Program Outline

Please click on the course title to see the course description.

• HSW Foundations

  The introductory module provides an overview of the scope of responsibilities of PSWs in a variety of settings. Students will learn about client-centred versus client-directed care; and emphasizing the individuality of the client and his/her relationship with family, friends and others. Key topics include work relationships, stress and time management, interpersonal skills and communications, including conflict resolution and problem-solving, and applicable legislation.

• Safety and Mobility

  This course develops the concept of assisting the consumer/client with routine activities of living. Topics include body mechanics, consistency in transferring, lifting techniques, and the use of equipment to increase safety and to reduce client anxiety, confusion, and dependency.

• Body Systems

  Students will be introduced to the basics of anatomy and physiology, and gain knowledge and understanding of human body systems that will help them as Personal Support Workers.

• Assisting a Person with Personal Hygiene

  This module involves caring for the ill, disabled, injured, and/or confused client. Frailness, dignity, and levels of dependence are considered. Personal hygiene involves personal safety, self-esteem, and consideration of dignity.

• Abuse and Neglect

  This course provides an introduction to family violence and abuse. Students will learn how to recognize possible signs of abuse, appropriate actions to be taken if abuse is suspected, and related legal requirements.

• Household Management, Nutrition and Hydration

  In this course, students will learn how to assist the client with their nutritional needs, household activities, and household management according to client preferences. Comfort and safety within employer guidelines, as required, are also discussed. Students will learn that nutritional needs include planning balanced nutritious menus, preparing shopping lists, shopping, safe handling of food, storage, and specific cooking techniques.

• Care Planning/Restorative Care/Documentation/ Working in the Community

  Building on the materials presented in the introductory module, HSW Foundations, this course identifies the support to be provided to the client, its need, and significance.

• Assisting the Family, Growth and Development

  This course emphasizes the influence of cultural values and practices, religious beliefs, and the effects of illness, stress and disability on family relationships as central to the HSW’s ability to provide effective support.

• Assisting the Dying Person

  This course discusses the concept of dying as a part of life and the possible impact of life-threatening illness on the person and their family. Students will examine personal beliefs about life-threatening illness, dying, and the provision of support to the dying person, and their family and friends.

• Cognitive/Mental Health Issues and Brain Injuries

  This course introduces topics of common psychiatric conditions of affective disorders and schizophrenia, substance abuse, cognitive impairment, and brain injuries.

• Soft Skills Solutions

  This module will introduce the student to some of the foundation skills valued in the workplace. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving and critical thinking are discussed and explored with professional techniques highlighted and practiced. Successfully working with diverse populations is a key focus of this course.