Special Education Program –
Introduction To Health Occupations

Introduction to Health Occupations CIP: 511614 (grade 9-10)

Course One:
This course introduces the student to skills associated with a health care worker and an exploration of career possibilities.  Students are introduced the medical ethics and law, and how to effectively communicate with patients and their families.  Students also are exposed to common medical terminology and abbreviations as well as basic anatomy and physiology.

Course Two:
During this course, students will learn about human growth and development and how good nutrition is important to both.  Hands-on skills such as measuring vital signs, controlling infection along with patient safety will be learned.  Students will also engage in clinical experiences.  Students will be come involved in skills necessary for competitions sponsored by Health Occupations Society of America (HOSA) and gain leadership skills. Lastly, they will become aware of current events in healthcare.

Course Three:
The third course is exploration into the various career pathways that each student may take including nurse assistant/patient caregiver, home health aide, EKG technician, Lab Assistant, Medical Assistant and Laboratory Skills.  They will explore careers as a physical therapy aide, central processing assistant, health information technician, health information technician, dental assistant and community service.  Through internet searches, guest speakers, and visitations to “job shadow”, students will gain the knowledge needed to pursue continuing high school education to reach a career goal.