Personal Support Worker (Co-op Optional)

Program overview

Become a valued member of the ever-evolving health care field in Canada as a Personal Support Worker (PSW). This program is designed to meet the increasing demand for PSWs in various settings, including long-term care facilities, retirement homes, home care settings, and hospitals. Graduates will be equipped to provide essential care and assistance to clients of all ages with defined health care needs. The program emphasizes the importance of empathy, comfort, and promoting independence in clients' lives. Through a combination of theory classes and experiential learning opportunities, including simulation and clinical placements, students will learn to make a significant difference in the lives of those they care for.

Program structure

The Personal Support Worker program is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a one-year period, with a focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Key features of the program include:

• Program Length: One year, full-time, in-person with placement opportunities.
• Experiential learning through simulation and clinical placements.
• Completion of specialized certificates, including the Fundamentals of Hospice Palliative Care Certificate, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Certificate, and Gentle Persuasive Approaches Certificate.
• Optional co-op placements to enhance real-world experience.

Students will engage in various learning environments, including simulation labs and clinical practice, to ensure they are well-prepared for their roles as Personal Support Workers.

Featured Experiences

The Personal Support Worker program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey:

• Simulation Apartment: A dedicated space where students practice safe client care in a community setting.
• Simulation Lab: Provides a simulated environment for students to learn and practice clinical skills using high-fidelity mannequins.
• Nursing Lab: Focuses on practical aspects of personal care, including vital signs and documentation.
• Clinical Practice: Students gain hands-on experience in long-term care homes, emphasizing the importance of assisting clients with their daily living activities.
• Pre-Graduate Clinical: A five-week clinical course with a preceptor experience to facilitate the transition into independent practice.

Career Options

Graduates of the Personal Support Worker program can pursue a variety of rewarding career opportunities in Canada, including:

• Personal Support Worker: Provide direct care and support to clients in various health care settings, assisting with daily living activities.
• Home Care Aide: Work with clients in their homes, offering personalized care and companionship to enhance their quality of life.
• Long-Term Care Assistant: Support residents in long-term care facilities, ensuring their comfort and well-being.
• Palliative Care Worker: Assist clients and families during end-of-life care, providing emotional support and comfort.
• Community Support Worker: Engage with clients in community settings, helping them access resources and maintain independence.

As the demand for Personal Support Workers continues to grow, graduates can feel confident about their job prospects in this essential field.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.