INITIAL TRAINING

Initial Training is provided in addition to Orientation and is designed to build on the foundational knowledge caregivers receive at the start of employment. It covers essential topics that prepare staff for their specific responsibilities. Initial training includes:

(1) Communication skills with consumers such as those who have a hearing deficit, dementia, or other special needs; 

(2) Appropriate training in accordance with the needs of special needs populations served by the agency including communication and behavior management techniques; 

(3) Appropriate and safe techniques in personal care tasks prior to assignment. Areas include bathing, skin care, hair care, nail care, mouth care, shaving, dressing, feeding, assistance with ambulation, exercises and transfers, positioning, bladder care, bowel care, medication reminding, homemaking tasks, and protective oversight; 

(4) Recognizing emergencies and knowledge of emergency procedures including basic first aid, home and fire safety; 

(5) The role of, and coordination with, other community service providers; and 

(6) Maintenance of a clean, safe and healthy environment, including appropriate cleaning techniques and sanitary meal preparation.

Reading time: 2h

The training programs include quizzes and certificates of completion to support learning and verify successful course completion.