Spiritual Care
Spiritual Care
Overview & Objectives Spiritual care has always played a role in caring for the terminally ill and dying. This module is an overview of the fundamentals of spiritual care in hospice including the definition of spiritual care, guidelines and standards for chaplains and spiritual counselors, the spiritual assessment, and spiritual distress. It also includes a discussion of spiritual support related to the interdisciplinary team and hospice aides. The learning objectives for this module include:
  • Define the difference between spirituality and religion
  • Describe Medicare guidelines and professional standards for spiritual care
  • Discuss the fundamentals of spiritual care
  • Review the components of a spiritual assessment
  • Describe the signs and symptoms of spiritual distress and interventions
  • Apply principles of spiritual support by hospice aides
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Module Extra: Summary of Major Religions
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Nearing Death Awareness
Nearing Death Awareness
Overview & Objectives In 1992 a book called Final Gifts: Understanding the Special Awareness, Needs, and Communications of the Dying was published by hospice nurses Maggie Callahan and Patricia Kelley. In it they described common characteristics of nearing death awareness (NDA) in hospice patients, but is it delirium or a divine mystical experience? This module is a review of nearing death awareness by these authors and others. It describes the language patients might use to convey the experience and how hospice aides should respond, both to patients and families. It also addresses the needs of dying patients who display these behaviors and ways to facilitate a more peaceful death. The following learning objectives for this module include:
  • Describe the difference between near death experiences and nearing death awareness
  • Discuss descriptions and definitions of nearing death awareness
  • Identify examples of symbolic language that might be used by patients
  • Review how to respond to nearing death awareness in patients
  • Discuss examples of NDA communication with patients
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Module Extra: Guidelines for Communication
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Near Death Experiences
Near Death Experiences
Overview & Objectives With advances in cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the 1970’s an unexpected phenomenon began to occur worldwide:  reports of near death experiences happening with more frequency.  This inservice is a review of the research on the controversial subject of the near death experience (NDE).  It contains the growing global awareness of NDEs as well as the following:  Classic features, clinical circumstances, aftereffects, and the controversies surrounding them.  It also includes NDEs in children, blind people, and distressing NDEs, with easy to understand explanations about how they occur from scientists who are either believers or skeptics.  This module is a prerequisite to Nearing Death Awareness (NDA) on the website course list which is directly applicable to hospice aides, patients, and families.  The learning objectives for this module include:  
  • Describe the incidence of NDEs since the 1970's
  • List the clinical circumstances involving NDEs
  • List the classic features of NDEs
  • Discuss the aftereffects of NDEs
  • Analyze the controversies surrounding NDEs
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Group Exercise:  Discussion Topics
  • Module Extra:  NDE Quotes
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Everyday Relaxation Techniques
Everyday Relaxation Techniques
Overview & Objectives This inservice is a follow-up to the The Mind-Body Connection. It contains a brief review of the mind-body connection and highlights activities in everyday life that can be used to manage stress: Music, exercise, social connectedness, volunteering, humor, hobbies, nature, forgiveness, gratitude, random acts of kindness, and mindfulness. Completion of The Mind-Body Connection inservice is recommended as a prerequisite to this module. The emphasis for hospice aides is learning how to manage their own stress to be in a better position to help patients and families with their stress. This module contains the following learning objectives:
  • Read a brief review of the stress response
  • Identify everyday activities for stress management
  • Discuss the rationale for daily stress management
  • Review mindfulness in everyday life
  • Develop a regular practice of self-care
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Discussion Topics
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
The Mind-Body Connection
The Mind-Body Connection
Overview & Objectives There is no separation between the mind and body, which means that every thought we have has a physiological response in the body. This module is a primer on the mind-body connection, how it works, the stress response, and mind-body techniques that can be used to reduce stress. Practice tips are highlighted throughout. Mind-body techniques include deep breathing, imagery, progressive relaxation, meditation, and biofeedback. Hospice aides who understand and manage their own stress are in a better position to support patients and families under stress. Completion of this inservice is recommended before the Everyday Relaxation Techniques module. The learning objectives for this module include:
  • Review the prevalence of stress in our daily lives
  • Examine the physiology of stress
  • Define the stress response/relaxation response
  • Identify mind-body techniques for managing stress
  • Discuss stress management in self-care
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Activity Exercise: The Relaxation Response
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Helping Children Understand Death
Helping Children Understand Death
Overview & Objectives Parents often have questions about how much exposure children should have to a patient who is terminally ill or dying. This module contains a brief history of children and death from the past until the present. It reviews how much children understand about death at different ages and describes activities that may be helpful to children at different stages. Hospice aide tips are included if questions arise about how children can best be supported during this time. A section on how to prepare children as a patient gets closer to death is also included. This module contains the following learning objectives:
  • Review the history of children and death
  • Discuss issues regarding the exclusion of children in the dying process
  • Identify age groups and their understanding of death
  • Review preparing children for a loved one who is ill and dying
  • Discuss how hospice aides can help families with questions about children and death
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Group Exercise:  Share Your Experience
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Cultural Diversity in Mourning
Cultural Diversity in Mourning
Overview & Objectives The United States is a virtual melting pot of different cultures, customs, and belief systems. This inservice is a general overview of mourning traditions across a variety of cultures commonly served in hospice. It covers American populations of Asians, Hispanics, Africans, Haitians, Europeans, Native Americans, and traditional American customs. It also includes the most common religious beliefs within these cultures. It serves as a reference for hospice aides, but also acknowledges variations as a result of blended communities. All cultural expectations should be verified with the patient or family. This module contains the following learning objectives:
  • Review the nature of mourning
  • Discuss cultural differences among different populations served in hospice
  • Identify religious influences in cultural mourning
  • Review the hospice aide’s role in supporting cultural differences
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Group Exercise:  What is Your Heritage?
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Good Grief
Good Grief
Overview & Objectives Good Grief is an overview of the most common aspects of healthy grieving and various perspectives on grief in the context of hospice patients and families. It contains a brief historical view of grief from a societal standpoint and reviews the five stages of grief by Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. It also contains the four tasks of grieving by William Worden. With inspirational quotes throughout, a review of the factors that influence grief, how to cope with grief, and self-care during grief are discussed, as well as a summary on the hospice aide and grief. This module contains the following learning objectives:
  • Discuss societal views of grief
  • List and discuss the five stages of grief
  • Define Worden’s four tasks of grief/mourning
  • Identify factors influencing grief
  • Describe strategies for coping with grief
  • Review self-care measures during grief
  • Discuss self-reflections about grief as hospice aides
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Group Exercise:  Five Stages of Grief
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Palliative Sedation
Palliative Sedation
Overview & Objectives Palliative sedation has often been a controversial and poorly understood subject among the widespread population. This module is an overview of palliative sedation in hospice.  It covers the definition of palliative sedation and distinguishes it from euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide.  The bioethical principles involved in palliative sedation are discussed as well as a general review of protocol, documentation, patient assessment, and responsibilities of the care team and hospice aides.  The following learning objectives for this module include:
  • Define palliative sedation vs. euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide
  • Discuss bioethical principles and medical/legal issues in palliative sedation
  • Review palliative sedation policies, procedures, and protocol
  • Define clinical practices in palliative sedation
  • Discuss hospice aide self-reflection regarding palliative sedation
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Group Exercise:  Case Study
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s
Overview & Objectives Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia [see Dementias for a review of other types] that affects over five million people in the United States and an estimated 44.4 million worldwide as of 2013. The costs associated with Alzheimer’s care now and in the future are staggering. This inservice covers the history of Alzheimer’s, statistics, the stages of decline, hospice eligibility, and guidelines for care such as bathing, dressing, feeding, elimination, and sleep patterns. A section for family and caregiver support is also included. This module contains the following learning objectives:
  • Review the discovery and history of Alzheimer’s
  • Discuss Alzheimer’s statistics in the United States
  • Identify the stages of Alzheimer’s (mild, moderate, severe)
  • Discuss hospice eligibility and the FAST scale
  • Define the role of the hospice aide
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Group Exercise:  Share Your Experience
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Dementias
Dementias
Overview & Objectives The history of dementia in written texts dates back to the 7th century B.C., and by all accounts it was believed to be a normal part of aging for centuries. (Keep in mind that many people did not live long enough to develop dementia). It was not until the 1800’s, when anatomists discovered changes in the brain associated with dementia, that it was no longer considered a normal part of aging. Since then several types of dementia have been identified aside from Alzheimer’s, and this module contains a description of other common types seen in hospice. It contrasts the signs, symptoms, and lifespans of other dementias and differences among them [For an in-depth review of Alzheimer's see next module]. The following learning objectives for this module include:
  • Discuss the history of dementias
  • List types of dementias other than Alzheimer’s
  • Review lifespan and treatment of other dementias
  • Identify differences between other dementias and Alzheimer’s
  • Brief hospice aide review of immobility and feeding in dementia patients (Alzheimer’s module covers the hospice aide’s role in more depth)
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Group Exercise:  Matching
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Post Mortem Care
Post Mortem Care
Overview & Objectives Hospice aides may be asked to assist with post mortem care if they are present at the time of a patient’s death. This inservice covers the preparation and duties of hospice aides when providing post mortem care. It contains a brief review of the signs and symptoms of imminent death, and team procedures for attending a patient’s death. Specific steps for performing post mortem care within the scope of practice are covered, as well as providing support to the family at the time of death. A section describing unusual circumstances or traumatic deaths involving the medical examiner is also included in addition to a brief discussion of organ and tissue donation in hospice. This module contains the following learning objectives:
  • Describe symptoms of impending death and team procedures for attending a death
  • List the steps involved in post mortem care within the hospice aide scope of practice
  • Define the role of the medical examiner in hospice deaths
  • Review responsibilities before and after a traumatic, suspicious, or unexpected death
  • Discuss the issues surrounding organ/tissue donation and hospice
  • Summarize the responsibilities of the hospice aide in post mortem care
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Discussion Topics: Post Mortem Care
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Biohazardous Waste
Biohazardous Waste
Overview & Objectives Biohazardous waste is regulated by local, state, and federal agencies because it can pose a threat to humans. This inservice covers the fundamentals of managing biohazardous waste including definitions, fluids that can harbor infectious pathogens, handling and disposal of potentially infectious materials, proper containment and storage, household waste, and clean-up of biohazardous spills. It also covers policies, procedures, and regulations for occupational exposure to biohazardous materials as well as strategies for prevention. The learning objectives for this module include the following:
  • List potentially infectious body fluids
  • Define biohazardous materials
  • Explain proper handling, containment, storage, and disposal of biohazardous waste
  • Name strategies for preventing occupational exposure
  • Describe procedures required if an occupational exposure occurs
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Module Extra: Sample Flow Chart for Biohazardous Waste
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Infection Control
Infection Control
Overview & Objectives Before the germ theory of disease was discovered by Louis Pasteur in 1861, some physicians were offended if it was suggested that they wash their hands after handling cadavers (all together now…“ewww”). Thankfully, times have changed. This inservice explores the origins of infection control, as well as the fundamental principles of infection control and standard precautions for hospice aides. It covers routes of transmission, bloodborne pathogens, infection prevention, and personal protective equipment (PPE) based on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. It is specific to hospice aides within their scope of practice and includes tips for optimizing their own immune health. The learning objectives for this module include the following:
  • Review the history of standard precautions
  • List routes of transmission and portals of entry for infections
  • Describe bloodborne pathogens and modes of transmission
  • Explain the fundamentals of standard precautions for infection control
  • Utilize self-care measures to enhance immune health
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Brain Booster: Pathogen Particulars
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
MRSA
MRSA
Overview & Objectives Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, is responsible for many infections in humans that are difficult to treat with common antibiotics. This module covers a brief history of MRSA, how bacteria become antibiotic resistant, types of infections where MRSA is found, high risk populations, and how it is transmitted. It also includes the signs and symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, and measures to prevent the spread of MRSA for hospice aides. A brief review of the incidence of MRSA and ongoing research is also included. The following learning objectives for this module include:
  • Discuss the history of MRSA and how it developed
  • List the signs, symptoms, and at-risk populations for MRSA
  • Review how MRSA is diagnosed and treated
  • Identify measures to prevent the spread of MRSA
  • Review the prevalence of MRSA in the United States
  • Discuss the hospice aide’s role in preventing the spread of MRSA
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Group Exercise:  Matching
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis
Overview & Objectives It is believed that tuberculosis existed long before humans inhabited the planet. The first evidence of tuberculosis in humans dates back to the Neolithic era 9,000 years ago. Over centuries and eons it has gone through cycles of low incidence and risk, to epidemic proportions and massive mortality rates. This inservice reviews the history of TB, causes, how it is spread, symptoms, the incidence and risk factors, testing for tuberculosis, treatments, and the global implications of tuberculosis. It also includes a section describing the role of hospice aides and measures used to prevent tuberculosis in hospice settings. The following learning objectives for this module include:
  • Discuss the origin and causes of tuberculosis
  • List the symptoms of tuberculosis
  • Review the incidence and risk factors for patients and healthcare workers
  • Review diagnosis and testing for tuberculosis
  • Discuss treatment for latent and active tuberculosis
  • Discuss the hospice aide’s role in tuberculosis prevention
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Group Exercise:  Matching
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Boundaries in Hospice
Boundaries in Hospice
Overview & Objectives Boundaries are especially important in hospice where patients and families are more vulnerable and need increasing support as the patient moves toward death. The purpose of this module is to help hospice aides define boundaries and understand the potential for crossing them. It includes examples of boundary issues across the continuum from minor to serious, consequences and prevention, as well as identifying the factors that can increase the risk of boundary violations. This module contains the following learning objectives:
  • Describe relationship dynamics and boundary issues
  • List examples of less serious to very serious boundary violations
  • Review the consequences of serious boundary violations
  • Identify individuals who are at risk for violating boundaries
  • Discuss prevention of boundary violations
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Group Exercise:  What Would You Do?
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Hospice Aides & HIPAA
Hospice Aides & HIPAA
Overview & Objectives All healthcare personnel must maintain patient privacy and confidentiality at all times based on the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The purpose of this module is to help hospice aides identify potential violations of HIPAA privacy rules, and be proactive in preventing patient information disclosures. It includes key terms, examples of personal health information (PHI), HIPAA in the hospice setting, preventing HIPAA violations, and legal consequences of violating HIPAA privacy rules. It also includes examples of HIPAA violations in the news. This module contains the following learning objectives:
  • Define HIPAA and protected health information (PHI)
  • Identify HIPAA challenges in the workplace
  • Apply preventive measures to the role of hospice aide
  • Examine the legal consequences of HIPAA violations
  • Summarize the responsibilities of the hospice aide and patient confidentiality
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Brain Booster:  HIPAA Violation or Not?
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Hospice Aides & Medicare
Hospice Aides & Medicare
Overview & Objectives This module serves as a reference for hospice aides to become familiar with the hospice regulations set forth by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS) in the Conditions of Participation (CoP). It focuses on section §418.76 which outlines the CMS requirements for hospice aides, as well as additional sections of the CoPs pertaining to hospice aides as members of the interdisciplinary team. It includes an introduction to Medicare guidelines for hospice aides, training and education, assignments and duties, and the supervision of a registered nurse. The learning objectives for this module include:
  • Review section §418.76 of the Conditions of Participation
  • Define hospice training and education for aides
  • Describe the responsibilities of the hospice aide
  • Review responsibilities of the registered nurse and hospice aides
  • Review additional CoP sections that apply to hospice aides as an interdisciplinary team member
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Group Exercise:  Which CoP Applies?
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart
Symptom Management
Symptom Management
Overview & Objectives An overview of the most common symptoms in hospice patients is covered in this module, as well as general causes, and hospice aide interventions. It is written to assist hospice aides with symptom management within their scope of practice and in the context of bodily systems. Symptoms are divided into sections under neurological, respiratory, gastrointestinal/urinary, circulatory, integumentary, and general symptoms.  NOTE:  It is recommended that this module be combined with the Pain Management in-service which focuses on pain management only.  This module contains the following learning objectives:
  • Review common patient symptoms in hospice
  • Analyze causes of common symptoms
  • Discuss hospice aide interventions
  • Identify guidelines for reporting symptoms
  • Summarize symptom management for hospice aides
Contents
  • Learning Module
  • Group Exercise: Discussion Topics/Case Study
  • Test Questions
  • Instructor Answer Key
  • Attendance Sheet
  • Evaluation Form
  • Certificate of Attendance
$25.00 Add to cart