Grade Level: 11, 12 Credits: 3 Type: Practical Art 

School: CACC

Prerequisite: Family Care Safety Registry background check; State or Federally issued ID, Social Security card, drug screen, tuberculosis screening, influenza vaccine; COVID vaccine; discipline review for violence, insubordination, drugs and stealing; preference is given to students with a record of strong attendance. Students must maintain a 70% or better in the first semester to continue into the second semester and to qualify for clinicals. Prerequisites may vary depending on current industry standards needed for employment and access to healthcare facilities.

Students will learn primary patient care and communication skills and apply medical terminology in the classroom, simulated lab, and community settings. Clinicals require students to perform hands-on patient care with residents at local Long-Term Care Facilities. Hands-on patient care includes skills such as: performing vital signs, supporting residents with activities of daily living (showers, eating, toileting, etc.), and working with residents who have dementia, immobility, and other common geriatric conditions. American Heart Association Healthcare Provider Basic Life Support CPR certification is a requirement and part of the coursework.

Completing 100 hours of direct patient care and 75 hours of classroom instruction may provide eligibility for the Missouri Certified Nurse Assistant exam. This will enable students to work in healthcare facilities, pursue postsecondary education, and enhance admission opportunities to advanced healthcare career programs. Any student interested in pursuing a career in healthcare will greatly benefit from the skills taught as part of this course. Every student will have a chance to promote personal and professional skills through participation in HOSA.

Recommended: Anatomy and Physiology

Related: PLTW Principles of Biomedical Sciences, PLTW Human Body Systems, Biology, Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology

College credit: may be available 

Enrollment Note: Course enrollment will begin with the 12th, followed by the 11th grade.