> Kwantlen University College > Calendar > Programs > Home Support / Resident Care

Home Support / Resident Care

HOME SUPPORT / RESIDENT CARE ATTENDANT CERTIFICATE

Applying for Fall (September) 2007? Click here for updated program information

DESCRIPTION

The Home Support Resident Care Attendant program is designed to provide students with opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills and values necessary to function as a front-line caregiver in a variety of long term care settings which include both residential care facilities and home support agencies. The graduate is prepared to provide care to older adults experiencing diverse, often complex but relatively stable health and illness needs.

Graduates are prepared to function collaboratively as members of a multi-disciplinary health care team. In a facility they work under the direct supervision of an appropriate health professional. In the home care setting they work more independently but are always under the direction of a health professional.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Upon completion of the program, graduates are qualified to work in a home support agency as well as in a variety of community or residential care facilities, for example: Adult Day Care, Assisted Living, Complex Care, Extended Care and Special Care Units.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

In addition to the general Kwantlen University College admission requirements, (see exceptions below) the following specific requirements apply:

  • Acceptable English language assessment score as determined by established program criteria

  • All applicants whose first language is English will write the Canadian Achievement Test (CAT). Applicants whose first language is not English and who have taken less than 9 years of education in Canada are to take the Secondary Level English Proficiency Test (SLEP). A minimum score of 55 is required for program consideration

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Upon provisional acceptance to the program additional admission requirements need to be completed prior to receiving final acceptance, these include:

  • A medical assessment by a physician completed within six months prior to entry into the program

  • Two supportive employment references or letters of recommendation from persons in a responsible position (excluding family)

  • A criminal record search completed within three months prior to enrolling in the program

  • Thirty (30) hours of volunteer experience in a long term care facility with satisfactory reference, or related relevant experience

  • Immunization consistent with the requirements of clinical agencies

  • Food Safe Level I course

  • A valid First-Aid Certificate and CPR Level C

  • An interview with the Program Coordinator may be required

Note

Examples of first aid courses that qualify are: St. John’s Ambulance standard Enhanced or Emergency First Aid for Adult Residential Care.

Students with mental or physical impairments who may require program or practicum accommodations, should contact the program coordinator to discuss required skills and competencies, and a Disability Advisor at 604.599.3233 to ensure appropriate accommodations can be arranged.

CONTENT

The student will spend approximately 870 hours in a variety of learning environments over the program length, including classroom, nursing laboratory, resident care facilities and home care environments. They will be expected to do both daytime (0700-1500) and evening (1500 - 2300) shifts. The last five weeks of the program will be a full-time work experience.

COSTS

In addition to tuition fees, students will spend approximately $1500.00 for textbooks, course materials, uniforms and shoes, transportation and parking, etc. during the program. Students are also responsible for providing their own transportation to clinical experiences.

GRADUATION

Upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded a Certificate in Home Support Resident Care Attendant.