This course provides an introduction to the role of the HCA within the Province of British Columbia health care system. Students are introduced to the healthcare team and the roles and functions of HCA within the team. There will also be opportunities to develop self-reflective skills.

This course focuses on developing self-awareness, increased understanding of others and effective interpersonal communication skills. Students will be encouraged to become more aware of the impact of their own communication choices and patterns and have the opportunity to develop and use communication techniques to demonstrate personal awareness, respect and active listening.

This course introduces students to a holistic concept of health and the components of a health-enhancing lifestyle. Students will be invited to reflect on their own health experiences, recognizing challenges and resources that can affect life choices. Students will be introduced to a model that can be applied to other courses to understand the multi-faceted aspects of health and healing.

This course is an introduction to the normal structure and functions of the human body and changes associated with aging. Students will explore common challenges to health and healing and explore person-centred practices, particularly as they apply to end-of-life care.

Building on other courses related to caregiving, this course allows students to work with individuals experiencing cognitive or mental difficulties. The emphasis in this course is on supporting clients with dementia, recognizing responsive behaviours and identifying person-centred intervention strategies.

This practical course offers students the opportunity to acquire personal care and assistance skills in the role of an HCA. The course is comprised of class and supervised laboratory experiences that assist the student to integrate theory from other courses to develop caregiver skills to maintain and promote the comfort, safety and independence of those in community facilities.

This supervised practice provides students with an opportunity to apply their knowledge in a multi-level or complex care setting. A portion of this clinical experience will be devoted to working with individuals experiencing cognitive difficulties. The opportunity will be provided for students to gain expertise and confidence with the role of the HCA within a continuing care family.

This practical course places in a community setting to help the student become more familiar with the role of the HCA within a Home Support Agency and gain abilities to prepare graduates to assume the role of a Community Health Worker.