Course Description

This course is designed to help the training of personal care assistants who work with clients with spinal cord injury (SCI). The course’s goal is to increase knowledge about SCI, improve communication, and enhance quality of care.

Course curriculum

  • 1

    Module 1: You Make A Difference

    • Welcome to the Course

    • Getting to Know You

    • About this Course

    • Why is personal care assistance so important to people with SCI?

    • What role do you play in the life of your client with spinal cord injury?
  • 2

    Module 2: What is Spinal Cord Injury?

    • What is Spinal Cord Injury?

    • What does an assistant help you to do?

    • Module 2: Show What You Know
  • 3

    Module 3: Physical Functions Affected by Spinal Cord Injury

    • Introduction

    • Movement and Reflexes

    • Sensation (Feeling)

    • Breathing

    • Temperature Control

    • Blood Pressure

    • Bowel and Bladder Control

    • Module 3: Show What You Know
  • 4

    Module 4: Personal and Social Challenges Created by SCI

    • Introduction

    • Loss of Control

    • Feelings of Vulnerability

    • Loss of Privacy

    • Sadness, Depression, and Lack of Confidence

    • Social Isolation

    • Financial Stress

    • Module 4: Show What You Know
  • 5

    Module 5: Common Misunderstandings about SCI

    • Misunderstandings About Physical Effects of SCI

    • Misunderstandings About Thoughts and Feelings

    • Misunderstandings About Preferences for Help

    • Module 5: Show What You Know
  • 6

    Module 6 (Part 1): Complications of SCI

    • Skin Problems

    • Autonomic Dysreflexia

    • Low Blood Pressure

    • Module 6 (Part 1): Show What You Know
  • 7

    Module 6 (Part 2): Complications of SCI

    • Infections

    • Pain

    • Blood Clots

    • Problems with Joints, Muscles, or Bones

    • Mental Health Challenges

    • Module 6 (Part 2): Show What You Know
  • 8

    Module 7: Applying What You've Learned

    • Applying What You've Learned
  • 9

    Module 8: Special Topics

    • Introduction to Special Topics

    • Building Positive Working Relationships

    • Managing Blood Pressure

    • Equipment and Spinal Cord Injury

    • Tips for Safe Transfers
  • 10

    Share Your Thoughts

    • Thoughts About the Course

    • Thoughts About You
  • 11

    Resources

    • Resource List

    • Discussion Guide (PDF Version)

    • Discussion Guide (Word Version)
  • 12

    Acknowledgements

    • Special Thanks