What is a key responsibility of a Direct Support Professional (DSP)?

A key responsibility of a Direct Support Professional (DSP) is to assist individuals with daily living skills. This includes helping with essential tasks such as personal hygiene, meal preparation, medication management, and community integration. The focus of a DSP's role is to support individuals in achieving their personal goals and leading an independent life, while promoting their dignity and self-esteem.

Daily living skills are foundational for individuals to manage their everyday needs and live as independently as possible. By providing assistance in this area, DSPs empower individuals, enhance their quality of life, and promote personal growth.

The other options presented do not accurately reflect the primary focus of a DSP's role. Leading clinical therapies falls outside the scope of a DSP’s training and responsibilities, which are focused more on support and assistance rather than therapy provision. Providing companionship is part of the role but not the sole responsibility, as the role is broader and encompasses specific support in daily tasks. Making medical decisions is also not within the DSP's responsibilities, as such decisions should be made by qualified healthcare professionals. Thus, assisting individuals with daily living skills is a fundamental and key responsibility of a Direct Support Professional.