Unit 1: Understanding client care

• Identify groups of people in need of health care
• Physical, emotional, social, psychological and spiritual needs of groups of people
• Respect for client’s wishes and confidentiality
• Effective safety and security procedures
• Adapt levels of assistance to client’s needs
• Interpersonal skills
• Effective communication skills
• Enhancing privacy, dignity, independence and positive self-image
• Social events, outings
• Occupational therapy and physiotherapy

Unit 2: Using equipment

• Assisting clients with the use of sensory equipment
• Assisting in the use of aids to encourage independence
• Use of mechanical aids and equipment
• Correct procedures for cleaning and replacing equipment
• Introduction to safe and approved moving and handling equipment

Unit 3: Assisting skills

• Washing, bathing and showering
• Assist with dressing and grooming
• Maintain a safe and hygienic environment for clients
• Safe handling and disposal of soiled linen, etc
• Skin care and prevention of pressure sores
• Observation, recording and reporting skills
• Assisting with social needs
• Correct procedure for patient/client used cleaning equipment

Component Certificate in Care Skills (FETAC Level 5)

Certificate in Care Skills (The College of Progressive Education)

This programme is designed to meet the needs of people working or planning to work in a care setting.
This programme aims to equip the carer with the skills and knowledge to care for clients in a safe and hygienic environment.
For learners who wish to complete the FETAC Healthcare Support Certificate (major award DHSXX) this module is mandatory.

• Develop confidence in the carers and in the value of their work
• Recognise the personal care needs of clients, allowing client choice and involvement
• Develop and acquire practical skills in giving or assisting with client’s personal care
• Maintain a safe and hygienic environment for clients and carers

There are no specific entry requirements. Minimum age is 17 years.

Learners must also be capable of undertaking assessment work to Ordinalry Level Leaving Certificate standard.

International learners undertaking this course should have confidence in their English language, reading, writing and comprehension skills and have at least a 5 IELTS score or equivalent

Learners must obtain an Irish Heart Foundation Heart Saver CPR Certificate, or equivalent, as a requirement for the course.

It is recommended, though not essential, that learners obtain at least 20 hours work experience caring for an older person during the programme.

Nursing homes/hospitals will require learners to have completed a manual handling course before being accepted on work experience. (A list of contacts is available on request) They will also require students to be vaccinated against Hepatitis B

Skills Demonstration - 60%

Two work based assignments - 40%

FETAC Level 5 Health Support Certificate (DHSXX)

Practical Home Care Skills - FETAC Level 5 Component Certificate

Care Worker

Family support member

12 weeks (one evening per week) and 2 saturdays