UNIT 100V - Nursing Unit Assistant Program
Course Description
The Nursing Unit Assistant Program equips you with the skills to provide essential administrative support to nursing staff and healthcare teams. As a Nursing Unit Assistant (also known as a Hospital Unit Clerk), you will manage patient records, coordinate appointments, and communicate with healthcare professionals to ensure smooth unit operations. Nursing Unit Assistants play a vital role in supporting patient care by maintaining an organized and efficient clinical environment.
This part-time evening and weekend program is designed to prepare you for a dynamic role in healthcare administration within hospitals and other healthcare facilities. The curriculum covers key areas such as medical terminology, hospital procedures, and clerical skills to ensure you are fully prepared for this fast-paced, detail-oriented job.
You will learn from experienced unit clerks and expert instructors through a combination of theory and practical exercises. This program culminates with a hands-on practicum in a healthcare setting, which provides valuable real-world experience. The practicum has a flexible schedule during the final months of the program, allowing you to apply your skills in a working environment.
As a Nursing Unit Assistant, the primary responsibilities include performing a range of clerical duties and supporting unit operations in a team-based environment. Key tasks involve transcribing and processing modified physician orders, managing patient admissions, transfers, and discharges, and organizing patient charts and the Electronic Health Record. In the role Nursing Unit Assistants coordinate appointments, liaise with other departments and hospitals, and facilitate client admissions and discharges. Additionally, supporting staff by maintaining essential documentation, assist patients and visitors, and address patient concerns. Inventory management of supplies, handling some paper documentation, and monitoring various online systems are also integral parts of the role.
Course Outline
Modules
- Hospital Overview
- Pharmacology & Medical Terminology
- Transcribing and Processing Medication Orders
- Hospital Software
- Electronic Health Records
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Processing Laboratory & Diagnostic and Interventional Orders
- Processing Surgical and Treatment Orders
- Practicum
Practicum Placement
You will complete a 120-hour practicum at the end of your program. A practicum is a short-term, hands-on work placement that is integral to the Nursing Unit Assistant Program, offering valuable exposure to a real-world work environment. You will be assigned a practicum placement mentor and will also be matched with a Nursing Unit Assistant mentor. Unit Assistant mentors are experienced Nursing Unit Assistants who have volunteered to coach and guide you. You will be matched with a practicum placement, the practicum schedule is determined and approved by you, your mentor, and the placement mentor.
Notes
NOTE: Training is delivered both in person and online, locations are subject to change at any time.
Online Synchronous: A portion of this training is delivered through online synchronous learning. Classes happen live in a virtual setting. Using Zoom, students and the instructor meet at scheduled times for real-time lessons and discussions, just like in a traditional classroom. You can join from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing you to learn from the comfort of your own space while still benefiting from live interaction and immediate feedback.
Technology requirements:
- Laptop or Desktop Computer, you need to be able to watch videos during class, open PDF files, and chat with other learners
- Access to the Internet.
- A webcam and a headset, microphone, or speakers for your computer will be required.
Important Information:
This program includes a mandatory practicum. To participate, you must provide:
Criminal Record Check:
A satisfactory Criminal Record Check, including Vulnerable Sector Screening.
Immunization Records:
While immunizations are recommended but not required, you must provide a copy of your immunization records for our records.
Students will receive instructions on how to apply for and submit this information once the program begins.
Recommendations
This Nursing Unit Assistant Program is designed to prepare you for the dynamic and essential role of supporting healthcare teams within hospital units, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. While there are no formal prerequisites for this program, it is beneficial for applicants to have completed Grade 12, complete a Medical Terminology (MOA 155) course and demonstrate a typing speed of at least 40 words per minute.
Employers often expect these skills in Nursing Unit Assistant roles. A solid academic background, familiarity with medical language, and proficient typing ability can ease the transition into the program’s curriculum and prepare you for real-world healthcare settings.