Course description

This course introduces the support worker student to the normal structures and functions of the human body as well as related alterations in functioning. The body systems, medical terminology and abbreviations, and age-related changes will be covered which provide the student with the foundation for understanding and describing the physiology, causes, signs, symptoms, and management for common disease processes. The course will explore the principles of person-centered care, with a focus on the support worker’s role in supporting family members and care partners and assisting clients who are experiencing alterations in functioning. Related communication skills and how to maintain a supportive relationship with families, clients, and the interprofessional team using a person-centered care approach are addressed.

Course details

Hours: 56
Credits: 4
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: None

Build courses into a credential

This course is part of the following program(s):


Credit transfer

Have you taken this course or an equivalent course? Contact the Credit Transfer Office.

Registration dates

Not all courses are offered each term.

Fall 2024 registration opens July 22, 2024. Winter 2025 registration opens November 4, 2024.

Delivery options

In person: classes held in person on a campus/site in a classroom/lab/shop/studio for the course duration

Online - Asynchronous: ​100% online delivery, no scheduled day or time course requirements with the instructor, assigned due dates

Online - Synchronous: 100% online delivery, scheduled day and time course requirements with the instructor, assigned due dates

Hybrid: any combination of in person, timetabled, on campus, online, and hyflex delivery