tips
• Maintaining Client’s Dignity
• Dressing and Grooming Tips
• Understanding Cultural Diversity
• Food Preparation and Safety
• Handling Incontinence
• Quality Improvement
• Activity and the Elderly ​

Caregiver Evaluation Process

All caregivers are supervised by the Agency Manager. She insures that the caregiver understands the Individual Plan of Care for each client. She makes supervisory visits to update the Plan of Care and evaluate quality of care provided. Caregivers are evaluated on an ongoing basis and receive annual performance evaluations by the Agency Manager. 
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BlueSky Home Care provides home care services with highly skilled caregivers in the Chicago area; including Cook, DuPage, and Will Counties in the State of Illinois. Contact us at (708) 482-7424 today if you have questions or would like to schedule a complimentary assessment of your home care needs.

Become a BlueSky Caregiver

​Are you compassionate, patient, dependable and trustworthy? Are you looking for a rewarding and fulfilling career?  If so, we invite you to apply with us to join our exceptional team of caregivers.
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BlueSky Home Care and Transportation takes affirmative action to select the best-qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, national origin, gender, sexual preference, age, religion, or disability where accommodations will not impose an undue hardship on the company. BlueSky Home Care and Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. 

Become a BlueSky Caregiver