Personal Support Worker (PSW)-2 Months

60 Days

All levels

74 lessons

10 quizzes

99 students

Overview
Curriculum
Instructor
Reviews

Personal Support Worker (PSW)

Certification Program
Two-Month Design (Standard Pace), 2025

Course Overview:

Personal Support Workers (PSWs) play an indispensable role in Ontario’s healthcare system, providing essential care and support to individuals across a wide range of settings, including hospitals, long-term care homes, retirement residences, and home care services. As Ontario’s aging population continues to grow, the demand for competent, skilled PSWs has increased significantly. The evolving complexity of healthcare needs, combined with the emphasis on patient-centered care, further highlights the necessity of a specialized training program for PSWs that aligns with the standards and regulations set by the province.
In Ontario, PSWs are at the forefront of providing day-to-day care to individuals who are elderly, disabled, or suffering from chronic illnesses. These workers ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of their clients, offering support with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, feeding, mobility assistance, and medication reminders. In addition to these physical care tasks, PSWs also provide emotional and social support, which is crucial to promoting mental and emotional health for patients, especially those dealing with long-term health conditions or end-of-life care.
Given the increasing demand for healthcare services in Ontario, there is a critical need for PSWs who are well-trained and equipped to handle the variety of challenges that arise in healthcare environments. This course is designed to address that need by offering comprehensive training that covers essential topics ranging from communication and professionalism in healthcare to safety, infection control, client-centered care, and palliative care. By incorporating both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical experience, this course provides students with the skills necessary to thrive in the healthcare environment and meet the standards set by the Ontario Ministry of Health.
The need for a well-rounded and highly trained workforce in the PSW sector is further reinforced by the increasing emphasis on quality of care, patient safety, and cultural competency within Ontario’s healthcare system. PSWs often serve as the primary point of contact for patients and their families, making their roles pivotal in the overall healthcare experience. Through this course, students will gain not only the technical skills necessary for personal care but also the interpersonal skills required to provide compassionate, client-centered care.
Moreover, the course aligns with the Ontario PSW Training Standard, ensuring that graduates are knowledgeable about the legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities associated with their roles. This includes understanding patient rights, confidentiality laws such as the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA), and the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect for diversity. As healthcare practices evolve, PSWs must be equipped to respond to a diverse population, addressing cultural, religious, and individual needs while maintaining the highest standards of care.
Ultimately, the PSW program in Ontario is more than just a certification; it is an essential part of the healthcare workforce that ensures the ongoing well-being of individuals across the province. By offering this course, we aim to prepare the next generation of PSWs to meet the diverse and
dynamic needs of Ontario’s healthcare system and to uphold the values of empathy, respect, and professionalism that are central to high-quality care.
In conclusion, this course is a crucial step in advancing the personal support workforce in Ontario. It provides students with the necessary training, resources, and support to excel in the healthcare sector, ensuring they are prepared to provide the highest standard of care to those who need it most. As the demand for PSWs continues to rise, the importance of this course cannot be overstated, as it directly contributes to the enhancement of healthcare services, patient satisfaction, and the overall health and well-being of Ontario’s population.
The Personal Support Worker (PSW) program provides a comprehensive, hands-on training experience designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to excel in various healthcare settings. The course consists of 10 modules that cover the essential aspects of PSW responsibilities. After completing Modules 1-9, you will participate in Module 10, which focuses on a 120-hour practicum.

Module Breakdown:

Module 1: Introduction to the PSW Role
10 hours (5 theory, 5 self-study/assessment)

Module 2: Professionalism & Communication in Healthcare
12 hours (6 theory, 6 self-study/assessment)

Module 3: Safety and Infection Control
14 hours (7 theory, 7 practical/assessment)

Module 4: Client-Centered and Culturally Relevant Care
12 hours (6 theory, 6 self-study/assessment)

Module 5: Assisting with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
16 hours (8 theory, 8 practical/assessment)

Module 6: Assisting with Medications
12 hours (6 theory, 6 self-study/assessment)

Module 7: Cognitive and Mental Health Support
14 hours (7 theory, 7 self-study/assessment)

Module 8: Palliative and End-of-Life Care
12 hours (6 theory, 6 self-study/assessment)

Module 9: Abuse Prevention and Legal Responsibilities
10 hours (5 theory, 5 self-study/assessment)

Module 10: Practicum & Final Assessment
150 hours (practical experience in real-world settings)

Completion Requirements:

To successfully complete the course, you need to meet the following requirements:
 Complete all modules (1-9) with a passing grade.
 Successfully complete the practicum (120 hours).
 Pass the final assessment (practical exam, written exam, and reflective journal).
Once you have met all the criteria, you will be awarded your PSW certification, which will qualify you to work as a Personal Support Worker in Ontario.

Resources Available to You:

 Instructor Support: Your instructor will be available for guidance and questions throughout the course and practicum.
 Student Forum: The online forum is a great place to engage with your peers, share experiences, and discuss challenges.
 Practicum Supervisor: Your practicum supervisor will provide direct feedback and mentorship during your fieldwork.

Curriculum

11 Sections
74 Lessons
60 Days

Expand all sectionsCollapse all sections

Module 1: Roles and Responsibilities: Providing Care with Dignity and Respect
8
Module 2: Professionalism & Communication in Healthcare
9
Module 3: Safety and Infection Control
9
Module 4: Client-Centered and Culturally Relevant Care
9
Module 5: Assisting with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
9
Module 6: Assisting with Medications
8
Module 7: Cognitive and Mental Health Support
8
Module 8: Palliative and End-of-Life Care
8
Module 9: Abuse Prevention and Legal Responsibilities
8
Module 10: Practicum & Final Assessment
7
Practicum & Final Assessment
1
- 11.1
  Overview

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One Comment

Sana Ashrafi says:

July 7, 2025 at 10:37 pm

I recently completed the self-study Personal Support Worker (PSW) course at Canadian STEM School and found it to be a well-organized and accessible program. The course materials were clear, comprehensive, and easy to follow, making it convenient to study at my own pace.

Even though the program was fully self-directed and did not include practical training, the content provided a strong theoretical foundation in areas such as personal care, safety, communication, and supporting individuals with various needs. It’s a great option for independent learners who are motivated and looking to gain essential knowledge in the PSW field.

Overall, I appreciate the flexibility and structure of the course and would recommend it to others who are seeking a theoretical understanding of the PSW role.

Reply