Continuing Care Assistant

Acute Care for Continuing Care Assistant

This module provides additional knowledge and skills to support clients in the hospital setting. The learner will acquire skills to assist the health care team with heat and cold applications, meeting client oxygen needs, physical examinations, medication, enteral nutrition and I.V. therapy. The learner will also learn to assist with urinary and fecal elimination.

Body Structure, Function, Related Health Issues & Medication Awareness - Level I

This module will enable the learner to acquire a basic knowledge of the normal structure and function of the body. It provides an introduction to common health issues and the implications for care.

Body Structure, Function, Related Health Issues & Medication Awareness - Level II

This module builds on knowledge acquired in Part I and will enable the learner to acquire a basic knowledge of the normal structure and function of the body. It provides an introduction to common health issues and the implications for care. It will continue to allow the learner to cultivate an awareness of medications and the role of the CCA in supporting the needs of the person.

Body Mechanics

In this module the learner will be introduced to the principles of body movement and safety to be followed during the performance of all direct and indirect assistance activities in the classroom, lab and placement settings. S/he will acquire and demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure his/her own safety and that of the person when assisting with activities of daily living.

Care Setting Management, Nutrition & Meal Preparation

This module is designed to enable the learner to develop the skills required for the basic safety and cleanliness of the person’s care setting, whether a private residence or within another type of care setting, according to the scope of employment policies. It prepares the CCA to organize and complete daily care setting management tasks. S/he will also learn how to set priorities and develop time management skills. Also In this module the learner will focus on nutrition and the role of the CCA in meeting the dietary needs of individuals of all ages. S/he will plan menus, understand basic meal preparation practices, prepare and serve meals to meet person-specific nutritional needs.

Communication in the Care Setting/Documentation and Technology

This module will introduce the learner to effective interpersonal communication practices for CCAs. The learner will become familiar with different types of professional relationships and the appropriate forms of interpersonal communication that occur in care settings. The learner will assess his/her strengths and areas for improvement in interpersonal communications generally. The learner also will understand and practice communication strategies and approaches that will strengthen his/her ability to deal with the varied situations s/he might encounter as a CCA. This module will also provide an introduction to the various forms of written communication required of CCAs in care settings and how CCAs can approach care-related written communication appropriately and effectively. The learner will recognize the importance of documentation in the coordination and monitoring of care and will overview various forms of documentation. The learner also will develop his or her written communication and documentation skills. Additionally, the learner will be introduced to the appropriate uses of technology by CCAs both inside and outside care settings.

Career Planning & Preparation - Level I

This module introduces tools for planning and preparing for a successful job search, so that students can maintain a career-focused approach throughout their education program. Students will learn about the "Hidden" Job Market and ways to access it in their upcoming job search, how to research opportunities and network for industry contacts, and use appropriate etiquette when communicating with prospective employers. Students will identify their personal skills, values and preferences for the workplace, begin preparation of a professional resume and references, and organize proof documents for their career portfolio. Class discussions on various self-management topics introduced in Student Success Strategies will round out this module, which is a pre-requisite for Career Planning and Preparation - Part II.

Career Planning & Preparation - Level I

This module introduces tools for planning and preparing for a successful job search, so that students can maintain a career-focused approach throughout their education program. Students will learn about the "Hidden" Job Market and ways to access it in their upcoming job search, how to research opportunities and network for industry contacts, and use appropriate etiquette when communicating with prospective employers. Students will identify their personal skills, values and preferences for the workplace, begin preparation of a professional resume and references, and organize proof documents for their career portfolio. Class discussions on various self-management topics introduced in Student Success Strategies will round out this module, which is a pre-requisite for Career Planning and Preparation - Part II.

Career Planning & Preparation - Level II

This module builds on concepts and skills introduced in the Career Planning and Preparation Level 1 prerequisite module. In this subsequent module, you will update and refine your resume and Linked In Profile. You will continue writing cover letters and learn the value of customizing cover letters to specific job postings. You will have the opportunity to apply this knowledge as you conduct a job search and write a cover letter tailored to an ideal job post. Through research, you will create a list of top employers and target current industry opportunities. You will learn about current methods for applying to job postings using technology. You will also gain an understanding of the job interview process, typical interview questions and possible responses, and expectations of both the interviewer and interviewee. In addition, you will engage in practical application of the interview process through role-plays. Topics such as negotiating salary, self-management, and on-the-job success for placements and post-graduate employment will be also covered.

Career Planning & Preparation - Level II

This module builds on concepts and skills introduced in the Career Planning and Preparation Level 1 prerequisite module. In this subsequent module, you will update and refine your resume and Linked In Profile. You will continue writing cover letters and learn the value of customizing cover letters to specific job postings. You will have the opportunity to apply this knowledge as you conduct a job search and write a cover letter tailored to an ideal job post. Through research, you will create a list of top employers and target current industry opportunities. You will learn about current methods for applying to job postings using technology. You will also gain an understanding of the job interview process, typical interview questions and possible responses, and expectations of both the interviewer and interviewee. In addition, you will engage in practical application of the interview process through role-plays. Topics such as negotiating salary, self-management, and on-the-job success for placements and post-graduate employment will be also covered.

Standard First Aid/CPR Level C/WHMIS

This course trains participants in a variety of industry required certifications.

Digital Literacy for Professionals

This course has four units that introduces you to the fundamental concepts and principles of learning and working in a digital environment. The first unit introduces you to using devices and handling information with topics on operating systems (Windows, MAC, and Linux), computer organization (folder management and naming conventions), cloud storage (including Microsoft OneDrive), types of web browsers including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Apple Safari), and fundamental troubleshooting. In the second unit, you will become familiar with creating and editing information through learning about file formats (pdf, mp4, docx), productivity (including iWork and Microsoft Office Suite) and creativity (Adobe, Canva, iMovie) platforms, and basic introduction to Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The third unit on communicating and collaborating will introduce you to web conferencing applications (Slack, Zoom, Microsoft Teams), mail applications (including Microsoft Outlook and Gmail,), project management tools (Trello, Asana), and time management tools (including Todoist, Outlook Calendar, and iCal), and building rapport virtually. In the final unit, you will gain an understanding on etiquette, cybersecurity, and digital wellness. After completing this course, you will have enhanced digital literacy skills as a professional in the working and learning environment.

Environmental Safety

In this module, the learner will gain an understanding of his/her role as a CCA in providing a safe and secure environment. S/he will become familiar with strategies, rules, regulations and protocols that will help him/her to minimize workplace risk. There is an emphasis on infection control.

Skills Development Placement

During Skills Development learners will have the opportunity to develop their skills in the Nursing Homes/Homes for the Aged setting. This placement is meant to introduce the student to a real work environment to develop their skills by providing hands on experience under the direct supervision of an RN or LPN. Learners gain practical experience in meeting the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) needs of indivuduals. Al Skills Development placement hours must be completed by learners after the required theory and lab to meet program requirements and may occur during any 24 huor/7 day a week period over 12 months of the year.

Home Support Mentorship

Home support placements provide the learners with opportunity to work in partnership with a mentor to develop and practice skills unique to home support. The Home Support Mentorship placement occurs with a home support agency providing service to Department of Health and Wellness. Learners gain practical experience in meeting the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) needs of individuals.

Nursing Homes/Homes for the Aged Mentorship

Nursing Homes/Homes for the Aged placements provide the learners with the opportunity to apply theory and skills in the workplace as they work in partnership with a mentor. The placement occurs in Department of Health and Wellness licensed settings. Learners gain practical experience in meeting the Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) needs of inviduals.

Open Mentorship

Open placements provide learners with the opportunity to enhance and transfer their knowledge, skills and abilities to one or more placement sites including acute care facilities, home care agencies, nursing homes/homes for the aged, and other approved care settings.

Growth & Development

In this module the CCA will understand and apply the principles of growth and development to meet the person’s needs appropriately and adequately. Knowing the person’s level of physical, emotional and social development is crucial to planning and providing care. This module emphasizes how these needs change as the person progresses through the life cycle.

Introduction to CCA, Healthcare & CCA Professional Development

This module introduces the learner to the Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) program, the health care sector as well the role of the CCA and the CCAs general responsibilities as an integral provider of care and member of the health care team. The module also introduces the learner to the framework governing the delivery of care and the various types of health care services and service providers in Nova Scotia. Components of the health care system including long term care, home support, acute care and mental health across the continuum will also be discussed. The learner will recognize how the social philosophy of care and the CCA Scope of Practice are consistent dimensions of the CCA role, regardless of environment. The learner also will recognize the professional responsibilities associated with the CCA role, and will be introduced to the professional qualities and behaviours that contribute to a successful career as a CCA.

Mental Health and Social Issues

This module is designed to prepare the learner to recognize and support individuals who are experiencing mental health issues as well as various types of abuse and neglect. It explores strategies to maintain mental health and social well– being. Community resources are also identified. Challenging/responsive behaviours are briefly discussed but are explored in further detail in the Alzheimer Disease and Other Dementia Care Course. Students will be evaluated through a variety of assignments, projects, quizzes, and exams in addition to their participation throughout the course.

Palliative Care

The course focuses on the knowledge and skills required when working with those living with a life limiting illness and their families.

Personal Care for Continuing Care Assistant

In this module the learner will be introduced to the principles relating to personal care using a person-centered philosophy of care approach. S/he will learn, practice and demonstrate the practical skills necessary for respectfully, safely and effectively providing personal care to individuals across the life cycle.

Student Success Strategies

In this orientation module, emphasis is placed on thinking about achieving success from Day One. This module stresses the importance of developing non-technical skills to enhance personal, academic, and career success. This includes understanding learning styles and honing practical study skills, such as memory, reading, note-and test-taking techniques. Personal exercises will focus on teamwork, decision making and problem solving skills, setting SMART goals and maintaining a positive attitude; techniques for managing change, stress and conflict will also be explored.

Student Success Strategies

In this orientation module, emphasis is placed on thinking about achieving success from Day One. This module stresses the importance of developing non-technical skills to enhance personal, academic, and career success. This includes understanding learning styles and honing practical study skills, such as memory, reading, note-and test-taking techniques. Personal exercises will focus on teamwork, decision making and problem solving skills, setting SMART goals and maintaining a positive attitude; techniques for managing change, stress and conflict will also be explored.