Current through Register 2024 Notice Reg. No. 38, September 20, 2024
(a) The basic training program for certification shall be a minimum of 120 hours and consist of at least the following:
(1) Introduction (4 hours).
(A) Definition, functions and responsibilities of a home health aide as a member of the health service team in a home health agency.
(B) Interpretation of the importance of understanding the employing agency's policies, including:
1. Employment practices.
2. Nursing policies and procedures.
3. Supervision.
4. Ethics and confidentiality.
(2) Interpretation of medical and social needs of people being served (20 hours).
(A) Basic simple description, in lay terms, of disease and its effects on the individual and the family.
(B) Personal adjustment of the individual and his family to illness and disability.
(3) Personal care services (70 hours). Personal care services include those supportive services which are required to help provide and maintain normal bodily and emotional comfort and to assist the patient toward independent living in a safe environment including at least:
(A) Assisting patients with personal hygiene.
(B) Assisting patient in self-care activities:
1. Bathing--tub, shower, bed.
2. Dressing and undressing.
3. Feeding.
(C) Assisting with mobility.
1. Getting in and out of bed, chair, wheelchair, toilet.
2. Walking with or without devices.
3. Assisting with exercises as ordered.
4. Positioning.
(4) Cleaning and care tasks in the home (10 hours) which includes at least:
(A) Home safety measures.
(B) Economical cleaning materials and method of use.
(C) Maintenance of cleanliness where dishes and food are stored.
(D) Principles of general cleanliness of environment.
(E) Handling of laundry.
(5) Nutrition (16 hours) which includes at least:
(A) Basic principles of diet.
(B) Meal planning and serving.
(C) Food purchasing.
(D) Food preparation, sanitation and storage.
(b) There shall be a minimum of 20 hours of clinical experience of which 15 hours are in personal services, 2 hours are in cleaning and care tasks and 3 hours are in nutrition.
(c) There shall be no more than 75 hours of classroom lecture.
(d) Training in personal care services shall be given by a registered nurse, preferably a public health nurse. Nutritionists, physical therapists, social workers and other health personnel may be involved in appropriate aspects of the training program.
(e) Personal care services training may be given at an acute hospital but the emphasis of the program must be on home care.
Note: Authority cited: Section 208(a), Health and Safety Code. Reference: Sections 1727 and 1734, Health and Safety Code.
