Arkansas Personal Care Aide - Initial Training

Our collection of courses for the initial training of Arkansas Personal Care Aides is designed to meet the requirements in Rule 007.05.20-003 - Rules For Home and Health Agencies in Arkansas of the Arkansas Administrative Code. Arkansas requires a minimum of 40 hours of training for Personal Care Aide ... Read more

  • 21 courses
  • 24 hours hours
Arkansas Personal Care Aide - Initial Training

Course Description

The Role and Functions of Personal Care Staff course is designed for caregivers to enhance their knowledge and skills in providing personal care to individuals who need assistance due to illness, injury, disability, or aging. The course will delve into the fundamental roles and responsibilities of personal care staff, including ensuring the safety and comfort of residents, assisting with daily activities such as eating, bathing, and mobility, monitoring and reporting changes in health status, and providing emotional support. The course will also shed light on the ethical aspects of caregiving, such as respecting resident privacy and dignity, maintaining professional boundaries as well as communication techniques and burnout prevention.

Course Topics

  • Outline the responsibilities of personal care staff
  • Explain the importance of ensuring resident safety and comfort
  • Discuss how to assist residents with daily activities
  • Barriers to communication and strategies
  • Highlight ethical considerations in caregiving
  • The aging process and how to uphold their quality of life

Course Description

Professionalism in the Healthcare Setting is a comprehensive course designed for caregivers who aim to provide high-quality care to their patients. This course focuses on the essential skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary for maintaining a professional demeanor in a healthcare environment. Through this course, caregivers will learn the importance of ethical conduct, effective communication, teamwork, and cultural competence in delivering care to patients with diverse backgrounds and needs. By developing a strong foundation in professionalism, caregivers will be better equipped to navigate the challenges and complexities of the healthcare setting, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Course Topics

  • Understand the importance of ethical conduct and decision-making
  • Develop effective communication skills for better patient interaction
  • Learn the principles of teamwork and collaboration in healthcare settings
  • Recognize the significance of cultural competence in patient care
  • Explore strategies for managing stress and maintaining work-life balance

Course Description

Patients' Rights is a fundamental aspect of healthcare that focuses on ensuring patients receive fair and respectful treatment while under medical care. As a caregiver, understanding and respecting patients' rights is crucial to providing high-quality care and maintaining strong relationships with patients and their families. This course aims to educate caregivers on the ethical and legal aspects of patients' rights, including informed consent, privacy, confidentiality, autonomy, the right to be free from abuse and neglect, and the right to refuse treatment. By learning about patients' rights, caregivers will be better equipped to advocate for their patients and ensure that they receive the best possible care.

Course Topics

  • Explain the importance of informed consent
  • Discuss privacy and confidentiality in healthcare
  • Understand autonomy and the right to refuse treatment
  • Learn how to prevent abuse and neglect
  • Identify best practices for maintaining positive relationships with patients and their families

Course Description

In this course, you will learn about the various types of communication and what effective communication looks like. Additionally, you will be introduced to communication strategies while working with individuals you may come across in the home health care field.

Course Topics

  • Define communication
  • Compare verbal and nonverbal communication
  • Describe active listening
  • Describe how to communicate with people of different cultures
  • Identify barriers to communication
  • Identify what good communication looks like
  • Describe how to communicate with the healthcare team
  • Describe how to communicate with the cognitively impaired
  • Describe how to communicate with older adults

Course Description

Introduction to Dementia Care is a course designed to provide an understanding of dementia, its various types, and the impact it has on individuals, families, and caregivers. This course is for home health aides who want to gain knowledge about dementia and the strategies that can be used when providing care. The course will help learners understand the challenges faced by people with dementia, as well as the best practices for providing support and care to enhance their quality of life.

Course Topics

  • Understand the symptoms and progression of dementia
  • Recognize the impact of dementia on individuals and their families
  • Learn effective communication techniques for people with dementia
  • Understand the importance of person-centered care
  • Identify strategies for managing challenging behaviors in dementia care
  • Explore the role of activities and environmental factors in dementia care

Course Description

Managing Challenging Behaviors in Dementia is a comprehensive course designed to help caregivers develop a deeper understanding of dementia-related behaviors and equip them with practical strategies for managing these behaviors effectively. The course covers various aspects of dementia care, including understanding the causes of challenging behaviors and implementing person-centered approaches to care. Caregivers will learn techniques for managing agitation, aggression, wandering, and other common dementia behaviors, as well as communication strategies for effectively interacting with individuals with dementia. The ultimate goal of this course is to improve the quality of life for both the person with dementia and the caregiver.

Course Topics

  • Identifying the causes of challenging behaviors in dementia
  • Person-centered approaches to dementia care
  • Techniques for managing agitation, aggression, and wandering
  • Communication strategies for individuals with dementia
  • Developing a care plan for managing challenging behaviors
  • Supporting caregivers' mental and emotional well-being

Course Description

Emergency Response Measures is a comprehensive course designed to equip PCAs with the necessary skills and knowledge to respond effectively to various emergencies that may arise while providing care to their clients. This course covers essential techniques and procedures in emergency response, including assessing situations, providing first aid, managing medical emergencies such as choking, fire safety, and fall prevention and management. Emphasis is placed on understanding the unique challenges faced by PCAs in emergency situations and ensuring the safety and well-being of both the client and the caregiver.

Course Topics

  • Identifying and responding to common medical emergencies
  • Fall prevention and management
  • Coordinating with emergency medical services (EMS)
  • Fire safety
  • Crisis communication
  • Weather safety

Course Description

The Control of Contagious and Infectious Diseases course is designed for personal care attendants to educate and equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to prevent the spread of contagious and infectious diseases in the health care setting. The course focuses on understanding the nature of infectious diseases, modes of transmission, prevention techniques, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) usage. Additionally, the course highlights the importance of proper hygiene, sanitation, and disinfection practices to maintain a safe and healthy environment for both the caregiver and the patient.

Course Topics

  • Understand common pathogens and their modes of transmission
  • Identify proper hand hygiene techniques and their importance
  • Learn about personal protective equipment (PPE) and its correct use
  • Recognize the importance of proper cleaning, sanitation, and disinfection
  • Familiarize with reporting requirements and procedures for infectious diseases

Course Description

This course is designed for caregivers who want to enhance their knowledge and skills in reporting essential body functions to the registered nurse supervisor. As an intermediate-level course, it delves into the critical aspects of monitoring and reporting vital signs, changes in patients' conditions, and other essential information to ensure the well-being of those under the caregivers' care. Understanding the basic elements of body functions and being able to report them accurately and timely is crucial for caregivers to provide effective care and support.

Course Topics

  • Identifying and monitoring vital signs
  • Recognizing changes in patients' conditions that require reporting
  • Documenting and reporting patient information accurately
  • Communicating effectively with the registered nurse supervisor
  • Understanding the roles and responsibilities of the caregiver and registered nurse supervisor
  • Ensuring patient confidentiality and privacy

Course Description

Responding to and Reporting Elder Abuse is a crucial course designed for caregivers who are responsible for the well-being of older adults. Elder abuse is a pervasive issue that can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and neglect. Caregivers play a vital role in identifying, addressing, and preventing elder abuse. This course aims to equip caregivers with the knowledge and tools necessary to recognize the signs of elder abuse, respond appropriately, and report any suspected incidents to the proper authorities. By understanding the different types of abuse and their indicators, caregivers can better protect the older adults under their care and ensure their safety and well-being.

Course Topics

  • Understand the risk factors and consequences of elder abuse
  • Learn effective communication strategies for addressing suspected abuse
  • Familiarize with the legal obligations and reporting requirements
  • Develop intervention and prevention strategies
  • Gain insight into the role of caregiver support and self-care in preventing elder abuse

Course Description

Falls Prevention is a vital course designed for caregivers who aim to provide a safe and secure environment for their patients, particularly the elderly and those with mobility challenges. Falls can lead to severe injuries, a decrease in the quality of life, and even death. This course focuses on identifying and managing risk factors, implementing preventive measures, and educating caregivers on how to respond effectively in case of a fall.

Course Topics

  • Describe the frequency and social costs of falls
  • Describe what can cause falls in older adults
  • Describe how to care for someone after a fall
  • Identify how falls can be prevented
  • Identify some programs and tools that can be used to prevent falls in your older clients

Course Description

Nutrition and Hydration is a course designed to provide essential knowledge about the importance of proper nutrition and hydration for patients under the care of PCAs. This course covers various aspects of nutrition, hydration, and dietary needs, including special diets, passing of food, and food storage and safety. The course also addresses the unique challenges faced in managing the nutritional needs of patients with various medical conditions, disabilities, and age-related issues.

Course Topics

  • Food preparation for patients with diverse dietary needs
  • Importance of nutrition and hydration for the elderly
  • Safe and organized meal delivery in a health care facility
  • Storing and preparing food in a safe manner

Course Description

Meal Preparation for Clients is a practical course designed for caregivers to enhance their skills in planning, preparing, and serving nutritious and balanced meals for their clients. This course will cover various aspects of meal planning, taking into account the dietary needs, preferences, and restrictions of the clients, as well as food safety and hygiene practices. Caregivers will learn about essential nutrients, portion control, and meal planning strategies to ensure that their clients receive the nourishment they need to maintain good health and well-being. The course also includes tips and techniques for making mealtime an enjoyable and social experience for clients, promoting their overall quality of life.

Course Topics

  • Nutritional needs and dietary restrictions of clients
  • Food safety and hygiene practices
  • Meal planning strategies and techniques
  • Portion control and serving sizes
  • Essential nutrients and their role in maintaining health
  • Tips for making mealtime an enjoyable experience for clients

Course Description

This course will cover the activities of daily living (ADLs) which are the essential, everyday tasks that we need to perform in order to live independently such as eating, bathing, and ambulating. As a caregiver, you can greatly assist those who, for cognitive, physical, and other reasons, are unable to independently complete their ADLs. In this course, you will learn how to assess clients' need for assistance with ADLs as well as learn practical ways to assist them. Assisting with ADLs is more than doing something for your client; it is helping them to do as much as they can for themselves.

Course Topics

  • Describe ADLs
  • Assess and monitor independence with ADLs
  • How to assist your client with bathing and grooming
  • How to assist your client in the shower or bath
  • How to perform a bed bath
  • How to provide hair care for different hair types and textures
  • How to assist your client to wash their hair in the sink, shower, or in bed
  • Assist your client with dressing while promoting independence
  • Obstacles to proper toileting and how to help clients
  • Importance of ambulation and assisting with transfers
  • Describe how to assist your client with eating and drinking

Course Description

Assisting with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) is a fundamental aspect of a PCA's role in providing essential care to patients in need. ADLs are everyday tasks that individuals typically perform independently, such as personal hygiene, dressing, eating, toileting, and mobility. PCAs are responsible for assisting patients in performing these tasks to maintain their independence, dignity, and overall well-being. This course focuses on the techniques and best practices in assisting patients with ADLs while ensuring the patient's safety and comfort.

Course Topics

  • Obtaining a temperature
  • Making occupied/unoccupied beds
  • Turning and repositioning
  • Transfers and wheelchair use
  • Oral care
  • Use and storage of different devices

Course Description

Oral Care for Seniors is a comprehensive course designed to provide an understanding of the unique dental challenges faced by seniors and the importance of proper oral hygiene and routine dental care. The course covers a range of topics, including the identification of common oral health problems, preventive measures, and practical tips for maintaining good oral health for seniors. The course is suitable for caregivers, family members, and healthcare professionals who work with elderly ones.

Course Topics

  • Common oral health problems faced by seniors
  • Preventive measures for maintaining oral health
  • Role of professional dental care in seniors' oral health
  • Identifying signs of oral health problems in seniors
  • Adapting oral care routines for seniors with physical and cognitive limitations

Course Description

Assisting with iADLs (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living) is a course designed for caregivers to help them develop the skills and knowledge necessary to provide support and assistance to patients who have difficulties performing everyday tasks. iADLs are activities that allow individuals to live independently, such as shopping, preparing meals, managing finances, and using communication devices. As a caregiver, understanding how to assist patients with iADLs is crucial for promoting their independence, safety, and overall well-being.

Course Topics

  • Describe what iADLs are
  • Outline the importance of iADLs
  • Describe how to assess a client’s ability to perform iADLs
  • Describe how you should approach assisting your client with iADLs
  • Describe the tasks you may have to perform when assisting a client with iADLs

Course Description

Basic Housekeeping is a course designed for caregivers who aim to maintain a clean, safe, and organized living environment for their clients. The course focuses on providing practical knowledge and skills essential for efficient housekeeping, including cleaning techniques, proper use of cleaning products and equipment, organization, and time management. The course also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy and hygienic environment for the clients, ensuring their comfort and well-being. As an intermediate-level course, it builds upon fundamental housekeeping concepts and explores more advanced topics relevant to the caregiver's role.

Course Topics

  • Safe and efficient cleaning techniques
  • Proper use of cleaning products and equipment
  • Organization and decluttering strategies
  • Handling laundry and linens
  • Basic home maintenance and safety checks
  • Adapting housekeeping strategies for clients with specific needs or conditions

Course Description

Safe Patient Handling is a crucial aspect of caregiving, designed to ensure the safety and well-being of both patients and caregivers during the process of transferring, repositioning, and lifting. This course is targeted at caregivers who are responsible for assisting patients in various care settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and private residences. The course will provide a comprehensive understanding of proper techniques, equipment usage, and guidelines to minimize the risk of injury to both the patient and the caregiver. By mastering these skills, caregivers can provide a higher quality of care while maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for their patients.

Course Topics

  • Ergonomics and body mechanics in patient handling
  • Identifying risks and hazards in patient handling
  • Proper techniques for lifting, transferring, and repositioning patients
  • Utilizing patient handling equipment and devices

Course Description

In this course, you will learn how to position your client in bed and in a wheelchair. Additionally, you will receive an overview of range of motion exercises.

Course Topics

  • Describe how to position your client in bed
  • Describe the different bed positions
  • Describe how to help your client change positions in bed
  • Describe how to position a client in a wheelchair
  • Describe positioning devices and how they can be used
  • Outline range of motion exercises

Course Description

In this course, you will have an introduction to medical terminology. Additionally, you will receive an overview on various documents you will have to complete.

Course Topics

  • Describe basic medical terminology
  • Describe common abbreviations used in health care
  • Describe how to give and receive a verbal report
  • Explain the types of factual observations
  • Describe the importance and purposes of written documentation
  • Demonstrate how to create effective written documentation