School of Nursing

Continuing Care Assistant

Certificate

Program Overview

The Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) program recently completed a program review and curriculum update. Students who started the program prior to the 2022-23 academic year can complete their CCA certificate on a part-time basis (must be completed within 4 years of your start date) through the School of Continuing Education (click link for detailed information).

The information that follows is for students who are just beginning their educational journey.

Continuing Care Assistants (CCAs) have been called the eyes and ears of the frail and vulnerable. The need for CCAs has never been greater and employment opportunities are available in a variety of settings. You’ll support clients with ambulation, meal assistance/nutrition, personal care (bathing, toileting, dressing and grooming), medication monitoring, communication, and end of life care. You’ll work directly with clients across the life span who have a variety of health care needs and you’ll become an important and respected member of the healthcare team.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic's Continuing Care Assistant program is a one-year certificate program that you can take in Saskatoon, Regina or Prince Albert. You can also take it through your local regional college or through part-time distance flexible learning through the School of Continuing Education.

The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning in labs and during clinical practicums. You’ll build knowledge and skills in:

addressing individual psychosocial needs.
developing effective communication skills.
using personal protective equipment when working with infectious diseases.
performing personal care such as bathing and toileting for older adults.
death and dying practices.
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 and lifestyles.

You will participate in two clinical placements (at different facilities) over a 6-week timeframe. Under the supervision of your instructor and working alongside experienced CCAs you’ll put your skills into practice with clients in long-term care facilities. It’s a great way to build your knowledge and confidence.

Is it a fit?

CCAs work with weak and vulnerable clients who have chronic and acute health conditions. To be successful as a CCA, you will need to be a compassionate, caring, patient person, with an upbeat attitude and strong interpersonal skills. You will need to remain calm when the situations around you are chaotic and ever-changing. CCAs often work in fast-paced environments where the needs of your clients change throughout the day. This role will require you to be organized, flexible and adaptable. If you feel like this would be a good fit for your personality, we encourage you to apply to the program.

What equipment and supplies do I need to take the CCA Program?

Students will require the following to take the CCA Program:

A laptop with webcam to complete exams.
Reliable/stable internet connection for online course components
A uniform to attend the laboratory/simulation components and clinical practice education.
Required textbooks and course materials.

How long can I take to complete the program?

CCA students must complete the program within four years to receive their certificate.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

Continuing Care Assistant graduates enjoy high employment rates. You 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. You’ll work as part of a health-care team under the supervision of registered nurses, registered psychiatric nurses or licensed practical nurses.

Potential Careers

Sample Job Title	NOC Classification¹	Earning Potential²
Continuing Care Assistant	Nurse Aides, Orderlies and Patient Services Associates (3413)	$32,600 - $50,000
Special Care Aide	Nurse Aides, Orderlies and Patient Services Associates (3413)	$32,600 - $50,000
Home Health Aide	Home Support Workers, Housekeepers and Related Occupations (4412)	$28,600 - $52,400

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s):

Fall (Prince Albert, Regina, Saskatoon); Winter (Prince Albert)

Length:

32 weeks

Locations

Prince Albert
Regina
Saskatoon
Online/Distance options available

Some programs offered online or otherwise by distance (i.e., correspondence) include on-site labs, clinicals, practicums or work experiences. They may be offered course-by-course or full-time, or both, and deliveries may change over time.

Part-time Delivery

In order to graduate and receive a credential for this program, part-time students must apply and be admitted before taking SPCR 108 (Special Procedures), CLIN 100 (Clinical 1, Special Care), and CLIN 219 (Clinical 2, Special Care).

View the program page for a complete list of courses and additional information.

Admissions

Admission Requirements

Grade 12 or successful completion of fifteen (15) post-secondary credits from a recognized institution
English Language Requirement

Note

Applicants require:

personal and physical suitability. This job is physically demanding and you will be on your feet continuously throughout your shifts (aside from your coffee and meal breaks). It can also be mentally and emotionally stressful and students must have a strong support system and coping strategies in place to do well.
a Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search prior to entering the clinical component of the program (an interview may be required). At the discretion of the clinical agency, you may be declined access to a clinical placement based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search. The cost of the Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector Search is your responsibility.
Standard First Aid and CPR Heartsaver CPR AED – Level C or equivalent are required prior to entry into clinical.
current immunization records.
N95 respirator mask testing (2 mask minimum) prior to entry into the clinical practicum. The cost of N95 respirator mask testing is your responsibility.
2015 WHMIS Globally Harmonized System (GHS) certification upon admission into the program. Recertification will be required every three years to remain current. The cost of WHMIS certification is your responsibility.
current Transferring, Lifting and Repositioning (TLR®) © certification and Professional Assault Response Training (PART®) © Intermediate certification
Food Safe Level 1 Certification prior to entry into the clinical practicum. Students are responsible for the costs of these certificates.
a co-op work permit (international students only) to participate in the mandatory CLIN 100 and CLIN 219 in this program.

Alternative Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.

ACCUPLACER©

Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Alternative Admission using Accuplacer.

250 Arithmetic
247 Reading
243 Writing

Post-secondary

Some programs allow applicants to meet the admission grade level requirement using 15 approved post-secondary credits. Review additional information.

If the program applied to has specific course requirements, they may be met through alternative post-secondary courses. Review already approved courses that may be used for admission purposes for your programs.

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as approximate cost for books and supplies. Visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program.

2022/23 Academic Year

$8,010

International Students

View tuition rates for international students.

Courses

Expand All +

Semester 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ANAT 100

Body Systems

You will receive a basic introduction to body systems. You will study the structure of organs and systems in the human body, and how they function efficiently.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): APHY 188, APHY 189
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Work Based Delivery

CLIN 100

Clinical 1 - Special Care

In a long term care setting, you will participate in a supervised clinical experience following the hours of work of that site. You will assist clients who require personal care/comfort.
Credit Units: 7
Course Hours: 105.0
Prerequisites(s): SPCR 104, SPCR 105, ANAT 100, SPCR 192, COMM 291
Equivalent Course(s): PRAC 101
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Clinical/Practicum-Individual, Prior Learning, Work Based Delivery

COMM 197

Helping Skills

You will apply communication skills to facilitate a helping relationship with your clients, their families, significant others, other health care staff, as well as various other professionals.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): COMM 291
Equivalent Course(s): COMM 160, COMM 293, HUMR 186, NEPS 112, NURS 163
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Work Based Delivery

COMM 291

Interpersonal Communications

You will develop employability skills through the study of interpersonal communications theory and applications in the workplace. Learning outcomes include the importance of self-awareness and self-esteem, perception problems, verbal and nonverbal messages, and listening skills, creating positive communication climates and resolving interpersonal conflict.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): BCOM 103, COMM 112, COMM 135, COMM 155, COMM 160, COMM 381, HUMR 182, HUMR 186, JOBS 190, NEPS 114, NURS 114, NURS 163
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning, Televised/SCN, Work Based Delivery

DEMC 100

Dementia Care

You will study the types, behaviors and assessment techniques for dementia. You will learn how to promote optimal levels of functioning throughout the disease progression and manage critical incidents. Issues related to institutional care placement and the impact dementia has on the family will be examined.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Web Assisted Delivery Group, Work Based Delivery

SPCR 101

Observing, Reporting, and Recording

You will learn written and oral communication skills required in the work place. The course content includes basic concepts of simple arithmetic, basic medical terminology, concept mapping, observing and reporting on client’s status, client and personal work plans.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): COMM 198, NURS 171
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Web Assisted Delivery Group, Work Based Delivery

SPCR 104

Personal Care 1

You will have the opportunity to become skilled at assisting clients in meeting personal care needs. You will study infection control, body mechanics, bed making, positioning clients, oral care, and assisting to feed clients.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Web Assisted Delivery Group, Work Based Delivery

SPCR 105

Personal Care 2

Building on the skills you learned in Personal Care 1, you will become skilled at assisting clients in meeting personal care needs. You will study grooming and dressing, foot and nail care, and elimination care.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): SPCR 104
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Web Assisted Delivery Group, Work Based Delivery

SPCR 106

Introduction to Caregiving

You will examine the role of the Continuing Care Assistant as part of the interprofessional team and discuss the attributes that are required to be a successful team member. Client and family-centered care will be discussed with the use of effective communication to build rapport and trust. Safe practices will be explored to ensure safety for the client and caregiver.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): SPCR 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Work Based Delivery

SPCR 192

Personal Competence

Your studies will focus on the goals and philosophy of health care services in Saskatchewan. You will learn how these goals are reflected in the activities of the agency and on your role as a caregiver. You will learn about your role in providing care services within a multicultural dynamic setting. The course content also includes interprofessional work environments, personal health, employability skills, and types of abuse (for example: caregiver, neglect and abandonment, sexual and financial).
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): NEPS 113
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Work Based Delivery

Total semester credits: 26

Semester 2

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CLIN 219

Clinical 2 - Special Care

In a long term care setting, you will participate in a supervised clinical experience following the hours of work of that clinical site. You will provide care for clients who require assistance with activities of daily living.
Credit Units: 8
Course Hours: 120.0
Prerequisites(s): CLIN 100, COMM 197, COMM 291, DEMC 100, HUMD 187, SOCI 171, SPCR 101, SPCR 102, SPCR 106, SPCR 107, SPCR 108, SPCR 284, SPCR 285
Potential Learning Method(s): Clinical/Practicum, Clinical/Practicum-Individual, Prior Learning, Work Based Delivery

HUMD 187

Human Growth and Development

You will learn the physical, social, intellectual and emotional aspects of human growth and development from infancy to old age. You will also study the effects of aging on society.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): HUMD 188
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Work Based Delivery

SOCI 160

Foundations of Sociology

Using your sociological imagination, you will examine how to practice sociology, and learn about the importance of culture, socialization, and the family. You will discuss social inequality in Canada, as well as explore the concepts of social control and deviance. Your studies will also include issues related to the power of mass media, the dualism of sex and gender, and race and ethnicity. You will have an opportunity to examine collective behavior, social movements, social change, and globalization.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): SOCI 184
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Web Assisted Delivery Group

SPCR 102

End of Life Care

Your studies will cover death and dying in the Canadian context. You will study the basic needs and interventions of the dying client. You will also cover grief, the grieving process and the impact of life threatening illnesses on the family members.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Web Assisted Delivery Group, Work Based Delivery

SPCR 107

Community Care

You will learn how to promote client independence in a safe home environment. Examination of community resources will help you learn how to promote socialization for seniors. Nutritional challenges and activity for seniors will be discussed as well as the employment standards for working alone in home care. This course includes a 1 day observed community exercise.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Work Based Delivery

SPCR 108

Special Procedures

You will be introduced to the Continuing Care Assistant’s role in assisting with special procedures. You will learn about delegation and perform basic measurements and simple treatments. Client assessment will also be discussed. You will acquire the theory and skills required to assist clients who have post-acute surgical or medical conditions.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Web Assisted Delivery Group, Work Based Delivery

SPCR 284

Special Needs 1

Your studies will cover the basic needs and interventions of clients with disruptions in their sensory organs, body systems (i.e. cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, neurological and endocrine) and body functions (i.e. genitourinary and gastro-intestinal).
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): NEPS 291
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Web Assisted Delivery Group, Work Based Delivery

SPCR 285

Special Needs 2

Your studies will cover the basic needs and interventions of clients with infectious diseases, cancer, altered mental abilities, disruption in mental health, and alcohol and drug dependency. You will learn the specific care required for bariatric clients.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): SPCR 284
Equivalent Course(s): NEPS 293
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning, Web Assisted Delivery Group, Work Based Delivery

Total semester credits: 27

Get Credit for What You Know

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

See link(s) below to get more information about PLAR.

Candidate Guide
Candidate Guide (Department of Arts and Sciences courses)
- communications, mathematics, sciences, social sciences
More about PLAR

Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.

Student Awards

Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.

More about scholarships

Additional Information

Indigenous Student Experience
Personal Readiness
Have a question? Email CCA.Program@saskpolytech.ca.

School of Nursing

Continuing Care Assistant