Personal Support Worker

This course provides an introduction to the roles, responsibilities, and work environments relevant to Personal Support Workers (PSWs), along with key legal, professional, and ethical issues in the field. Through case studies, classroom discussions, testing, students will explore the foundational principles and practices of PSW work in various settings, including healthcare facilities, community environments, and other healthcare workplaces.

This course introduces the student to the basic structure and function of the human body throughout the lifespan. Topics will include basic anatomy, medical terminology, physiology, nutritional needs, hygiene, the importance of body mechanics, and infection control. Through various activities, discussions, testing, students will gain a greater understanding of the human body.

This course develops professional communication and interpersonal skills essential for Personal Support Workers (PSWs). Students learn to interact effectively with clients, caregivers, supervisors, and colleagues through theory, role plays, and practical activities. Through various assessments, an emphasis is placed on clarity, self-awareness, and professionalism in both oral and written communication.

This course focuses on the role of Personal Support Workers in palliative and end-of-life care. Topics include the history of palliative care, the roles of various team members, and the physical and emotional impacts at the end of life and the grieving processes on clients, families, and caregivers. Through various assessments including case studies and personal reflections, students will develop self-awareness and a deeper understanding of all aspects of palliative and end of life care.

This course integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application through simulation lab experiences. Students will develop skills in personal care, mobility, lifts and transfers, and safe meal assistance through hands-on demonstrations. Emphasis is placed on applying theory to provide safe, organized care that supports individuals in activities of daily living.

This course provides students with hands on experience within a healthcare setting. Students apply previously learned knowledge to provide safe, organized care to assist the individual with activities of daily living.

This course provides students with hands on experience within a healthcare setting. Students apply previously learned knowledge to provide safe, organized care to assist the individual with activities of daily living.

This course explores the impact of mental illness, substance abuse, and dementia on individuals and their families. Through guest speaker presentations, dementia training, assignments, and testing, students will examine care and support needs, caregiving approaches, and the roles and responsibilities of Personal Support Workers within the care team.

This course focuses on the principles and practices of safe medication administration and management within the scope of practice for Personal Support Workers. Students will explore the various types of medications, their uses, effects, and potential interactions while gaining the knowledge and skills to support clients in adhering to prescribed medication regimens. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the PSW's role in collaboration with the healthcare team, maintaining client safety, and adhering to ethical and legal guidelines on medication administration.

This course integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application through simulation lab experiences. Students will learn advanced concepts including pregnancy, fetal development, infancy and the post-partum period, medications, wound care, and vital signs. Emphasis is placed on applying theory to provide safe, organized care that supports individuals in activities of daily living.

This course provides students with hands on experience within a healthcare setting. Students apply previously learned advanced concepts including vital signs, assistance with pain management, enteral nutrition, colostomy care, and simple wound care to provide safe, organized care to assist the individual with activities of daily living.

In partnership with assigned agency staff, the student performs the various responsibilities of an entry level Personal Support Worker within facility and community clinical settings. Through guided evaluation and feedback the student meets the diverse needs of the client while functioning as an integral member of the health care team.