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Continuing Care Assistant


Location(s):  Prince Albert    Regina    Saskatoon    Distance Learning Option

Continuing Care Assistant is a certificate program. The program (formerly known as Home Care/Special Care Aide) provides knowledge and skill development in helping people help themselves in their homes and in special care facilities.

You will receive training in:

  • gerontology (a major area of study)

  • dementia management strategies

  • applying the philosophy of long-term care in home care, special care and community settings

  • promoting independence in a safe environment

  • working with people from all cultures

  • working with individuals with different levels of physical and cognitive impairment

  • giving personal care

  • attending to individual psychosocial needs


Length: 30 weeks


Why my job is so rewarding...

Career Opportunities

Graduates work under the supervision of registered nurses, registered psychiatric nurses or licensed practical nurses in home care or special care settings. Currently, 12 Regional Health Authorities and the Athabasca Health Authority are employers for home care and special care services. Graduates may gain employment in integrated facilities, personal care homes, and hospital settings.

For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the campus nearest you.

Program Details

Start Date(s): September

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Admission Requirements


Note

  • Applicants should have personal and physical suitability.

  • Accepted applicants may be required to undergo an interview and to provide evidence of a criminal records check prior to entering the practicum component of the program. At the discretion of the practicum agency, you may be declined access to a clinical or work placement based on the contents of the criminal records check. The cost of the criminal records check is your responsibility.

  • Standard First Aid and CPR HeartSaver 'C' AED or equivalent are required prior to participating in each final practicum for special care and home care.



Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. You must review the details and program specific documentation concerning Special Admission.


The majority of SIAST programs have established ACCUPLACER© cut scores and Post-Secondary Success Requirements. Depending on the program, additional specific admission requirements may still need to be met.


ACCUPLACER ©     

ACCUPLACER© Cut Scores
for this program

50Arithmetic
70Reading
70Sentence
Post-Secondary Success

Post-Secondary Success Requirements
for this program

One year post-secondary studies, or successful completion of seven Continuing Care Assistant courses (minimum grade of 60%) that must include SPCR 180, SPCR 182, SPCR 192, ANAT 100, SPCR 100 (or a TLR certificate), and must not include SANT 181 or SFTY 194


Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

Tuition and Fees

  • For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Learning Method(s)

SIAST offers a variety of learning methods for course delivery. The following learning methods are available for some of the courses in this program.
      Classroom
      Clinical/Practicum
      Home Study
      Online
      Sask. Communications Network
      Work Experience
      Work-based Training

Please refer to the course descriptions for course specific learning methods.


Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Availability

SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

Frequently asked questions regarding PLAR for this program are answered in the Fact Sheet. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.





Transfer Credit and Future Study Options

SIAST may recognize formal learning from other educational institutions.



  • ANAT 100  Body Systems
  • You will receive a basic introduction to body systems. You will study the structure of organs and systems in the human body, and how they function efficiently.

    1.0 Credit Units
    22.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   APHY 188    APHY 189   


  • COMM 198  Communication in the Workplace
  • You will learn written and oral communication skills required in the work place. The course content includes basic medical terminology, telephone and intercom etiquette, observing and reporting on client's status, care and personal work plans and problem solving.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Lecture/Lab, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence

    Equivalent Course(s):   NEPS 220    NURS 171   


  • COMM 291  Interpersonal Communications
  • You will develop employability skills by studying interpersonal communication theory and applications in the workplace. The course content includes the importance of self-awareness and self-esteem, perception problems, verbal and non-verbal messages, listening skills, creating positive communication climates and resolving interpersonal conflict.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   COMM 135    COMM 155    COMM 160    HUMR 182    JOBS 190    NEPS 114    NURS 114   


  • DEMC 183  Dementia - Behaviour
  • Your studies will address causes, stages and behaviours of dementia, behaviour mapping techniques and interventions that promote optimal level of functioning.

    3.0 Credit Units
    23.0 Lecture hours
    22.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence


  • PRAC 101  Mid Practicum
  • You will apply theory and skills in a special-care setting.

    7.0 Credit Units
    105.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Clinical/Practicum-Individual

    Equivalent Course(s):   CLIN 186   

    Prerequisites:
    SPCR 180 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPCR 182 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPCR 192 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPCR 100 Minimum Grade of P and ANAT 100 Minimum Grade of 60


  • PRAC 197  Mid Practicum
  • You will apply theory and skills in a home care setting.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Clinical/Practicum-Individual

    Prerequisites:
    SPCR 180 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPCR 182 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPCR 192 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPCR 100 Minimum Grade of P and ANAT 100 Minimum Grade of 60


  • SFTY 194  P.A.R.T. Assault Response
  • You will participate in professional assault response training to provide you with defensive and preventive skills.

    1.0 Credit Units
    12.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning


  • SPCR 100  Transfers, Lifts and Repositioning (TLR)
  • You will participate in activities to move and position clients/objects in health care settings using minimal physical effort and maximizing the use of mechanical aids and equipment. The course focuses on client/caregiver safety. Upon successfully completing the course, you will receive a Transfers, Lifts and Repositioning (TLR) certificate from Saskatchewan Association of Health Organizations (SAHO).

    1.0 Credit Units
    8.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning


  • SPCR 180  Safe Environment
  • You will learn how to promote client independence in a safe, comfortable and pleasant environment. You will study fire safety, emergency response, WHMIS, household cleaning and laundry.

    1.0 Credit Units
    15.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time


  • SPCR 182  Personal Care
  • You will have the opportunity to learn the theory and practice the skills needed to assist clients in meeting personal care needs. You will study infection control, body mechanics, bed making, grooming and dressing, oral care, skin care, how to turn and position clients, range-of-motion exercises, specimen collection, simple treatments, assisting clients with medication, and determining temperature, pulse and respiration.


    5.0 Credit Units
    75.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   NEPS 115    NURS 161   


  • SPCR 192  Personal Competence
  • Your studies will focus on the goals and philosophy of home care and long-term care. You will learn how these goals are reflected in the activities of the agency and on their role as a caregiver. The course content includes organizational and team structure, personal health, employability skills, client teaching, abuse and ethics.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   NEPS 113   


    Semester 2

  • COMM 197  Communications Skills
  • You will discuss and practice attending behaviours, empathy, respect, concreteness and summarization, and genuineness.

    1.0 Credit Units
    19.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Lecture/Lab, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   COMM 160    COMM 293    NEPS 112    NURS 163   


  • DEMC 280  Dementia - Family Care
  • You will learn how people with dementia are assessed and how to intervene in emergency situations. You will discuss environments and issues related to special care placement and the impact dementia has on families. The course content includes current research and ethics related to dementia.


    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   NEPS 116   


  • HUMD 187  Human Growth and Development
  • You will learn the physical, social, intellectual and emotional aspects of human growth and development from infancy to old age. While the course content focuses on the older age group, the information includes working effectively with all age groups within a family setting.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   NEPS 216   


  • NUTR 198  Nutrition
  • You will learn normal nutritional requirements based on Eating Well with Canada¿s Food Guide. The course content includes meal planning, purchasing, preparing and serving meals, special diets, fluid intake, and assisting clients to eat.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time


  • PRAC 199  Final Practicum
  • You will apply theory and skills in a home care setting.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Work Experience -Individual, Work Experience - Group

    Prerequisites:
    COMM 291 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMM 197 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMM 198 Minimum Grade of 60 and NUTR 198 Minimum Grade of 60 and HUMD 187 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPCR 184 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPCR 284 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPCR 285 Minimum Grade of 60 and DEMC 183 Minimum Grade of 60 and DEMC 280 Minimum Grade of 60 and SANT 181 Minimum Grade of 60 and SFTY 194 Minimum Grade of 60 and PRAC 101 Minimum Grade of P and PRAC 197 Minimum Grade of P


  • PRAC 206  Final Practicum
  • You will apply theory and skills in a special-care setting.

    6.0 Credit Units
    90.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Work Experience -Individual, Work Experience - Group

    Equivalent Course(s):   CLIN 187   

    Prerequisites:
    COMM 291 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMM 197 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMM 198 Minimum Grade of 60 and NUTR 198 Minimum Grade of 60 and HUMD 187 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPCR 184 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPCR 284 Minimum Grade of 60 and SPCR 285 Minimum Grade of 60 and DEMC 183 Minimum Grade of 60 and DEMC 280 Minimum Grade of 60 and SANT 181 Minimum Grade of 60 and SFTY 194 Minimum Grade of 60 and PRAC 101 Minimum Grade of P and PRAC 197 Minimum Grade of P


  • SANT 181  Food Safe Level 1
  • You will learn sanitary food handling techniques that reduce the risk of food poisoning. You will receive a Food Safe certificate from the Department of Health provided you receive a grade of 70% or higher.

    1.0 Credit Units
    9.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Correspondence

    Equivalent Course(s):   SFTY 111   


  • SPCR 184  Post Acute Care
  • You will acquire the theory and develop the skills needed to help clients meet their needs in the post-acute care phase. This may include surgery or other recent illnesses your clients may experience.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   NEPS 212   


  • SPCR 284  Special Needs 1
  • Your studies will cover the basic needs and interventions of clients with disruptions in their sensory organs, body systems (e.g. cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, neurological and endocrine) and body functions (e.g. genital-urinary and gastro-intestinal).

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   NEPS 291   


  • SPCR 285  Special Needs 2
  • Your studies will cover the basic needs and intervention for clients with infectious process, cancer, altered mental abilities, disruption in mental health, alcohol dependency and drug dependency. You will also cover the basic needs and intervention for clients in palliative care.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time

    Equivalent Course(s):   NEPS 293   



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