The Power of Peer Support: NACC Membership Eases CPSW Burnout

Caregivers and Personal Support Workers (CPSWs) are crucial frontline caregivers who provide essential care and support to vulnerable individuals. These dedicated professionals often face significant challenges and stress, leading to burnout. However, CPSWs who are members of the National Association of Certified Caregivers (NACC) have the advantage of a support system that can significantly ease the burden of burnout. In this article, we explore why CPSWs who belong to the NACC experience greater resilience and well-being due to the support they receive from their peers within the organization.

 

One of the primary benefits of NACC membership for CPSWs is the opportunity to connect with peers who share similar experiences and challenges. The NACC provides a platform for CPSWs to come together, share their stories, and empathize with one another. This shared understanding fosters a sense of belonging and validation, which can be immensely powerful in combating burnout. Knowing that others have gone through similar struggles and have found ways to cope can instill hope and resilience in CPSWs.

 

Belonging to the NACC offers CPSWs a network of emotional support. Within this community, individuals can freely express their emotions, vent their frustrations, and seek guidance without judgment. The camaraderie that develops among members enables them to lean on one another during difficult times. Sharing personal experiences, challenges, and coping strategies not only alleviates the emotional burden but also provides a sense of solidarity and support. Knowing that they are not alone in their struggles empowers CPSWs to navigate burnout more effectively.

 

The NACC serves as a valuable resource hub for CPSWs, providing access to a wealth of knowledge and best practices. Through online forums, workshops, and educational materials, members can stay updated on the latest advancements and techniques in caregiving. This access to information equips CPSWs with the tools they need to enhance their skills and approach their work more effectively. By continuously learning and adapting, CPSWs can prevent burnout by implementing strategies that prioritize self-care and overall well-being.

 

Membership in the NACC opens doors to various professional development opportunities. The organization offers training programs, certifications, and workshops specifically designed for CPSWs. These educational initiatives not only enhance their caregiving abilities but also provide valuable insights into self-care and stress management techniques. By investing in their professional growth, CPSWs gain a stronger sense of purpose and competence, reducing the risk of burnout.

 

The NACC serves as a powerful advocate for the rights and well-being of CPSWs. By raising awareness of the challenges they face, the organization works to improve working conditions and promote fair compensation. This advocacy instills a sense of empowerment in CPSWs, as they know they have a collective voice fighting for their rights. Feeling supported and valued in their profession contributes to higher job satisfaction and reduces the likelihood of burnout.

 

CPSWs who are members of the NACC have a distinct advantage in combating burnout due to the immense support they receive from their peers within the organization. Through shared experiences, emotional support, access to resources, and professional development opportunities, NACC membership empowers CPSWs to navigate the challenges of their profession with greater resilience and well-being. Recognizing the crucial role that peer support plays in alleviating burnout, it becomes evident that fostering such communities is essential for the long-term success and mental well-being of CPSWs.

 

To learn more about how you can become a certified CPSW and join as a member of NACC, click on the link below.

 

www.ccscare.co/online-psw-diploma/

PSW / Caregiver, a Comparison of Self Employment Vs Being an Employee

Being a Caregiver/Personal Support Worker (CPSW) is a deeply rewarding career that involves providing compassionate care and support to individuals in need. While many CPSWs choose to work as employees in nursing homes or hospitals, there is an increasing trend towards self-employment in this field. This article examines the advantages of being a self-employed CPSW compared to being a CPSW employee, while also considering the required academic training hours for both options.

 

Flexibility and Independence:

 

One significant advantage of being a self-employed CPSW is the flexibility it offers. Self-employed CPSWs have the freedom to set their own schedules, deciding when and where they want to work. This level of autonomy allows for better work-life balance, accommodating personal commitments and preferences. However, it’s important to note that both self-employed and employed CPSWs must undergo adequate training to ensure they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to provide quality care.

 

Enhanced Job Satisfaction:

 

Choosing to be self-employed as a CPSW enables individuals to select their clients, leading to a more personalized and fulfilling work experience. By building long-term relationships, self-employed CPSWs can provide individualized care tailored to specific needs and preferences. This personalized approach often results in increased job satisfaction and a sense of fulfillment derived from making a positive impact on someone’s life.

 

Higher Earning Potential:

 

Self-employed CPSWs have a greater earning potential compared to CPSW employees. By negotiating rates directly with clients or agencies, self-employed CPSWs can factor in their experience, specialized skills, and the level of care required. Bypassing intermediaries allows for higher hourly rates and increased income. Nevertheless, it is essential for both self-employed and employed CPSWs to meet  training requirements to ensure they provide competent care.

 

Diverse Work Environments:

 

Self-employment as a CPSW grants individuals the opportunity to work in various settings beyond traditional healthcare facilities. Unlike CPSW employees confined to a single institution, self-employed CPSWs can offer their services in clients’ homes, assisted living facilities, or community centers. This diversity exposes CPSWs to different care scenarios, broadens their skill set, and provides experience with diverse client needs. Regardless of employment type, CPSWs must fulfill the necessary training requirements to deliver competent care in different environments.

 

Professional Growth and Autonomy:

 

As self-employed professionals, CPSWs have the autonomy to drive their own professional growth. They can specialize in specific areas of care or pursue additional training and certifications aligned with their interests and career goals. This independence enables self-employed CPSWs to continuously enhance their skills and knowledge, keeping up with industry trends and best practices. However, it is crucial for both self-employed and employed CPSWs to meet the mandatory academic training hours to ensure their competence in delivering quality care.

 

Training Requirements:

 

The required academic training hours for CPSWs may vary depending on the jurisdiction. In general, both self-employed and employed CPSWs must complete a formal CPSW training program that combines classroom instruction, practical training, and supervised clinical experience. The number of training hours typically ranges from around 800 to 1000, depending on the region or country. Completing the mandated training is essential for CPSWs to possess the necessary knowledge and skills to deliver safe and effective care to their clients, regardless of their employment status.

 

While working as a CPSW employee in nursing homes or hospitals has its merits, self-employment offers unique advantages. The flexibility, independence, higher earning potential, diverse work environments, and opportunities for professional growth make self-employment an appealing option for CPSWs. However, it is vital for all CPSWs, whether self-employed or employed, or learning while earning, to complete the required training hours to ensure certification and maintain their skill level.

 

Learn how to become certified in working as both an employee and self employed CPSW through the link below.

 

Online Certified Caregiver/PSW Diploma

What skills will you need to be a Certified Caregiver / Personal Support Worker?

The role of a Certified Caregiver/Personal Support Worker (CPSW) is crucial in providing compassionate care and assistance to individuals in need. CPSWs work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and private homes, catering to the diverse needs of their clients. To excel in this rewarding profession, CPSWs must possess a unique set of skills and knowledge. This article explores the essential skills required to be a competent and compassionate CPSW.

Empathy and Compassion:
At the core of being a successful CPSW is the ability to empathize with individuals and provide compassionate care. Empathy allows CPSWs to understand the challenges faced by their clients, fostering a supportive environment that promotes physical and emotional well-being. Compassion ensures that the CPSW consistently puts the needs of their clients first, treating them with dignity and respect.

Anatomy and Physiology:
CPSWs are greatly aided in their job by having knowledge of anatomy and physiology. Understanding the human body’s structure and function allows CPSWs to provide more effective and specialized care to their clients. Knowledge of anatomy enables them to identify and locate specific body parts, which is essential for tasks like administering medication, performing therapeutic exercises, or providing wound care. Additionally, a solid grasp of physiology helps CPSWs comprehend how various body systems work together, allowing them to anticipate potential complications and respond appropriately to changes in their clients’ health. By having a strong foundation in anatomy and physiology, CPSWs can enhance their decision-making abilities, improve the quality of care they deliver, and contribute to better health outcomes for their clients.

Communication Skills:
Effective communication is paramount for CPSWs to establish trust and understanding with their clients. Clear and concise communication allows CPSWs to gather relevant information, provide instructions, and address any concerns. Strong listening skills are equally important, enabling CPSWs to comprehend client needs, preferences, and concerns, facilitating personalized care.

Personal Care and Health Knowledge:
CPSWs must possess a solid foundation of personal care and health knowledge. This includes understanding hygiene practices, assisting with daily activities (bathing, dressing, and grooming), and managing medications. Furthermore, they should have knowledge of common health conditions, such as diabetes, dementia, and mobility limitations, enabling them to provide appropriate care and support.

Adaptability and Problem-Solving:
Every client is unique, and their needs may change over time. CPSWs need to be adaptable and flexible in their approach to cater to evolving requirements. They should be skilled at problem-solving, capable of identifying challenges and finding creative solutions. Whether it’s adjusting care routines or addressing unexpected situations, adaptability and problem-solving abilities are crucial for CPSWs to provide optimal care.

Safety and Emergency Response:
Safety is of paramount importance when working as a CPSW. Knowledge of safety procedures, such as proper body mechanics, infection control, and proper lifting techniques, helps prevent injuries to both the CPSW and the client. Additionally, CPSWs should be trained in emergency response protocols, including CPR and first aid, to handle critical situations promptly and effectively.

Documentation and Record-Keeping:
Accurate and timely documentation is essential in the healthcare field. CPSWs must be proficient in recording observations, care provided, and any changes in the client’s condition. Documentation ensures effective communication among the care team and helps monitor client progress and identify any concerns or improvements needed in their care plan.

Being a CPSW demands a unique combination of skills and knowledge. Empathy, anatomy/physiology, communication, personal care expertise, adaptability, problem-solving, safety consciousness, and documentation skills are crucial for delivering comprehensive care. With these attributes, CPSWs can make a positive impact on the lives of their clients, promoting their well-being and ensuring a high standard of personalized support.

Find out how you can become a Certified Caregiver/Personal Support Worker today through the link below.

Online Certified Caregiver/PSW Diploma

What PSW Course Should I Take?

Have you ever considered a career in healthcare?

Thought about becoming a PSW but aren’t sure which college program is best?

These decisions aren’t simple; and with the lack of recognition between localities, in regards to PSW diplomas, the choice you make can determine whether you’re considered ‘qualified’ in other jurisdictions. As if that wasn’t difficult enough, add the fact that most college PSW courses are severely lacking in physiology and anatomy; two fundamental understandings to working as a PSW. Lastly, let’s not forget that colleges are charging a premium, with the average cost of tuition for PSW programs being $2,500-$9,000 (and much higher for international students).

What if I told you there was a way to get your PSW diploma online, at your own pace?

What if it only cost $1500?

What if it certified you to work as a PSW in any jurisdiction?

I won’t keep you in suspense, there is a way, and it’s our CCS Care Academy’s Online Certified Caregiver/PSW Course.

This course has been developed over decades of work, and will not only give you the training to meet the standard of care, but will also give you the tools necessary to stand out among PSW workers. Take a look at what one of our alumni had to say about the course.

“Being a mother of two small children, taking this course gave me the opportunity to still be involved with family, work a full-time job in healthcare, and study for my CPSW in between. My overall experience taking the CPSW was amazing and I would recommend this program to everyone who is looking to be a part of the healthcare team.” – SM

We consider it part of the CCS Care team’s core principles to ensure that our alumni are able to,

  1. Afford the monetary expense of their training
  2. Receive more knowledge than what colleges consider ‘required’
  3. Work on their diploma wherever they are, and at their own pace
  4. Become qualified to work as a PSW in any jurisdiction

If you’re looking for employment in the growing healthcare industry, and want to become a certified PSW; there is no better way than through our online PSW course. We look forward to helping you reach the next step in your career. For more information on how you can enrol, click on the link below.

Request more information: Online Certified Caregiver/PSW Diploma

When is caregiving a vocation and not a job or profession

Caregiving is often thought of as a job or profession, but for many, it is much more than that. Caregiving can be a vocation, a calling, something that one feels deeply compelled to do. Those who view a life as a PSW as a vocation see it as a way to make a difference in the lives of others, to serve a higher purpose, and to find fulfillment in giving of themselves. For them, caregiving is not just a way to earn a paycheck, but a way of life.

For those who feel called to becoming a PSW as a vocation, it is a deeply personal and meaningful choice. They see their work as a way to honor the dignity of others, to offer compassion and kindness, and to be present for those who need support. They often have a strong sense of empathy and the ability to connect with others on a deep level. They view their work as a way to make a positive impact in the world, and to live out their values in a tangible way.

In many ways, caregiving as a vocation is a form of service. It is a way to put the needs of others before one’s own, to offer care and support to those who are vulnerable or in need. Those who view caregiving as a vocation often find great joy and fulfillment in their work, even in the midst of challenges and difficulties. They are driven by a sense of purpose and a desire to make a difference, and they see their work as a way to contribute to the greater good.

If you feel caregiving is a vocation for you, get more information here.

New plan for Ontario government – self-directed care

The latest plan of the Ontario government is to make PSWs employees of the state to deliver home care. We have become a nanny province with the Wynn government getting into the business of providing home care directly, quietly creating a new agency.

Five years ago, I did an extensive review of agency delivery of care, and how bad the actual care was compared to the Internet web site of the CCACs and LHINs propaganda of care for Ontario. This study showed the old 80/20 rule of productivity and costs, and the meagre help for seniors trying to manage their health at home. The least paid and least recipient of care was the little old lady needing care in her home, and the least paid was the PSW in a long line of bureaucrats that were at the trough getting their high wages and benefits, while the PSW and Care Recipient received the least.

This latest announcement, before Wynn pirogues the government, had Health Minister Hoskins escaping to another federal Liberal appointment of Pharma care, while dismantling one bureaucracy, CMHC, and creating a new one with PSWs instead of nurses.

If the doors on this delivery of all publicly funded home care are due to begin this spring, with full roll-out by March 2021, and if this happens, our concern will be for the families that are shouldering the burden of even more shrinking dollars for care, and that, of course, leads to the burden of caregiving for the disabled. Think about this if you cannot afford care and you are disabled. You will have to choose euthanasia. Thankfully, David Hoskins was protected from this scenario, as the United States, in their humanity, provided him with a lifetime of care providers.

About 729,000 people received provincially-funded home care services in 2015-16 delivered by PSWs and nurses. The rising costs, associated with all the agency employees who are not in direct service, leaves Ontario with a budget they cannot supply, and individuals in the agencies are paid enormous fees that Ontario, if they want to be able to offer care for seniors to remain in their homes, need to consider direct care by PSWs as they do in many countries in the world. The micro management of government in Ontario is increasing our costs and creating discrepancies in service.

Let us get these high priced bureaucrats out of business.

How do I get a job as a PSW?

The 1000 hour CCSCARE ONLINE Academy Program for Personal Support Workers, and health care aides is the first in Canada to teach online, while students are working in front line health care services or deciding on a career as a Certified Caregiver/PSW.

PSW training gives you better skills – and better opportunities

Many students are already practising their skills with jobs in the front lines. They have chosen this as a career after working in hospitals, cleaning in age homes and supporting other front line health care workers. “They have practical on-the-job success, and have decided on a career as a PSW,” said Gail Acton the author and originator of the PSW in 1996, then called Elder Care Workers.

Today there are over 30,000 graduates of PSW training, both locally and internationally, as members in the National Association of Certified Caregivers/PSWs.

A recent graduate, Corrie, who had 10 years of work experience, took the online course for Certified PSWs, an intensive health science study in Anatomy and Physiology, in addition to the standard PSW criteria of Ontario of 350 academic hours with a minimum of 40 hours of Anatomy and Physiology.

Gail Acton has advocated for changes with the MTCU (Ontario Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities) since 2000 towards the improvement of training for PSWs. Today, she delivers online studies globally for nurses in other countries wanting to immigrate and get jobs as nurses in Canada; as well as doctors who can’t work in Canada, but can work as PSWs, and realize this is an opportunity to continue to honour their profession and work in a field where they have a commitment and passion for care.

Great job opportunities for PSWs

As an experienced international online trainer, Gail looks for someone with heart and love for care giving before suggesting a career choice as a PSW. There is a shortage of PSWs, and employers are just getting used to paying $20.00 and up an hour. Some government agencies are still paying less than the new minimum wage, but these are all adjustments in the labour market, says Acton. “PSWs are professionals and are paid $20.00 an hour and up for the care of our seniors and children. Under the National Association of Certified Caregivers/PSWs (NACC/PSW) with 30,000 members, there is a registration and ongoing training for all professionals to provide care, commitment, competency, co-operation and service. The CPSW is challenged to maintain a professional attitude, regardless of circumstances, and they are challenged physically and mentally with daily reports and attention to their clients.