Personal Support Worker - Distance Education
Overview
Become a valued member of the ever-evolving health care field in Canada as a Personal Support Worker who is in high demand in long-term care facilities, retirement homes, home care settings, and hospitals.
The Personal Support Worker (PSWT) program is a flexible six-month distance education program designed to equip students with the essential skills for providing compassionate, high- quality care. Combining 32 online courses, 5 hands-on clinical skill labs (delivered at Lambton in Toronto), and 2 in-field community placements, the program prepares graduates to make an immediate impact in the healthcare sector. With accessible tuition and a focus on practical experience, the PSWT program is ideal for students seeking a dynamic, rewarding, and in- demand career path.
As the health care system in Canada evolves, the demand for Personal Support workers is increasing in long-term care facilities, retirement homes, home care settings and hospitals. Through theory classes and experiential learning opportunities, including simulation and clinical placements, students will 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.
Information for Temporary Residents: PSWT is a distance education program which can be completed in six months. Applicants are responsible for ensuring they are eligible to study and work in Canada before enrolling in the PSWT program. Please consult with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or an authorized immigration consultant should you have any questions about your eligibility. Applicants are responsible for purchasing their own health insurance for time spent in Canada. The PSWT program is not eligible for the post- graduation work permit (PGWP) program.
Admission Requirements
O.S.S.D. or equivalent with:
- Grade 12 English C or U
Program Delivery
This program is primarily delivered online but includes a mandatory clinical placement component conducted within Canada. International students and temporary residents must ensure they are eligible to study in Canada before enrolling. Additionally, international students and temporary residents are responsible for purchasing their own travel health insurance for time spent in Canada.
Costs
- Term 1 $4,500.00
Total Cost of Program
Tuition fees are estimates and are subject to change each academic year. Fees do not include books (unless specifically noted), supplies or living costs.
Lambton College reserves the right to alter information including admission requirements and to cancel at any time a program or course; to change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies or changes in the job market; to change the pathways third-party certification bodies; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations or over-acceptance of offers of admission. In the event Lambton College exercises such a right, Lambton College’s sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to Lambton College.
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.
Courses
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.
Adhere to Clients' and Families' Rights
This online, competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to client and family rights as they pertain to legislation, including the 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. 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.
Build Therapeutic Relationships with Clients, Families, and 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.
Use Personal Protective Equipment
This online 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.
Measure and Monitor Vital Signs
This online 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.
Use Observation and Documentation Skills
This online competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to essential information about the communication process, specifically for Personal Support Workers (PSWs) to apply in the healthcare environment. Targeted at those currently working in the field, the course includes a workplace lab component. Effective communication is one of the most crucial skills a PSW can develop to provide safe, individualized care to clients. In this Micro-credential, the theory of communication skills will be explored, with frequent references to the chapter on "Interpersonal Communication" from Mosby's Canadian Textbook for the Support Worker.
Palliative Care
This course, completed through St. Joseph's Healthcare, is a study of the client and the role of the Personal Support Worker in palliative care. This course will provide the successful student with the Fundamentals of Palliative Care equivalency certificate. The Fundamentals of Palliative Care is an introductory education program based on foundational concepts. This is a free course that provides information on how to register with St. Joseph's Healthcare, and how to upload your proof of completion.
Clinical Skills Lab I (In-Person)
This course will consist of four hours of practical experience in a Lab practicum. The student will demonstrate concepts of compassionate, client centered care as they learn the skills that are needed to safely support individuals with their activities of daily living needs in a facility and or community setting. Students will master the skills to safely assist individuals with positioning, activity, exercise, mobility, hygiene, and grooming, assisting with feeding, elimination, medications, and household management. Students will practice measuring temperature, radial pulse, respiratory count, oxygen saturation and electronic blood pressure. Students will have the opportunity to utilize skills in the community simulation environment. Infection control measures will be threaded throughout each skill learned.
Provide Culturally Sensitive Care for Families
This online, competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to 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.
Handle Transfers, Falls, Ambulation, and Safety
This online 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.
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 Eating using Adaptive Aids
This online, competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the importance of varying health conditions and how these impact 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.
Support Clients with Special Senses
This online, competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to 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 medications to treat these conditions and strategies to support clients.
Practice and Perform Good Hygiene
This online 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.
Recognize and Report Signs of Abuse or Neglect
This online, competency-based Micro-credential is designed to aid learners in 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 and Families with Mental Illness
This online, competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to mental health, mental illnesses, and supportive strategies to better care for and support clients with mental illness. You will also explore the history of mental illness and the different treatment types used in asylums and institutions. Additionally, you will learn about stress levels and critical approaches to avoid job burnout and the negative impact on your clients.
Clinical Skills Lab 2 (In-Person)
This course will consist of four hours of practical experience in a Lab practicum. The student will demonstrate concepts of compassionate, client centered care as they learn the skills that are needed to safely support individuals with their activities of daily living needs in a facility and or community setting. Students will master the skills to safely assist individuals with positioning, activity, exercise, mobility, hygiene, and grooming, assisting with feeding, elimination, medications, and household management. Students will practice measuring temperature, radial pulse, respiratory count, oxygen saturation and electronic blood pressure. Students will have the opportunity to utilize skills in the community simulation environment. Infection control measures will be threaded throughout each skill learned.
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 the impacts of aging. You will learn how the nervous system coordinates the body 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 Dementia and Delirium
This online, competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to 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 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 treatments/strategies to support clients with these conditions.
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 individuals age. 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 to 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 their functions. 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 Genital- Urinary Conditions
This online, competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the reproductive system. You will learn the functions of male and female, internal and externa systems, to ensure that clients receive appropriate care for genital-urinary health conditions. You will also learn about the female and male reproductive system and changes associated with aging. 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 Immune Related Conditions
This online competency based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to the immune system's various functions and structures and common invaders that attack the immune system. You will also explore the difference between colds and influenza and how immunity works to keep the body healthy and protected. Lastly, you will explore the different autoimmune disorders and the supportive strategies that care for clients with these disorders.
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.
Clinical Skills Lab 3 (In-Person)
This course will consist of four hours of practical experience in a Lab practicum. The student will demonstrate concepts of compassionate, client centered care as they learn the skills that are needed to safely support individuals with their activities of daily living needs in a facility and or community setting. Students will master the skills to safely assist individuals with positioning, activity, exercise, mobility, hygiene, and grooming, assisting with feeding, elimination, medications, and household management. Students will practice measuring temperature, radial pulse, respiratory count, oxygen saturation and electronic blood pressure. Students will have the opportunity to utilize skills in the community simulation environment. Infection control measures will be threaded throughout each skill learned.
Support Clients with Respiratory Conditions
This online, competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to 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 Skin 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 Families with Children with Developmental Disorders
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.
Support New Mothers and 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.
Assist with Medication Administration
This online 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.
Create a PSW Focused Professional Cover Letter and Resume
This online competency-based Micro-credential is designed to introduce learners to creating cover letters, resumes, and portfolios. Learners will learn the various types of resumes and the "do's and "don'ts" for writing a successful cover letter and resume. Learners will also learn how to tailor their cover letter to job posting requirements and qualifications. Learners will apply their knowledge by creating a cover letter and resume suited for the Personal Support Worker profession.
Clinical Skills Lab 4 (In-Person)
This course will consist of four hours of practical experience in a Lab practicum. The student will demonstrate concepts of compassionate, client centered care as they learn the skills that are needed to safely support individuals with their activities of daily living needs in a facility and or community setting. Students will master the skills to safely assist individuals with positioning, activity, exercise, mobility, hygiene, and grooming, assisting with feeding, elimination, medications, and household management. Students will practice measuring temperature, radial pulse, respiratory count, oxygen saturation and electronic blood pressure. Students will have the opportunity to utilize skills in the community simulation environment. Infection control measures will be threaded throughout each skill learned.
Clinical Practice
Students must contact onlineplacements@lambtoncollege.ca at least 6 months in advance of their desired placement start date. Students will obtain placement experience in a long-term care home. Emphasis is placed on assisting clients to perform their activities of daily living and enhancement of quality of life. This experience is under the supervision of a clinical instructor.
Clinical Skills Lab 5 (In-Person)
This course will consist of four hours of practical experience in a Lab practicum. The student will demonstrate concepts of compassionate, client centered care as they learn the skills that are needed to safely support individuals with their activities of daily living needs in a facility and or community setting. Students will master the skills to safely assist individuals with positioning, activity, exercise, mobility, hygiene, and grooming, assisting with feeding, elimination, medications, and household management. Students will practice measuring temperature, radial pulse, respiratory count, oxygen saturation and electronic blood pressure. Students will have the opportunity to utilize skills in the community simulation environment. Infection control measures will be threaded throughout each skill learned.
Pre-Graduate Clinical
Students must contact onlineplacements@lambtoncollege.ca at least 6 months in advance of their desired placement start date. This is a placement course that includes a preceptor experience. Preceptors are expert RN/RPN's who are assigned to a student on a one-to-one basis to facilitate and oversee the student's transition into their new role as independent novice practitioners.
Have Questions?
If you have any questions about this distance education program, the courses offered, the application process, or any other questions, please contact international@lambtoncollege.ca
Contact
Centre for Global Engagement
LAMBTON COLLEGE SARNIA
1457 London Road
Sarnia ON N7S 6K4
Placement
Vaccinations & Police Record Checks
Students considering this program should be aware that there may be field and clinical placement requirements. Many placements require students have proof of certain vaccinations and police record checks.
More Information
Skill Demands
This program demands a high level of physical fitness. Good general health is required including the ability to lift and manipulate heavy weight. Some students with disabilities may require academic accommodation to equalize opportunities to meet the academic demands of a course or a program.