Age-Specific/Transcultural Competencies for Healthcare Providers

Age-Specific Competencies

The manual is based on Erikson's eight stages of development, and covers topics appropriate for clinical and non-clinical staff. The program enhances your staff's age-specific knowledge, and provides a system for you to monitor and validate their skills and behaviors necessary for the care of all patients throughout the life cycle.

The manual addresses age-specific healthcare issues such as:

• growth and development stages

• general patient care topics

• patient safety issues (high fall risks, restraints, etc.)

• safe medication administration

• pain assessment and management across the life span (the fifth vital sign)

• other age-appropriate topics (child and elder abuse, domestic violence, ethical issues in patient care)

Transcultural Competencies

As appropriate, staff orientation addresses cultural diversity and sensitivity. (TJC)

Joint Commission standards  require that healthcare organizations include cultural diversity and sensitivity training as part of employee orientation and on an on-going basis to meet the needs of their patient populations served. The manual contains important information for staff as they care for patients from multicultural backgrounds, addressing cultural differences with regard to:

• Birth rituals and beliefs

• Family participation in care delivery

• Dietary preferences, beliefs and practices

• Alternative healthcare practices

• Death and dying beliefs and practices

Post-tests, answer keys, competency validation tools, and compliance tracking forms are included.