HCA 102 Introduction to Practice

Notes:

Learning Outcomes with Indicators:

1. Discuss the roles and responsibilities of HCAs within the health care system in British Columbia:
   • 1.1 Describe the health care systems in British Columbia and Canada.
   • 1.2 Describe the processes by which individuals in British Columbia become eligible for long-term care.
   • 1.3 Discuss the goals, philosophy, and approaches used in assisted living facilities and how these might also be applied in other contexts.
   • 1.4 Describe the purpose and functions of employer standards, policies, and procedures.
   • 1.5 Discuss the importance of maintaining client and family confidentiality.
   • 1.6 Describe the roles and responsibilities of HCAs within the health care team.
   • 1.7 Describe the role of labour unions in health care in relation to membership, responsibilities, and implications for HCAs.
   • 1.8 Describe the role and mandate of bodies with oversight of HCAs in B.C.
2. Discuss strategies to support the effective functioning of the health care team:
   • 2.1 Discuss basic concepts of team development and group processes.
   • 2.2 Describe the benefits and challenges of working in a team, including diversity within the team.
   • 2.3 Describe principles of collaboration and cooperation that contribute to effective team functioning.
   • 2.4 Describe the roles and responsibilities of various members of the health care team.
   • 2.5 Discuss lines of communication.
3. Discuss the legal and ethical parameters of the HCA role and requirements for responsible and accountable practice:
   • 3.1 Discuss human rights as they relate to the provider and the recipient of care.
   • 3.2 Discuss elements of responsible and accountable behaviour.
   • 3.3 Delineate the legal and contractual limitations and obligations of HCAs.
   • 3.4 Delineate the legal implications of the written word.
   • 3.5 Discuss how to recognize ethical issues in practice and methods for resolving such issues.
   • 3.6 Discuss appropriate responses when a situation exceeds legal or employer-defined parameters of one’s role.
   • 3.7 Describe what is meant by professional boundaries in relation to relationships with clients and families.
4. Apply self-reflection and self-appraisal processes in order to recognize and respond to own self-development needs as a care provider:
   • 4.1 Discuss reflective practice: what it is, why it is important, how to become a reflective care provider.
   • 4.2 Discuss how personal competence of the care provider is a component of caring practice.
   • 4.3 Describe how self-assessment relates to self-development.
   • 4.4 Discuss the importance of lifelong learning for all care providers.
5. Confidently conduct a job-search process:
   • 5.1 Describe the challenges and rewards of specific work environments.
   • 5.2 Discuss criteria for selecting a work environment that fits one’s strengths, values, preferences, and lifestyle.
   • 5.3 Identify the components of applying for a job:
     • Preparing a clear, attractive resume and letter of application.
     • Completing a job application form.
     • Effectively participating in a job interview.
     • Finding resources to support the process of applying for a job.

Prerequisites: Admission to HCA Program