CERTIFICATION
QQI Level 5 Health Service Skills – Code 5M3782 / Patient Moving and Handling Certificate / Occupational First Aid Certificate
DURATION
1 year

Aim

The Hospice Care Course provides students with the knowledge, skills, and competence to work under supervision in providing support in a variety of healthcare settings or to progress to further and higher education and training.

This course aims to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and understanding to care for individuals with serious illnesses in a hospice setting. Students will learn about the unique needs of hospice patients, including pain and symptom management, psychological and spiritual support, and end-of-life care. With this foundation of knowledge, students can support the team providing care, communicate effectively with patients and families, and provide a warm and comforting environment.

Entry Requirements

Leaving Cert or its equivalent is advised. Mature students are welcome to apply. Work/life experience will be considered in lieu of formal education.

An interest in working as a Healthcare Professional and/or Work experience in the area would be an advantage.

Programme of Study

Elective Modules

  • Care Skills
  • Care of the Older Person
  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Palliative Care
  • Rehabilitation Support

Core Modules

  • Care Support
  • Communications
  • Work Experience (120 hours may be required)
  • Infection Prevention and Control
Modules offered may be subject to change due to resource demands.

Additional Training

Occupational First Aid and Patient Moving & Handling also offered.

Work Experience

Supervised clinical experience in nursing homes, hospitals, and other health facilities is incorporated into this course. This will take the form of one day per week for the academic year. Students are required to undertake Garda Vetting prior to work placement commencing.

Career Opportunities

The Healthcare Service Skills award is the Department of Health’s recommended qualification for all Healthcare Assistants working in the public and private sector. Graduates have excellent career opportunities in hospice and palliative care settings.

Progression

Graduates who achieve the required standard may progress to further studies in the FET sector at level 6 or to IT Colleges/Universities through the Higher Education Links Scheme as outlined in this brochure.