During the Continuing Care Assistant Certificate program, you get the unique opportunity to put academic theory into practice in real workplace settings through skills placements and work placements.

Skills Placements

Practice the skills you have learned in class in weeks 1 to 18. You will be supervised by one of the CCA instructors (RNs or LPNs) while you are in the long-term care facilities.

Work Placements

Work closely with mentors who are already CCAs. You do the work of a CCA with your mentor's help and guidance. 

Introduction to the CCA Program and Healthcare

An introduction to the CCA program, Canadian healthcare sector, framework governing delivery care, and various healthcare services and providers in Nova Scotia.

CCA Personal and Professional Development

An introduction to the role of a CCA through the social philosophy of care, CCA Scope of Practice, professional responsibilities, and professional qualities and behaviours of a CCA.

Communication in the Care Setting

Learn how to understand effective interpersonal communication practices for CCAs, including different types of professional relationships and appropriate forms of interpersonal communication in the care setting.

Documentation and Technology in the Care Setting

Learn about the various forms of written communication required of CCAs and the appropriate uses of technology by CCAs inside and outside of care settings.

Body Structure: Function and Care Implications

Develop a basic understanding of the normal structure and function of the body with an introduction to common health issues and implications for care.

Safe Handling and Mobility 

Overview of the principles of body movement and safety during direct and indirect assistance activities, and how to position and transfer individuals.

Care Setting Management

Develop skills including basic safety, cleanliness, organization, task prioritization, and time management that are required in a care setting.

Growth and Development

Learn the principles of growth and development and how to apply them in order to meet patients' needs, including physical, emotional, and social development across the life span. 

Personal Care

Through a person-centered approach to care, learn how to implement respectful, safe, and effective personal care to individuals across varied stages of the life cycle.

Environmental Safety 

Develop an understanding of the strategies, rules, regulations, and protocols that are important to implement to minimize workplace risk, such as infection control.

Nutrition and Meal Preparation

Explore nutrition and learn about the role a CCA takes in meeting the dietary individuals of all ages, as well as how to plan, serve, and prepare basic meals.

Mental Health and Social Wellbeing 

Learn to recognize and support individuals that are experiencing mental health issues and various types of neglect, as well as strategies on how to maintain health and social wellbeing.

Medication

An introduction to commonly used medications and basic principles of pharmacology in order to competently apply medicated topical creams and ointments, and administer drops.