HCA 106 Cognitive and/or Mental Health Challenges

Notes:

Learning Outcomes with Indicators:

1. Describe ways to organize, provide, and evaluate person-centred care and assistance for clients experiencing cognitive challenges:
   • 1.1 Explain the difference between confusion, delirium, and dementia.
   • 1.2 Identify causes of reversible and irreversible dementia and describe the primary forms, causes, symptoms, and treatments, as well as the stages of dementia.
   • 1.3 Discuss principles of person-and family-centred care used to care for individuals living with dementia.
   • 1.4 Use effective communication strategies for interacting with persons with dementia.
   • 1.5 Describe the behaviours and psychological symptoms of dementia, including factors influencing behaviours and strategies for preventing and responding to behaviours.
   • 1.6 Describe appropriate techniques for assisting with personal care and dietary intake for persons with dementia.
   • 1.7 Describe appropriate activities for individuals experiencing different levels of dementia.
   • 1.8 Identify the needs of the families and professional caregivers and describe ways to support them.
2. Describe ways to organize, provide, and evaluate person-centred care and assistance for clients experiencing mental health challenges:
   • 2.1 Explain the mental health continuum and identify factors that influence the mental health and well-being of individuals.
   • 2.2 Describe the causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevalence of common mental health disorders and conditions.
   • 2.3 Discuss stigma associated with mental health challenges and stigmatizing language.
   • 2.4 Discuss how perceptions of mental health challenges may differ between diverse groups.
   • 2.5 Describe the principles and approaches for person-centred care of the client and family.
   • 2.6 Identify implications of involuntary admission under the Mental Health Act.
3. Describe effective approaches for responding to responsive and reactive behaviours:
   • 3.1 Identify behavioural indicators that an individual or group is becoming reactive or exhibiting behaviours that could impact safety.
   • 3.2 Describe appropriate verbal and non-verbal techniques to promote a calming atmosphere and de-escalate responsive behaviours.
   • 3.3 Identify when and how to exit a potentially unsafe situation.
4. Describe effective approaches for recognizing, responding to, and preventing elder abuse.
   • 4.1 Identify types of elder abuse.
   • 4.2 Describe signs and symptoms of elder abuse.
   • 4.3 Discuss risk factors and underlying causes of elder abuse.
   • 4.4 Discuss strategies for preventing and responding to elder abuse.

Prerequisites: Admission to HCA Program