My academic journey as a personal support worker

My academic plan of study reflects the courses I have completed and am currently taking in the Personal Support Worker program. Each course has contributed to my development by strengthening my knowledge, skills, and understanding of the PSW role. Together, these courses have helped prepare me for safe, compassionate, and professional practice.

Semester 1: building foundational knowledge

In Semester 1, I delved into the core aspects of personal support work.

PSHS 100 – Anatomy focused on the structure and function of the human body, providing essential knowledge about major body systems. This understanding is crucial for comprehending clients' physical needs and delivering informed care.

PSHS 101 – Foundations of Personal Support Worker introduced me to the PSW role, emphasizing professionalism, safety, ethics, and person-centred care. This course established a strong ethical and practical groundwork for responsible and respectful practice.

PSHS 102 – Personal Support Communications               honed my communication skills, teaching me effective verbal, non-verbal, and written communication for interactions with clients, families, and team members. These skills are vital for building trust and ensuring clear understanding.

PSHS 103 – Developmental Changes & Alterations in Health In this course, I studied normal developmental changes across the lifespan as well as health alterations that may affect individuals. I learned how to recognize changes in physical and emotional health and how to respond appropriately. This course helped me build a stronger understanding of aging, health conditions, and client support.

PSHS 104 – Foundations of Mental Health.                           This course introduced key concepts related to mental health, mental illness, and emotional well-being. I learned how mental health can affect daily life and how PSWs can provide supportive, respectful care. It also taught me the importance of empathy, awareness, and reducing stigma in health care.

PSHS 105 – PSW Skills Laboratory 1                                         This course focuses on developing foundational Personal Support Worker skills in a practical laboratory setting. I learned and practiced essential hands-on care techniques such as hand hygiene, safe body mechanics, bed making, assisting with personal care, transfers, communication, and maintaining dignity and privacy. This course helped me strengthen my confidence, professionalism, and accuracy while preparing me for clinical placement and future work as a PSW.

Semester 2: deepening practical and ethical understanding

Semester 2 expanded on my foundational knowledge with critical courses.

PSHS 122 – Supporting Clients in Palliative Care         Provided insights into caring for individuals with life-limiting conditions, focusing on comfort, dignity, and quality of life. This course deepened my understanding of the emotional, physical, and spiritual needs of clients and families during palliative care, strengthening my compassion and sensitivity.

PSHS 123 – Personal & Professional                                  Further developed my professionalism, accountability, and self-awareness. It taught me how personal values and ethics impact care quality and encouraged reflection on my growth as a healthcare worker.

PSHS 125 – Clinical Practice                                               Offered invaluable hands-on experience in a real care environment. This practical application of classroom learning helped me develop essential PSW skills, gain confidence, and foster teamwork.

PSHS 126 – Community Placement                                        This course provided experience in a community setting and helped me understand the role of a PSW outside of a facility environment. I learned how community care supports independence and quality of life for clients. It also strengthened my ability to adapt to different care environments.

GNED 126 – Occupational Health & Safety                               This course focuses on the principles and practices of maintaining a safe and healthy work environment. I learned about workplace safety, hazard identification, risk prevention, proper use of equipment, emergency procedures, and the rights and responsibilities of workers and employers. This course helped me understand the importance of following safety protocols and protecting both myself and others in a health care setting.