Demand for health-care workers is high, and that includes demand for continuing care assistants. People who enjoy caring for others, and want to get into the workforce quickly should consider Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Continuing Care.

As a continuing care assistant, students will work directly with clients in long-term care, home care, assisted living, some areas in acute care, and even special needs classrooms. Students help them with mobility, personal care, assisting them to eat their meals, and medication monitoring. It’s a face-to-face, people-focused job. The program combines hands-on classroom learning with practical clinical experience. Students build knowledge and skills in:

• Addressing individual psychosocial needs • Administering personal care • Dementia management strategies • Gerontology (a major area of study) • Long-term care philosophy in different settings • Promoting independence in a safe environment • Working with individuals with different physical and cognitive impairments • Working with people of different cultures

Clinical work experiences will give students a taste of different work settings. Under the supervision of a buddy or staff member, students work directly with clients in home care, long-term care and acute care settings. It’s a great way to build skills and confidence. Continuing Care Assistant graduates enjoy high employment rates. Students could work in a home care setting, long-term care facility, private care home, acute care facility, integrated facility, supportive housing or special needs classroom. Students will work as part of a health-care team under the supervision of registered nurses, registered psychiatric nurses or licensed practical nurses.