HCA Challenge

The Challenge Program is for applicants who are currently working as an uncertified health care aid in Manitoba and/or graduates from a foreign-trained nursing program.

The Program prepares graduates with previous work-related experience for a life long career as a health care aide, nurses aide, home care attendant, personal support worker, orderly and other similar job titles. Recognizing that students entering the Program already have the practical skill experience, the focus will be on theoretical components, primarily the roles and responsibilities  of a health care aide across care settings and working as an essential member of the health care team. In addition to gaining necessary knowledge and skill on helping individuals with activities of daily living, students will assist care recipients in preserving autonomy and promoting physical, emotional, mental and social needs across the continuum of care. The study will also include key topics in physical anatomy and related psychological functions from infancy to late adulthood, interpersonal communication and relationships and safety, preparing students for transition to employment in a variety of work settings.

This part time program includes essential courses delivered over an 11 week period (13 weeks for foreign trained nurses) including both theory and practical components, for a total of 33 (39 for foreign trained) hours of training. Applicants working as an uncertified health care aide will not be required to complete the clinical practicum. Foreign trained nurses  will be required to successfully complete a two (2) week practicum.