Program Overview

The HSP certificate prepares learners to support clinical teams in hospitals, clinics, and community health settings. Emphasis is placed on patient-centered care, communication, Infection Prevention & Control (IPC), documentation, and safe work practices that complement nursing and allied health programs.

Duration & Study Pattern

• Duration: 3–6 months (theory + practicals + attachment)
• Mode: Full-time / Part-time / Weekend
• Delivery: Lectures, skills lab, simulations, supervised facility attachment
• Assessment: CATs (theory & practical), OSCE-style final practical, portfolio/logbook

Core Modules

• Health Systems & Roles of the Health Service Provider
• Professional Ethics, Confidentiality & Patient Rights
• Communication & Customer Care in Healthcare (English/Kiswahili)
• Infection Prevention & Control (IPC): hand hygiene, PPE, waste segregation
• Basic First Aid & Emergency Response (scene safety, ABC, recovery position)
• Vital Signs Observation: temperature, pulse, respiration, BP (observation + recording)
• Patient Assistance & Safety: positioning, mobility, wheelchair handling, fall prevention
• Records & Documentation: registers, referral notes, data privacy basics
• Housekeeping in Clinical Areas: cleaning, disinfection, linen handling
• Health Promotion & Community Outreach basics
• Digital Literacy for Health: email etiquette, basic EMR concepts, data security
• Occupational Safety & Health (OSH) for healthcare settings

Clinical Skills (Competency-Based)

• Demonstrate correct hand hygiene and PPE donning/doffing
• Prepare bed spaces; admit, transfer, and discharge support
• Assist with feeding, bathing, toileting, and comfort measures under supervision
• Measure and chart vital signs; escalate abnormalities to clinicians
• Safely transport patients and specimens; maintain chain of custody
• Maintain ward inventory and basic stores records

Entry Requirements

• KCSE D (plain) or equivalent; mature entry considered
• Good conduct & medical fitness as per institutional policy
• Basic literacy in English/Kiswahili

Career & Progression

• Hospital/Clinic Support Staff, Ward Assistant, Patient Attendant
• Community Health Assistant (with additional CHU requirements)
• Progression options: Nursing, Community Health, Health Records, MLT (per entry policies)

Frequently Asked

Is this a clinical practice license?
No. This certificate prepares support personnel who work under supervision of licensed practitioners.

Do I need a uniform?
Yes—details are provided after admission (scrubs, closed shoes, name tag).

Will I get placement for attachment?
VMTC facilitates placements with partner facilities subject to availability.