Personal Support Worker
The Personal Support Worker micro-credential pathway prepares graduates to provide care and assistance to clients of any age who have defined health care needs, including help with their daily living activities. Students learn to make a difference in clients' lives by alleviating loneliness, providing empathy, ensuring comfort, encouraging independence, and promoting self respect in all health care settings.
The program is made up of 36 micro-credential learning units (including placements) and seven micro-certificates. Students have the choice to take individual learning units or to complete a number of learning units as required for each micro-certificate. If a student completes all 36 micro-credential learning units (including placements) they do meet the requirements for a Personal Support Worker Ontario College Certificate.
Prior Learning
Students with previous education or related experience can apply for Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR) to accelerate their path to completion by receiving credit for what they already know.
This pathway allows students to complete:
- 36 micro-credential learning units
- 7 micro-certificates
- 1 Ontario College Certificate - Upon successful completion of all 36 learning units (including placements) students are eligible to apply to graduate from the Personal Support Worker Ontario College Certificate program - admission requirements must be met
Admission Requirements
O.S.S.D. or equivalent with:
- Grade 12 English C or U
Mature Student Assessment for this program is available in the subject of English for the purpose of demonstrating proficiency in this required admission subject. For all other admission requirements, applicants must complete the required course(s) as listed above. For more information, please contact counselling@lambtoncollege.ca. Review the Mature Student Admission process.
Academic admission requirements can be obtained through Academic Upgrading and the Pre-Programs at Lambton College.
When Admission Requirements Apply
The admission requirements only apply to students planning on completing the Ontario College Certificate. Students can complete the micro-credential learning units and micro-certificates without meeting the admission requirements.
Technology Requirements
In order to keep pace with the requirements of each and every course in your program, Lambton College requires that each student have access to a laptop while studying at our college.
Earn a Micro-Certificate
Below is a list of Micro-Certificates that are part of the Personal Support Worker Pathway. You can complete a micro-certificate by completing the courses included in that grouping.
You can also take individual courses without committing to an entire micro-certificate.
List of Micro-Certificates
Use Personal Protective Equipment
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners on hand hygiene, infection control and the various personal protective equipment within the healthcare system. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will learn about the types of micro-organisms that contribute to infections and the necessary routine precautions to prevent and enhance infection control. Lastly, you will explore when to use appropriate personal protective equipment to keep you and others safe.
Practice and Perform Good Hygiene
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to good hygiene practices and techniques that are required within the healthcare profession, but more importantly, as a Personal Support Worker. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will learn about personal hygiene and how to care for clients with bathing, daily care, and other related health conditions including ileostomies.
Handle Transfers, Falls, Ambulation, and Safety
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners on how to position clients effectively and use safety measures and guidelines when completing this task. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will also explore the different positioning types to appropriately care for and support your clients and body mechanics to ensure Personal Support Workers remain safe. Additionally, you will explore the importance of good posture, especially when moving or lifting heavy objects to prevent back and other musculoskeletal injuries. You will also learn about the effects of bed rest on clients' bodies and how to support clients who develop health conditions from prolonged bed rest. You will learn how to prevent falls and care for and support clients who have fallen and how to safely move clients to a chair to ensure they are protected. Lastly, you will explore the purpose of home management and cleaning guidelines to ensure clients remain safe within their homes.
Support Clients with Eating using Adaptive Aids
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of varying health conditions and how these impacts adequate nutrition intake in the aging population. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will explore the various diets such as regular, liquid, therapeutic and texture modified diets to support residents with varying health conditions. You will learn about how to help residents in the dining area to encourage nutrition and feeding intake. Lastly, you will explore some of the common concerns among the aging population regarding feeding and nutrition.
Measure and Monitor Vital Signs
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of performing, measuring and monitoring vital signs. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will discover when vital signs are taken and appropriate practices and techniques to measure and record vital signs accurately. Additionally, you will learn about the various instruments used to perform and measure vitals and appropriately chart this information.
Assist with Medication Administration
*** Please note this course is focused on the traditional role of PSW's in medical administration *** This hybrid competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the PSW role in assisting with medication administration. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. Learners will explore the unique functions of the health care team and their responsibilities in administering medication, the components of the prescription, and the effect of medications in the body. Learners will be introduced to the pharmacology of medications. Additionally, learners will learn about monitoring parameters for the PSW and discuss specific ways to support clients receiving medications. Lastly, learners will explore the process of testing a client's blood sugar as well.
Use Observation & Documentation Skills
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to information related to the communication process so that the Personal Support Worker (PSWs) may apply in the health care environment. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. Effective communication is one of the most important skills that a PSW can develop in order to provide safe individualized care to the clients he or she interacts with. In this Micro-credential, the theory of communication skills will be explored. Mosby's Canadian textbook for the Support Worker chapter "Interpersonal Communication will be referenced to throughout this Micro-credential.
Use Personal Protective Equipment
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners on hand hygiene, infection control and the various personal protective equipment within the healthcare system. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will learn about the types of micro-organisms that contribute to infections and the necessary routine precautions to prevent and enhance infection control. Lastly, you will explore when to use appropriate personal protective equipment to keep you and others safe.
Practice & Perform Good Hygiene
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to good hygiene practices and techniques that are required within the healthcare profession, but more importantly, as a Personal Support Worker. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will learn about personal hygiene and how to care for clients with bathing, daily care, and other related health conditions including ileostomies.
Handle Transfers, Falls, Ambulation & Safety
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners on how to position clients effectively and use safety measures and guidelines when completing this task. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will also explore the different positioning types to appropriately care for and support your clients and body mechanics to ensure Personal Support Workers remain safe. Additionally, you will explore the importance of good posture, especially when moving or lifting heavy objects to prevent back and other musculoskeletal injuries. You will also learn about the effects of bed rest on clients' bodies and how to support clients who develop health conditions from prolonged bed rest. You will learn how to prevent falls and care for and support clients who have fallen and how to safely move clients to a chair to ensure they are protected. Lastly, you will explore the purpose of home management and cleaning guidelines to ensure clients remain safe within their homes.
Support Clients with Eating using Adaptive Aids
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of varying health conditions and how these impacts adequate nutrition intake in the aging population. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will explore the various diets such as regular, liquid, therapeutic and texture modified diets to support residents with varying health conditions. You will learn about how to help residents in the dining area to encourage nutrition and feeding intake. Lastly, you will explore some of the common concerns among the aging population regarding feeding and nutrition.
Measure & Monitor Vital Signs
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of performing, measuring and monitoring vital signs. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will discover when vital signs are taken and appropriate practices and techniques to measure and record vital signs accurately. Additionally, you will learn about the various instruments used to perform and measure vitals and appropriately chart this information.
Assist with Medication Administration
*** Please note this course is focused on the traditional role of PSW's in medical administration *** This hybrid competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the PSW role in assisting with medication administration. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. Learners will explore the unique functions of the health care team and their responsibilities in administering medication, the components of the prescription, and the effect of medications in the body. Learners will be introduced to the pharmacology of medications. Additionally, learners will learn about monitoring parameters for the PSW and discuss specific ways to support clients receiving medications. Lastly, learners will explore the process of testing a client's blood sugar as well.
Practice within the Role of the Personal Support Worker
This online competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the role of a Personal Support Worker and the responsibilities and scope of practice that he or she must adhere to as part of this important profession. Students will learn about client directed care and the importance of working collaboratively with families and other health care professionals to ensure that clients receive quality individualized care and support.
Use Observation & Documentation Skills
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to information related to the communication process so that the Personal Support Worker (PSWs) may apply in the health care environment. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. Effective communication is one of the most important skills that a PSW can develop in order to provide safe individualized care to the clients he or she interacts with. In this Micro-credential, the theory of communication skills will be explored. Mosby's Canadian textbook for the Support Worker chapter "Interpersonal Communication will be referenced to throughout this Micro-credential.
Promote Wellness for Clients with Disabilities
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of health and wellness and the five dimensions of health to support individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities. You will also explore how conditions and disabilities can impact an individual's life, particularly the five dimensions of health.
Support Clients with Dementia and Delirium
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners about the various age-related brain changes that occur in elderly clients. You will learn about the signs and symptoms of the following conditions, including disorientation, delirium, and dementia. Additionally, you will learn about the stages that individuals experience when diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Support Clients and Families with Mental Illness
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners about the various defence mechanisms that individuals use to cope with underlying issues. You will also explore the history of mental illness and the different treatment types used in asylums and institutions. Additionally, you will explore mental health and the types of mental illnesses and treatments that exist today. As a Personal Support Worker, you also learn about the various supportive strategies you will use to better care and support your clients with mental illness. Lastly, you will learn about stress levels and critical approaches to avoid job burnout and the negative impact on your clients.
Promote Health for Clients with Varying Ages
This online competency-based micro-credential is designed to introduce you to the various developmental theories and health promotion. You will explore different theorists such as Freud and Erikson, and the different developmental stages individuals experience throughout the lifecycle. Additionally, you will learn about fetal development, pregnancy, and the importance of growth at all stages of life.
Support Families with Children with Developmental Disabilities
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to varying types of developmental disorders and childhood illnesses. You will learn about these disorders and the various signs and symptoms and causes of these conditions. Additionally, you will explore the supportive strategies and practices used to care for and support individuals with these disorders and illnesses.
Support Older Adults with Rehabilitation
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the various myths of aging and critical terms and definitions discussed in aging and rehabilitation. You will also learn about common concerns and stressors that many aging adults experience and the various ways that you, as a Personal Support Worker, can assist them with this journey. You will also explore the different aging theories and the role of Personal Support Workers, healthcare teams, and family members with supporting clients and loved ones who are aging and need restorative care.
Adhere to Professionalism in PSW
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the professional approach as a member of the Health Care Team is vital. The Personal Support Worker is a major component of the health care system. Even though it is the fourth fastest growing sector in health care, the roles and value of the Personal Support Worker are not well understood. If we want the rest of the health care system to understand our role and value, we must show, by our actions that we are professionals. In this module we will explore Professionalism.
Use Observation & Documentation Skills
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to information related to the communication process so that the Personal Support Worker (PSWs) may apply in the health care environment. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. Effective communication is one of the most important skills that a PSW can develop in order to provide safe individualized care to the clients he or she interacts with. In this Micro-credential, the theory of communication skills will be explored. Mosby's Canadian textbook for the Support Worker chapter "Interpersonal Communication will be referenced to throughout this Micro-credential.
Use Personal Protective Equipment
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners on hand hygiene, infection control and the various personal protective equipment within the healthcare system. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will learn about the types of micro-organisms that contribute to infections and the necessary routine precautions to prevent and enhance infection control. Lastly, you will explore when to use appropriate personal protective equipment to keep you and others safe.
Practice & Perform Good Hygiene
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to good hygiene practices and techniques that are required within the healthcare profession, but more importantly, as a Personal Support Worker. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will learn about personal hygiene and how to care for clients with bathing, daily care, and other related health conditions including ileostomies.
Measure & Monitor Vital Signs
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of performing, measuring and monitoring vital signs. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will discover when vital signs are taken and appropriate practices and techniques to measure and record vital signs accurately. Additionally, you will learn about the various instruments used to perform and measure vitals and appropriately chart this information.
Assist with Medication Administration
*** Please note this course is focused on the traditional role of PSW's in medical administration *** This hybrid competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the PSW role in assisting with medication administration. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. Learners will explore the unique functions of the health care team and their responsibilities in administering medication, the components of the prescription, and the effect of medications in the body. Learners will be introduced to the pharmacology of medications. Additionally, learners will learn about monitoring parameters for the PSW and discuss specific ways to support clients receiving medications. Lastly, learners will explore the process of testing a client's blood sugar as well.
Use Observation & Documentation Skills
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to information related to the communication process so that the Personal Support Worker (PSWs) may apply in the health care environment. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. Effective communication is one of the most important skills that a PSW can develop in order to provide safe individualized care to the clients he or she interacts with. In this Micro-credential, the theory of communication skills will be explored. Mosby's Canadian textbook for the Support Worker chapter "Interpersonal Communication will be referenced to throughout this Micro-credential.
Measure & Monitor Vital Signs
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of performing, measuring and monitoring vital signs. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will discover when vital signs are taken and appropriate practices and techniques to measure and record vital signs accurately. Additionally, you will learn about the various instruments used to perform and measure vitals and appropriately chart this information.
Apply the Code of Ethics for Personal Support Workers
This online competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to various principles and ethics critical within the Personal Support Worker profession. Students will learn about the differences between ethical and moral dilemmas and use the code of ethics for Personal Support Workers to guide them in making informed decisions that will meet the needs and protection of their clients. Students will apply their knowledge by completing various case scenario activities and assessments that will rely on primary health care ethics to support their decisions.
Adhere to Clients' & Families' Rights
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners about your client and family rights as it pertains to various legislation including Canadian Human Rights Act and Ontario's Resident's Bill of Rights. Additionally, you will learn about informed consent and the importance of autonomy, dignity, privacy and confidentiality. This module also explores legal considerations such as negligence and malpractice and your role and rights as a Personal Support Worker. You will also learn about the Care Planning Process and the importance of reporting and charting.
Adhere to Professionalism in PSW
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the professional approach as a member of the Health Care Team is vital. The Personal Support Worker is a major component of the health care system. Even though it is the fourth fastest growing sector in health care, the roles and value of the Personal Support Worker are not well understood. If we want the rest of the health care system to understand our role and value, we must show, by our actions that we are professionals. In this module we will explore Professionalism.
Recognize & Report Signs of Abuse or Neglect
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners about the importance of recognizing and reporting various types of abuse in children, elders, and healthcare workers. You will explore the contributing factors that place vulnerable individuals at risk for abuse, and the signs and symptoms that are sometimes evident when abuse is present. Lastly, you will learn about your role as a Personal Support Worker for recognizing and reporting abuse.
Support Clients wwith Eating using Adaptive Aids
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of varying health conditions and how these impacts adequate nutrition intake in the aging population. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will explore the various diets such as regular, liquid, therapeutic and texture modified diets to support residents with varying health conditions. You will learn about how to help residents in the dining area to encourage nutrition and feeding intake. Lastly, you will explore some of the common concerns among the aging population regarding feeding and nutrition.
Measure & Monitor Vital Signs
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of performing, measuring and monitoring vital signs. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will discover when vital signs are taken and appropriate practices and techniques to measure and record vital signs accurately. Additionally, you will learn about the various instruments used to perform and measure vitals and appropriately chart this information.
Assist with Medication Administration
*** Please note this course is focused on the traditional role of PSW's in medical administration *** This hybrid competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the PSW role in assisting with medication administration. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. Learners will explore the unique functions of the health care team and their responsibilities in administering medication, the components of the prescription, and the effect of medications in the body. Learners will be introduced to the pharmacology of medications. Additionally, learners will learn about monitoring parameters for the PSW and discuss specific ways to support clients receiving medications. Lastly, learners will explore the process of testing a client's blood sugar as well.
Practice within the Role of the Personal Support Worker
This online competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the role of a Personal Support Worker and the responsibilities and scope of practice that he or she must adhere to as part of this important profession. Students will learn about client directed care and the importance of working collaboratively with families and other health care professionals to ensure that clients receive quality individualized care and support.
Build Therapeutic Relationships with Clients, Families & the Healthcare Team
This online competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the various ways of establishing healthy and positive relationships with their clients, families and the healthcare team. Learners will explore the differences between personal and professional relationships, and the importance of establishing healthy boundaries to support the development of therapeutic relationships. Learners will apply their knowledge by completing various case scenario activities and assessments to establish and maintain healthy relationships with clients, families and other Personal Support Workers.
Apply the Code of Ethics for Personal Support Workers
This online competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to various principles and ethics critical within the Personal Support Worker profession. Students will learn about the differences between ethical and moral dilemmas and use the code of ethics for Personal Support Workers to guide them in making informed decisions that will meet the needs and protection of their clients. Students will apply their knowledge by completing various case scenario activities and assessments that will rely on primary health care ethics to support their decisions.
Adhere to Clients' & Families' Rights
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners about your client and family rights as it pertains to various legislation including Canadian Human Rights Act and Ontario's Resident's Bill of Rights. Additionally, you will learn about informed consent and the importance of autonomy, dignity, privacy and confidentiality. This module also explores legal considerations such as negligence and malpractice and your role and rights as a Personal Support Worker. You will also learn about the Care Planning Process and the importance of reporting and charting.
Provide Culturally Sensitive Care for Families
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners on how to provide culturally sensitive care for clients and families from various cultures, ethnicities and religions. Additionally, you will explore the various ways to increase your cultural competence so that you can provide support and build relationships with clients from diverse groups of people. When PSWs increase their cultural competence, they are more likely to establish relationships with their clients that respect their clients' values, customs, and practices.
Promote Health for Clients with Varying Ages
This online competency-based micro-credential is designed to introduce you to the various developmental theories and health promotion. You will explore different theorists such as Freud and Erikson, and the different developmental stages individuals experience throughout the lifecycle. Additionally, you will learn about fetal development, pregnancy, and the importance of growth at all stages of life.
Support New Mothers & Infants
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the various supportive strategies that are needed to care for new mothers and their newborns. Additionally, learners will learn about the changes in fetal development and prenatal stages to ensure that they are equipped to provide adequate care for this group of clients. Lastly, this module will look at a wide range of post-partum health conditions that are commonly found in new mothers and their infants. The goal is to ensure that you have the strategies to support your clients to ensure their healthcare needs are met.
Support Families with Children with Developmental Disabilities
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to varying types of developmental disorders and childhood illnesses. You will learn about these disorders and the various signs and symptoms and causes of these conditions. Additionally, you will explore the supportive strategies and practices used to care for and support individuals with these disorders and illnesses.
Adhere to Professionalism in PSW
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the professional approach as a member of the Health Care Team is vital. The Personal Support Worker is a major component of the health care system. Even though it is the fourth fastest growing sector in health care, the roles and value of the Personal Support Worker are not well understood. If we want the rest of the health care system to understand our role and value, we must show, by our actions that we are professionals. In this module we will explore Professionalism.
Support Clients with Skin Health Conditions
This online competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of providing client centered care and support to prevent wounds and various skin health conditions. You will learn about skin tears, pressure ulcers and pressure point injuries that are often seen in the individuals you will be supporting as a Person Support Worker. The goal is to prevent these wounds and skin conditions from worsening by implementing various preventative measures. We will be exploring these preventive measures in this Micro-credential.
Support Clients with Musculo-Skeletal Conditions
This online competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce you to the major structures and functions of the musculoskeletal system. Additionally, you will explore the changes that occur within the musculoskeletal system as individual ages. Some common musculoskeletal system health conditions that will be reviewed include Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Fractured hips and Osteoporosis. Lastly, you will explore The Personal Support Worker's role in supporting clients with these conditions.
Support Clients with Gastrointestinal Conditions
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners about the gastrointestinal system and the functions of the digestive system. You will learn about the structure and organs that make up the digestive system and its functions in this system. Additionally, you will explore the changes that the digestive system experiences as individuals age and the various digestive health conditions such as Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. You will also learn about the signs and symptoms of these different digestive health conditions and the Personal Support Worker's role in supporting clients with these conditions. You will learn about colon cancer and how to care for clients who had a colostomy and an ostomy. Lastly, you will explore some gastric disorders and the treatment needed to care for clients with these conditions.
Support Clients with Cardiovascular Conditions
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the functions and composition of blood and the different blood types. You will also learn about the five groups of blood vessels and their role within the body. You will explore various cardiovascular health conditions and the various treatments and supportive strategies that you will use to support clients with these conditions as a Personal Support Worker.
Support Clients with Respiratory Conditions
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners about the respiratory system's function and structure so that you can provide adequate care and support for clients with varying respiratory health-related conditions. You will also learn about respiratory physiology and the aging changes that occur in the respiratory system. Lastly, you will explore common respiratory health conditions and the various treatments available to treat these diseases.
Support Clients with Genital-Urinary Conditions
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners about the reproductive system of males and females. You will learn the functions of both, including the internal and external parts of males and females, to ensure that clients receive appropriate care for genital-urinary health conditions. You will also learn about the female and male reproductive system the aging changes of the reproductive system. You will explore the urinary system and the various parts of the system. You will discover common diseases associated with genital-urinary health conditions and the various treatment and preventative options available to you as a Personal Support Worker.
Support Clients with Central Nervous System Conditions
This online competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the nervous system's anatomy and physiology and how the ageing process affects the nervous system. You will learn how the nervous system coordinates the entire body system to maintain homeostasis. Some common conditions that affect the nervous system include Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebral Vascular accidents and seizures. The PSW role in supporting client's experiencing these conditions will be highlighted throughout.
Support Clients with Endocrine Conditions
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the endocrine system's structure and the various glands and hormones. You will also explore aging and the impact it has on the endocrine system. You will learn about the types of diabetes and the various signs and symptoms of this disease, and the treatment and intervention strategies used to support this condition. You will also learn about nutrition for clients with diabetes and how to measure and monitor clients' blood glucose and blood sugar count. Lastly, you will learn about hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia and the types of supports needed to care for clients with these conditions.
Support Clients with Special Senses
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners about the five senses, including the eye and ear structure. You will explore the process for both vision and hearing and the varying diseases associated with vision and hearing loss. You will learn about the types of medications to treat these conditions and strategies to support clients with these conditions.
Support Clients with Immune Related Conditions
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to information related to the communication process so that the Personal Support Worker (PSWs) may apply in the health care environment. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. Effective communication is one of the most important skills that a PSW can develop in order to provide safe individualized care to the clients he or she interacts with. In this Micro-credential, the theory of communication skills will be explored. Mosby's Canadian textbook for the Support Worker chapter "Interpersonal Communication will be referenced to throughout this Micro-credential.
Support Clients wwith Eating using Adaptive Aids
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of varying health conditions and how these impacts adequate nutrition intake in the aging population. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will explore the various diets such as regular, liquid, therapeutic and texture modified diets to support residents with varying health conditions. You will learn about how to help residents in the dining area to encourage nutrition and feeding intake. Lastly, you will explore some of the common concerns among the aging population regarding feeding and nutrition.
Measure & Monitor Vital Signs
This hybrid competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of performing, measuring and monitoring vital signs. This course is designed for those currently working in the field and includes a workplace lab component. You will discover when vital signs are taken and appropriate practices and techniques to measure and record vital signs accurately. Additionally, you will learn about the various instruments used to perform and measure vitals and appropriately chart this information.
Promote Wellness for Clients with Disabilities
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of health and wellness and the five dimensions of health to support individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities. You will also explore how conditions and disabilities can impact an individual's life, particularly the five dimensions of health.
Support Families with Children with Developmental Disabilities
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to varying types of developmental disorders and childhood illnesses. You will learn about these disorders and the various signs and symptoms and causes of these conditions. Additionally, you will explore the supportive strategies and practices used to care for and support individuals with these disorders and illnesses.
Support Older Adults with Rehabilitation
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the various myths of aging and critical terms and definitions discussed in aging and rehabilitation. You will also learn about common concerns and stressors that many aging adults experience and the various ways that you, as a Personal Support Worker, can assist them with this journey. You will also explore the different aging theories and the role of Personal Support Workers, healthcare teams, and family members with supporting clients and loved ones who are aging and need restorative care.
Learning Units
You aren't required to take a full grouping of courses if you don't intend to complete a Micro-Certificate.
If you are just interested in completing individual courses that are part of the Personal Support Worker Pathway, this is definitely an option.
Want to complete the Personal Support Worker Ontario College Certificate?
If your overall goal is to complete the Personal Support Worker Ontario College Certificate, you will need to complete all PSWMC micro-credential courses and you will also need to complete:
- PSW-2003 Palliative Care
- Community Placement
- Clinical Placement
- One General Education Elective