7-006.02A Role of Adult Protective Service Worker

The primary role of the APS worker is to gather information to validate abuse/neglect and to determine what services, if any, are needed and how they can best be provided.  When necessary, a plan is developed and implemented to provide safety for the vulnerable adult.  The priority during this time is securing safety.  The APS worker also works with the community systems to complete the investigation so the most appropriate and adequate services can be initiated.  The vulnerable adult must receive intervention in the least restrictive and least intrusive manner possible consistent with an adults right to self-determination.  The APS worker obtains additional consultation from supervisory staff and teams, when appropriate. APS staff make referrals, as needed, both within and outside the Department.  

APS Workers at the investigation phase must be:

• Skilled professionals who are well trained;

• Knowledgeable about statutes, rules and policy; and

• Responsible for making a decision with the information available.