Course Catalog VGMEd

 

VGMU Online Learning features more than 300 courses interactive courses in 18 categories for healthcare providers, from annual compliance to job specific curriculum, billing and reimbursement training, clinical rehab, respiratory, human resources, retail, customer service, and more. 

Browse through our course catalog to learn about training offered in Clinical - Rehab, Clinical - Respiratory, Disease Management, HIPAA, Home Modifications,  Human Relations, Wound Care, and more. Or, click here to view our course catalog for Canada. 

 

 
 

Course titles and name(s) of course author(s):

 

Accreditation Competencies

ACC001 - Glucometer Competency
Author: Belson-Hanwright Videos

This course allows the student to meet accreditation competency requirements for instructing patients on the proper use of blood glucose meters (known as "glucometers"). There are many different glucometers on the market today, all with various features. This course reviews the standard items taught with all glucometers. Before completing this course, you should check your accreditation agency's specific requirements for competency. No continuing education credit is offered for the completion of this course.

 
ACC002 - Nebulizer System Competency
Author: Belson-Hanwright Videos

This course allows the student to meet accreditation competency requirements for instructing patients on the proper use of nebulizer systems. There are many different nebulizer systems on the market today, all with various features. This course reviews the standard items taught with all nebulizer systems. Before completing this course, you should check your accreditation agency's specific requirements for competency. No continuing education credit is offered for the completion of this course.

 
ACC003 - Therapeutic Shoe Competency
Author: Belson-Hanwright Videos

This course allows the student to meet accreditation competency requirements for instructing patients on the proper use of therapeutic shoes (often referred to as "diabetic shoes"). This course does NOT meet therapeutic shoe fitting certification required by some states. You should contact your state licensure board to determine if your state requires therapeutic shoe fitting certification. There are many different therapeutic shoes on the market today. This course reviews the standard items taught with all therapeutic shoes. Before completing this course, you should check your accreditation agency's specific requirements for competency. No continuing education credit is offered for the completion of this course.

 
 

Aging Populations

AGE001 - The Aging Process
Author: Jim Belson

This course is the first in a series of courses that examines the aging process and its effects on the human body. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the difference between chronological, biological and psychological age; 2. Explain how healthy aging is achieved; 3. Describe the effects of aging on cells and organs; 4. Describe the effects of aging on all the systems of the body; 5. Explain interventions and methods to mitigate unhealthy effects of aging; 6. Define geriatric syndromes and describe the differences between the experiences of older and younger people with respect to certain disorders; 7. Describe the indirect influences that affect the aging process. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE002 - Communicating with Aging Populations
Author: Chelsie Luhring

Spanish version: AGE002S - Comunicándose con los Adultos Mayores

While effective communication should be a focus of home medical equipment specialists with all ages of patients, special attention should be paid to working with older adults as an increase in age can bring about medical conditions that may require more patience and an adjustment in how one provides and receives medical information. This course includes tips on how to better facilitate communication with older adult populations.

 

Objectives

After completing this course, you will be able to:

  1. Explain why communicating effectively with older adult patients is important.
  2. Explain how to communicate effectively with aging patients in the home and HME store.
  3. Describe the benefits of effective communication.
  4. Recognize the conditions and diseases that affect communication within aging adult populations.

 To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE003 - Aging and Ethnicity

Home medical equipment employees working with elderly patients from a variety of ethnic groups need to be aware of the cultural differences among those groups in order to build an effective, beneficial relationship that fosters good communication and compliance. This course provides an overview of ethnogeriatrics which is the influence of ethnicity and culture on the health and well-being of older adults. Learning objectives: 1. Identify how ethnicity influences attitudes and behaviors; 2. Explain how to respect cultural differences that affect health care decisions; 3. Identify examples of cultural awareness and sensitivity to improve communication with the aging of diverse ethnicities. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
AGE004 - Aging and Memory
Author: Jim Belson

Because effective communication relies so heavily on memory, knowing how aging effects memory is essential to the successful interaction of HME services providers and patients. This course provides an overview of how aging affects memory. Learning objectives: 1. Explain how memory and the brain change as we age; 2. Describe the differences between normal aging and abnormal aging of the brain; 3. Differentiate the types of memory that decline as we age and the types that do not; 4. Explain how memory decline can affect caregiving; 5. Describe methods to help maintain and improve memory function. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE005 - Overview of Alzheimer's Disease
Author: Jim Belson

Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and eventually even the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. This course provides an overview of the prevalence, causes and risk factors of the disease. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the changes in the brain that occur with Alzheimer’s disease; 2. List the early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease; 3. Explain the causes of Alzheimer’s disease; 4. Explain the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease; 5. Cite examples of the ongoing research associated with Alzheimer’s disease. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE006 - Aging and Depression
Author: Jim Belson

HME staff who interact with the aging population are almost certainly going to be interacting with clients suffering from depression. This course provides an overview of the causes and risk factors, signs and symptoms, and diagnosis and treatment of depression in the elderly population. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the effects of depression on the aging population; 2. Identify the causes of depression in the elderly; 3. Explain the difference between depression and dementia in older people; 4. Identify the signs and symptoms of depression; 5. Explain the treatment and prevention options for depression in the elderly. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE007 - Aging and Diabetes
Author: Jim Belson

Managing diabetes in the elderly presents many challenges. This course provides an overview of those challenges and how they can be met. Learning objectives: 1. Explain how the aging process contributes to diabetes as well as how diabetes contributes to the aging process; 2. Explain the difference between glucose intolerance and insulin resistance; 3. Identify the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes and the tests used in its diagnosis; 4. Describe the complications of Type 2 diabetes in the elderly; 5. Describe the methods for managing diabetes in the elderly and how aging affects those methods. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE009 - Aging and Sleep Disorders
Author: Jim Belson

This course reviews the effects, causes and treatment options of sleep disorders among the elderly population. Learning objectives: 1. Describer the different stages of normal sleep and how they are regulated; 2. Describe the normal changes in sleep patterns as we age; 3. Explain the major sleep disorders and how they are caused in the elderly; 4. Explain the treatment options for sleep problems in the elderly; 5. Describe the methods to help prevent sleep problems in the elderly. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE010 - Aging and Cardiovascular Disease
Author: Jim Belson

This course will explain how the aging process contributes to changes in the cardiovascular system. 

Learning objectives: 1. Explain how the aging process changes the structures and functions of the heart, blood vessels and blood; 2. Describe how aging processes become diseases and what causes them; 3. Identify the cardiovascular diseases that most affect the elderly; 4. Describe the symptoms of the cardiovascular diseases that affect the elderly; 5. Describe the treatments for and preventions of cardiovascular diseases for the elderly. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE011 - Diabetes and Depression in the Elderly
Author: Jim Belson

This course examines the relationship between diabetes and depression among the elderly population.  To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the relationship between the elderly and depression; 2. Describe the signs and symptoms of depression in the elderly diabetic; 3. Explain the relationship between depression and diabetes in the elderly; 4 Explain how the physical and psychosocial changes related to the aging process affect diabetes and depression; 5. Describe the treatment/management options for depression in the elderly with diabetes. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE012 - Marketing to Seniors
Author: Jim Belson and Rob Baumhover

This course provides some effective approaches to selling to an ever-growing market of Americans: seniors, those 60 years of age and older. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the growth and potential of seniors as a market; 2. Describe how baby boomers are changing the senior market and the importance of family caregivers in that market; 3. Explain the difference between chronological age and cognitive age; 4. Explain the importance of building relationships and word of mouth referrals when marketing to seniors; 5. Explain the role of email and social media in marketing to seniors; 6. Recite the guidelines regarding print/type in advertising materials for seniors; 7. Explain the role of customer service in selling to the elderly; 8. Demonstrate how to appeal to seniors in the retail store.  To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE013 - Aging and Chronic Kidney Disease
Author: Jim Belson

This course will explain how the aging process contributes to chronic kidney disease. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the functions of the kidneys; 2. Describe the effects of aging on the kidneys and chronic kidney disease (CKD); 3. Explain the causes and risk factors of CKD; 4. Describe the symptoms of CKD; 5. Discuss what can be done to treat and prevent CKD in the elderly.  To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE014 - Aging and Stroke
Author: Jim Belson

This course reviews the relationship between aging and stroke. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey.  Learning objectives: 1. Explain the relationship between aging and stroke; 2. Describe what a stroke is and the types of stroke; 3. Recognize the signs and symptoms of stroke; 4. Cite the prevalence/incidence of stroke in various populations; 5. Identify the risk factors for stroke; 6. Describe how diagnoses are made, what treatments are available and the factors for maintaining life after stroke.  To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE015 - Aging and Perioperative Care
Author: Jim Belson

Unique challenges can arise when performing perioperative care for older surgical patients. This course reviews the challenges of performing such care that all members of a patient’s health care team should be aware. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the continuum of preoperative, surgery and postoperative surgery in the care of elderly patients; 2. Explain the importance of preoperative evaluation for the elderly, including informed consent, history and nutritional status, mental status, and physical exam; 3. Explain the risks of surgery for the elderly; 4. Identify the barriers to recovery after surgery for the elderly; 5. Explain the postoperative problems and predictors of those problems for the elderly; 6. Explain the importance of pain management, discharge planning and family conferences for the elderly following surgery. 

 
AGE016 - Aging and Immobility Dangers
Author: Jim Belson

Loss of muscle mass and strength is a normal part of the aging process. The resulting immobility of aging muscles can affect many areas of the body. This course provides an overview of how aging affects mobility, including risk factors, complications and dangers of immobility, and details how therapeutic activities can lessen mobility problems. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
AGE017 - Aging and Multiple Sclerosis
Author: Jim Belson

This course reviews the relationship between aging and multiple sclerosis. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the effects of aging on the four types of MS; 2. Describe the clinical characteristics of elderly patients with MS; 3. Explain the differences in physical, psychological, and cognitive functioning in elderly people with MS; 4. Describe the coping mechanisms for elderly people with MS; 5. Describe the available services for elderly people with MS.  To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
 

Behavioral Health

BEHV001 – Introduction to Behavioral Health
Author: Leanne Anthon, MSN, RN

Description

The purpose of this course is to provide education to home medical equipment (HME) employees who work with individuals with behavioral health disorders. Following this course, you will be able to identify the prevalence of mental health issues in the United States, define and possess knowledge of mental illness and substance-related and addictive disorders, and recognize various approaches to an individual’s care. This course will address the psychosocial needs of individuals with behavioral health issues and conclude which elements contribute to achieving the highest standard of care for such individuals.

Objectives

Upon completion, learners will be able to:

  1. Identify prevalence of mental illness in the United States and be able to state the most common forms.
  2. Define the term mental illness and various conditions considered in this category.
  3. Identify symptoms often present in substance-related and addictive disorders.
  4. Discuss ways to best work with individuals with behavioral health disorders.
  5. Recognize the biological, psychological, spiritual, and social/behavioral aspects of trauma.
 
BEHV002- Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Author: Deb Martin, RN, BSN, and Chelsie Luhring

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a dramatic life-altering condition that causes intense feelings of horror, fear, and hopelessness. The purpose of this course is to assist health care workers in identifying symptoms of PTSD and understanding its impact. Topics will also include treatment options as well as in-the-moment techniques to help patients cope with trauma or PTSD symptoms.

Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to:

  1. Define trauma.
  2. Identify symptoms of PTSD.
  3. Discuss the causes of PTSD.
  4. Recognize the treatment options for patients with PTSD
  5. Describe in-the-moment grounding techniques health care workers can utilize with patients with PTSD.
 
BEHV003 - Trauma and the Mental Health Effects of a Pandemic
Author: Chelsie Luhring

Spanish version: BEHV003S - El Trauma y los Efectos Mentales de una Pandemia

This course provides health care workers with an understanding of how the COVID-19 pandemic impacts mental health and tools for resourcing.

Objectives

Upon completion, learners will be able to:

  1. Define trauma.
  2. List examples of direct and indirect trauma due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  3. Describe vicarious trauma.
  4. Discuss the effects of trauma.
  5. Explain the symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder.
  6. Define burnout.
  7. Identify resources for mental health help.
 
 

Billing & Reimbursement

BILL100 - Introduction to CMS and Medicare
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

This course offers an introduction to the Medicare program and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Learning objectives: 1. Identify the role of CMS; 2. Identify the contractors that work with CMS and their roles; 3. List the four parts of Medicare; 4. Identify who qualifies for Medicare; 5. Identify what a DME MAC is; 6. Identify the six payment categories for DME. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL101 - The Intake Process Prior to Delivery
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

This course introduces the biller to the intake process. It offers suggestions to help make the process more efficient and effective to reduce delays and denials. Learning objectives: 1. Describe how to create a patient intake process that will assist in reducing your aging accounts receivable; 2. Describe how to obtain pertinent information on Medicare beneficiaries using the interactive voice response (IVR) system and online status inquiry; 3. Describe the order necessary to be on file prior to delivering equipment/supplies to Medicare beneficiaries; 4. Identify requirements for certain DMEPOS items; 5. Identify tools and resources available for obtaining accurate medical records. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL102 - Documentation Prior to Claim Submission
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

This course highlights Medicare documentation requirements prior to claims submission. It is important to understand which type of order is required prior to delivery: Preliminary/Dispensing Order (can be verbal or written) or Standard Written Order Prior to Delivery.

Learning objectives:

  1. Identify documentation required prior to claim submission;
  2. Identify the three proof of delivery methods recognized by Medicare;
  3. Identify supplier standards that must be addressed at the time of delivery and prior to claims submission;
  4. Identify signature requirements for medical review purposes.

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL103 - Orders, CMNs, and DIFs
Author: Tamra Maxfield, Ronda Buhrmester

This course introduces the various types of orders required by Medicare: Preliminary/Dispensing Order, Written Order Prior to Delivery (WOPD), Standard Written Order (SWO), Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN), and DME MAC Information Form (DIF). You will learn when to use which type of order, how to correctly complete orders, and who is authorized to order durable medical equipment.

Learning objectives:

  1. Identify the various types of orders required by Medicare.
  2. Describe how to correctly complete a CMN and DIF.
  3. Identify which practitioners are authorized to order DME.
  4. Identify when a new order is required.
  5. Identify the differences between a Dispensing Order, Written Order Prior to Delivery (WOPD), Standard Written Order (SWO), Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN) and DME MAC Information Form (DIF).

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL104 - Claims Filing and Processing Claims
Author: Tamra Maxfield

This course will guide you through the information required prior to submitting a claim and the correct ways to submit a claim. You will also learn the different types of claims. Learning objectives: 1. Identify required information prior to claim submission; 2. List the two different methods to send claims to insurance carriers; 3. Define timely filing and identify the importance of timely filing guidelines; 4. Identify the differences between participating and non-participating suppliers; 5. Identify the differences between assigned and non-assigned claims. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL105 - Frequently Ordered DME
Author: Tamra Maxfield

This course will address Medicare coverage for several frequently ordered durable medical equipment products. This course will also explain the process of billing Medicare for capped rental items and inexpensive and routinely purchased items. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the Medicare benefit categories: capped rental and inexpensive and routinely purchased; 2. Identify which HCPCS code modifiers are to be used for capped rental products; 3. Describe basic Medicare coverage criteria for canes, walkers, commodes, beds, seat lifts, and other standard home medical equipment; 4. Identify the type of order needed for the durable medical equipment (DME) covered in this course. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL106 - Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN)
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

This course explains the Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN), its purpose and how to use it appropriately.

Learning objectives

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

  1. Identify the Advance Beneficiary Notice form.
  2. Explain the purpose of the ABN.
  3. Explain what information should be included on an ABN.
  4. Explain when an ABN should be used.
  5. Explain the difference between assigned and non-assigned claims.
  6. Identify specific modifiers and when to use them.
  7. Define “upgrades.”

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL107 - Oxygen: Documentation and Billing
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

Oxygen reimbursement is one of the most complicated of all the Medicare policies. This course is designed to assist billers and patient service personnel in understanding Medicare oxygen reimbursement. You should complete the following VGMU courses before taking this course: BILL100 – Introduction to CMS and Medicare, BILL103 – Orders, CMNs and DIFs, and BILL106 - Advanced Beneficiary Notice (ABN). Learning objectives: 1. Explain the Medicare-required testing guidelines (testing modalities and screening results); 2. Identify the three types of oxygen Certificates of Medical Necessity (CMNs); 3. Identify the Medicare coverage groups for oxygen; 4. Identify oxygen products and accessories, and explain Medicare’s reimbursement policy of each; 5. Explain how to screen CMNs for completion and qualification; 6.Explain what documentation Medicare requires for new and existing oxygen patients. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 

 
BILL108 - PAP - Beneficiaries with OSA: Documentation and Billing
Author: Ronda Buhrmester & Tamra Maxfield

This course introduces positive airway pressure (PAP) devices, and discusses proper billing procedures for reimbursement from Medicare and other third party payors who follow the same criteria. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the changes in Medicare reimbursement rules that have occurred to the local coverage determination (LCD) CPAP policy (now called “PAP” policy); 2. Explain the current reimbursement coverage requirements including the required face-to-face evaluation the patient must have with the treating physician; 3. Explain when an Advanced Beneficiary Notice (ABN) must be used when providing a CPAP device to a Medicare beneficiary; 4. Identify the criteria by which a CPAP is covered by Medicare. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL109 - Manual Wheelchairs: Documentation and Billing
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

This course explains how to bill Medicare for manual wheelchairs and what documentation is required. You should complete the VGMU courses BILL100 - Introduction to CMS and Medicare and BILL106 - Advanced Beneficiary Notice (ABN) before completing this course. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the documentation that a post-pay auditor would expect to find among the records of a beneficiary who received a manual wheelchair; 2. Explain why an environmental assessment must be conducted about the home of a beneficiary who receives a manual wheelchair; 3. Explain the different types of manual wheelchair bases and the specific documentation required for each. To successfully complete this course, you are required to visit each page and score 80 percent or better on the final test. 

 
BILL110 - Power Mobility Devices: Understanding the Process
Author: Dan Fedor

This course explains how to bill Medicare for power wheelchairs and scooters (POVs), collectively referred to as power mobility devices (PMDs), and what documentation is required. You should complete the VGMU courses BILL100 - Introduction to CMS and Medicare and BILL106 - Advanced Beneficiary Notice (ABN) before completing this course. Learning objectives: 1. Define mobility-related activities of daily living (MRADLs) and explain their importance in Medicare’s coverage criteria; 2. Identify the five groups to which power mobility devices have been assigned and the criteria that must be met in order for a beneficiary to receive a device from each group; 3. Identify the documentation that a supplier must receive from a beneficiary’s treating practitioner prior to dispensing a PMD; 4. Explain why an environmental assessment must be conducted at the home of a beneficiary who receives a PMD. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL111 - Billing for Repairs/Replacements
Author: Dan Fedor

This course will help you become familiar with the process of billing for repairs to home medical equipment (HME). You should complete the VGMU course BILL100 – Introduction to CMS and Medicare before completing this course. Learning objectives: 1. Demonstrate how to bill for repairs and get paid for them in a timely manner with a reasonable allowable; 2. Explain which modifiers should be included on DME repair claims; 3. Explain what is needed up front to get paid with the first submission.; 4. Understand when Medicare will cover replacement equipment for Medicare beneficiaries. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
BILL112 - Advance Determination of Medicare Coverage (ADMC)
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

The Advance Determination of Medicare Coverage (ADMC) is a process by which your local Medicare carrier will provide you and the beneficiary with a coverage decision prior to delivery of an item. This course describes the ADMC process. You should complete the following courses before taking this course: BILL100 - Introduction to CMS and Medicare and BILL103 - Orders, CMNs and DIFs. Learning objectives: 1. Define ADMC; 2. Identify your jurisdiction’s ADMC processor; 3. List the durable medical equipment for which ADMCs may be requested; 4. Demonstrate how to complete an ADMC cover letter; 5. Identify the specific information that is required to be submitted with an ADMC request; 6. Explain the ADMC process. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL113a - Hospital Beds: Documentation and BIlling
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

This course explains how to bill Medicare for all types of hospital beds and accessories and what documentation is required. You should complete the courses BILL100 – Introduction to CMS and Medicare,   BILL105 – Frequently Ordered DME, and BILL106 - Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN) before taking this course.

Learning objectives:

  1. Define the differences in hospital bed types;
  2. Identify basic billing documentation required for each level of hospital beds;
  3. Explain which HCPCS code modifiers are required for billing.

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL113b - Specialty Mattresses and Support Surfaces
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

This course explains how to bill Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) for all types of pressure-reducing support surfaces and provide the documentation necessary to submit a clean claim. Before taking this course, you should complete the courses: BILL100 – Introduction to CMS and Medicare, BILL105 – Frequently Ordered DME, and BILL106 – Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN).

 

Objectives

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

  1. Define the differences in the three different types of pressure-reducing support surfaces: Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3.
  2. Identify basic billing documentation required for each level of pressure-reducing group support surfaces.
  3. Explain which Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) codes and modifiers are required for billing.
 
BILL114 - Glucose Monitors and Supplies: Documentation and Billing
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

This course will help you become familiar with the documentation required to bill Medicare for blood glucose monitors and testing supplies. You should complete the following courses before taking this course: BILL100 - Introduction to CMS and Medicare and BILL106 - Advanced Beneficiary Notice (ABN). Learning objectives: 1. Explain the basic coverage criteria for glucose monitors and supplies; 2. Identify the basic documentation that is required to be in the beneficiary’s file prior to submitting a claim for glucose monitors or supplies to Medicare; 3. Reduce CERT (Comprehensive Error Rate Testing) errors for testing supplies; 4. Produce basic claim submission (coding, modifiers, spanned dates) for monitors and testing supplies. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL115 - Urological Supplies: Documentation and Billing
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

This course will help you become familiar with the process of billing Medicare for all types of urological supplies. You should complete the following courses before taking this course: BILL100 - Introduction to CMS and Medicare and BILL106 -Advanced Beneficiary Notice (ABN). Learning objectives: 1. Identify the basic coverage criteria for urological supplies; 2. Identify the basic documentation that is required to be in the beneficiary’s file prior to submitting a claim for urological supplies to Medicare; 3. Reduce CERT (Comprehensive Error Rate Testing) errors for urological supplies; 4. Demonstrate basic claim submission for urological supplies. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL116 - Ostomy Supplies: Documentation and Billing
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

This course will help you become familiar with the documentation, coding, modifiers and billing requirements in order to bill Medicare for ostomy supplies. You should complete the following courses before taking this course: BILL100 - Introduction to CMS and Medicare and BILL106 - Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN). Learning objectives: 1. Explain the basic coverage criteria for ostomy supplies; 2. Identify the basic documentation that is required to be in the beneficiary’s file prior to submitting a claim for ostomy supplies to Medicare; 3. Reduce CERT (Comprehensive Error Rate Testing) errors for ostomy supplies; 4. Explain basic claim submission requirements for ostomy supplies. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL117 - External Breast Prosthesis: Documentation and Billing
Author: Ronda Buhrmester

This course addresses the billing and coverage of external breast prosthesis for individuals who have had a mastectomy. Objectives: Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. List the benefit category for breast prostheses.
  2. Identify the useful lifetime expectancy for different types of breast prostheses.
  3. Identify the appropriate billing modifiers.
  4. Discuss Medicare billing for breast prosthesis items.
  5. Explain the physician’s involvement in the dispensing process.
  6. Describe documentation requirements for submitting a clean claim.

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL118 - Understanding the Medicare Supplier Standards
Author: Mark Higley and Alan Morris

This course provides explanation of the current standards that a durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics and supplies (DMEPOS) supplier must meet to receive and maintain a Medicare Supplier Number and to submit claims to and receive payment from Medicare. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the DMEPOS supplier standards and conditions in order to be eligible to receive payment for a Medicare-covered item; 2. Identify the particular standards that require your business to maintain documentation of compliance; 3. Identify sample documents and complete procedures that may facilitate an on-site NSC inspection, should one occur.To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL120 - Introduction to Patient Receivable Management
Author: Lisa Bargmann and Lisa Cuisick

This course provides an overview of patient billing and collection. The course is written for billing managers and customer service/intake employees. Learning objectives: 1. Define “network;” 2. Explain the difference between an “in-network” provider and an “out-of-network” provider; 3. Explain how high deductible health plans (HDHP) and health savings accounts (HSA) have influenced the health care insurance industry; 4. Explain the steps you should take to accurately verify a patient’s insurance coverage; 5. Explain the steps you should take to effectively bill and collect the amount owed by patients for your services. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BILL121 - Medicare Appeals Process
Author: Wayne van Halem

This course explains the structural and procedural changes that have been made to the process that Medicare beneficiaries can use to appeal claim denial and the steps that need to be followed in the appeals process. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the differences between the old and the new appeals process; 2. Define the five levels of the appeals process; 3. List numerous tips to successfully guide you through the appeals process; 4. Explain the BIPA and MMA changes that have taken place. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

                                     

 
BILL131 - Introduction to ICD-10
Author: Lisa Eick, RN

This course provides an overview of ICD-10-CM coding by focusing on the classification structures and the rationale behind the ICD-10 code system. Throughout this course, ICD-10-CM is shortened to ICD-10. You may find the long and short versions of the coding system used interchangeably; both terms are referring to the same coding system. This course is not intended to replace the need for in-depth training based on job functions and the knowledge of ICD-10 coding that is required to meet job requirements. This course is not intended to be a training curriculum for the purposes of becoming an ICD-10 coder. Learning objectives:  1. Discuss the implications for health care with improved specificity in ICD-10-CM codes.  2. Describe the structure of ICD-10-CM codes.  3. Describe the differences between the Tabular List and Alphabetical Index when coding for ICD 10-CM.  4. Explain the significance of the seventh character in the ICD 10-CM.  To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
 

Business Management

BUS003 - Employment Law
Author: Ann Clark

This course will provide an overview of federal employment law and the principles on which it is based. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the three key principles by which employment law is driven; 2. Identify the more significant laws that apply to your company, depending on its size; 3. Explain the regulation behind the posting of notices, including the Consolidated EEO Poster; 4. Explain how to contact the federal agencies that deal with small businesses. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BUS005a - Identity Theft - Part 1
Author: Lindsey Smedley and the FTC

This is the first of a 2-part series of courses about identify theft.  This course defines identity theft and what you can do to minimize your risk of becoming a victim of the crime. Learning objectives: 1. Describe how prevalent identify theft is in the U.S.; 2. Explain how identity theft occurs; 3. Explain how you can minimize the risk of identity theft happening to you. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BUS005b - Identity Theft - Part 2
Author: Lindsey Smedley and the FTC

This is the second of a 2-part series of courses about identify theft. This course discusses what you can do if you become a victim of identity theft. Learning objectives: 1. Explain what to do if you become a victim of identity theft; 2. Explain steps to take to resolve credit problems that result from identity theft; 3. Explain how the Identity Theft and Assumption Deterrence Act of 1998 is designed to deter identity theft. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. You should complete Identity Theft – Part 1 before beginning this course. 

 
BUS010 - Financial Management Basics for the HME Provider
Author: Mike Mallaro

Understanding basic accounting and finance principles is critical to your success as a business owner or manager. This course will provide an introduction to many financial concepts that will assist you in operating your business. Learning objectives: 1. State three ways to increase profits in your HME business; 2. Describe how a budget will help you achieve your goals in regard to profit; 3. Define assets and liabilities. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BUS011 - Business Planning - A Financial View
Author: Mike Mallaro

Planning your business is central to its success over the long term. This course discusses the three steps common to any business planning process. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the three steps that are crucial to the business planning process; 2. Explain the specific areas of your business that should be considered when setting your goals; 3. Explain how you should develop a catalog of action steps to accomplish your goals; 4. Develop pro-forma financial statements based upon your goals and action steps. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BUS012 - Management and Leadership Techniques
Author: Louis Feuer

Everyone approaches the management task in a different way, and each manager may use a combination of management styles. This course will help you more effectively manage your business and understand the various management styles. Learning objectives: 1. escribe the role of management within an organization; 2. Identify five styles of management; 3. Explain how a manager can keep the lines of communication open; 4. Establish team and individual goals; 5. Effectively delegate work to team members; 6. Use established goals to monitor team performance and appraisal individual employee performance; 7. Explain how to reduce or eliminate resistance to change; 8. Identify and overcome common management mistakes and unacceptable business behavior. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BUS014 - Credit Card Processing 101
Author: Various Sources

This course provides you with important information about how the credit card system works, some things to watch out for, and your responsibilities as a merchant. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the major players in the credit card system and the role each plays; 2. Explain the reasons why people use credit cards; 3. Explain how the credit card process works; 4. Describe how the credit card system protects you, the merchant; 5. Explain the chargeback process, and identify five ways to avoid chargebacks; 6. Describe at least four features that an e-commerce Web host should be able to provide you in order to accept credit card payment over the Internet. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BUS015a - Avoiding Fraud and Forgery - Part 1
Author: Various Sources

Small businesses nationwide, are increasingly falling victim to fraud and forgery from outside as well as inside the business. This is the first of a 3-part series of courses that provides information about how small businesses can fight back against fraud and forgery. This course focuses on negotiable instruments. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the security and design features incorporated into the recent series of U.S. paper currency; 2. Explain steps you should take if you receive a counterfeit note; 3. Explain how to authenticate a cashier's check; 4. Describe the security features incorporated into United States postal money orders; 5. Explain steps you should take to avoid falling victim to a counterfeit money order. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BUS015b - Avoiding Fraud and Forgery - Part 2
Author: Various Sources

Small businesses nationwide, are increasingly falling victim to fraud and forgery from outside as well as inside the business. This is the second of a 3-part series of courses that provides information about how small businesses can fight back against fraud and forgery. This course focuses on check forgery and credit card fraud. Learning objectives: 1. Describe at least two major check forgery schemes, and the steps you should take to avoid becoming a victim of check forgery; 2. Describe two common forms of credit card fraud, and the steps you can take to avoid credit card fraud. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BUS015c - Avoiding Fraud and Forgery - Part 3
Author: Various Sources

Small businesses nationwide, are increasingly falling victim to fraud and forgery from outside as well as inside the business. This is the third of a 3-part series of courses that provides information about how small businesses can fight back against fraud and forgery. This course focuses on embezzlement. Learning objective: You will be able to explain four common embezzlement schemes, and how you can prevent them. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
BUS017 - MLN Training: Combating Medicare Parts C and D Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Web-Based Training
Author: CMS - MLN Training

The Combating Medicare Parts C and D Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Web-Based Training course is brought to you by the Medicare Learning Network®, a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). This course contains all 2018 updates and revisions.
This course content is not property of VGM Education and does not offer any continuing education credits.

 
BUS018 - Business Ethics
Author: Rick Hibben and Jill Blaser

Spanish version: BUS018S - Ética Empresarial

This course covers the topic of business ethics. Ethics is a challenging topic in the workplace because not every problem has a single correct solution. This course is intended to give you guidelines and get you thinking about ethical decisions in business.

Learning objectives: 1. Define business ethics; 2. List some characteristics of an ethical person; 3. Explain ways that ethics affect work relationships; 4. Define business abuse and how it impacts an organization; 5. Describe ways an employer can respond to business abuse; 6. List some available options when faced with ethical decisions.

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
 

Clinical - Rehab

REHB003a - Seating & Mobility: Evaluation
Author: Kyle Walker, MHA, ATP

This is the first of a series of three courses designed to provide an overview to the home medical equipment provider about the seating and mobility provision process: evaluation of the client, equipment simulation, funding requirements, and considerations in selection of the proper seating equipment for a particular client.

This course contains content specific to pediatrics where appropriate.

You should complete this course before completing parts 2 and 3: REHB003b - Seating & Mobility: Recommendation and Funding and REHB003c - Seating & Mobility: Choosing a Seat Cushion and Back Support.

Learning objectives:

  1. Explain the supplier's role in the seating evaluation team;
  2. Describe the steps in the evaluation process;
  3. Explain the purposes of the information collected.

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB003b - Seating & Mobility: Recommendation and Funding
Author: Kyle Walker, MHA, ATP

This is the second of a three-part series of courses designed to provide an overview to the home medical equipment provider about the seating and mobility provision process: evaluation of the client, equipment simulation, funding requirements, and selecting the proper seating equipment for a particular client. This second part of the series focuses on the simulation and funding processes.

This course contains content specific to pediatrics where appropriate.

You should complete Part 1 of this series (REHB003a - Seating & Mobility: Evaluation) prior to taking this course, and you should complete this course before completing Part 3 (REHB003c - Seating & Mobility: Choosing a Seat Cushion and Back Support).

Learning objectives:

  1. Describe how the therapist arrives at initial goals for equipment suggestions;
  2. Explain the benefits of equipment simulation;
  3. Explain how both anatomic measurements of the client and equipment measurements are taken;
  4. Explain the basis of approval for the seating and mobility funding process.

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB003c - Seating & Mobility: Choosing a Seat Cushion and Back Support
Author: Kyle Walker, MHA, ATP

This is the third of a three-part series of courses designed to provide an overview to the home medical equipment provider about the seating and mobility provision process: evaluation of the client, equipment simulation, funding requirements, and considerations in selecting the proper seating equipment for a particular client. This course focuses on the considerations in choosing a seat cushion and back support.

This course contains content specific to pediatrics where appropriate.

You should complete parts 1 and 2 of this series (REHB003a - Seating & Mobility: Evaluation and REHB003b - Seating & Mobility: Recommendation and Funding) prior to taking this course.

Learning objectives:

  1. Describe how seating components support a client's physical form;
  2. Explain how to decipher which seating/positioning products will provide necessary support and accommodate each client's needs;
  3. Describe the purpose of each of the different types of secondary supports for the seat cushion and back support.

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB006 - Overview of Batteries in Power Mobility Equipment
Author: Dennis Sharpe

This course covers topics related to components of power mobility equipment (power wheelchairs and scooters) that most people don't give much thought to until something goes wrong: batteries. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the importance of batteries in power mobility equipment; 2. Explain why batteries can be both hazardous and dangerous; 3. Explain the differences between GEL, AGM and wet batteries; 4. Identify the steps needed to ensure proper battery application and use; 5. Determine the appropriate batteries for each customer. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB008 - Rehab Medical Terminology
Author: Kyle Walker

This course presents rehab medical terminology used most commonly in relation to subjects that involve the prescribing or selection of wheelchairs and other patient aid equipment. Learning objective: Define the medical terminology used by your team of rehab professionals. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB009 - Challenges for the Bariatric Resident
Author: Patrick Meeker

This course examines the epidemic of obesity in the United States and the challenges that face the bariatric client. Before completing this course, you should complete the course "DMGT004 - Understanding Obesity." Learning objectives: 1. Define bariatrics; 2. Explain the difference between "overweight" and "obesity;" 3. Explain the prevalence of obesity in the U.S. and its direct cost to the U.S. healthcare system; 4. Identify the major challenges that face the bariatric client; 5. Explain the importance of addressing skin and wound care issues for the bariatric client; 6. Explain why a global assessment approach can work best at addressing a bariatric client's needs. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB011 - A Practical Approach to Electrical Nerve Stimulation
Author: Rehabilicare

This is the first of a 3-part series of modules designed to assist you in developing a practical approach to using electrical nerve stimulation (ENS) as an important tool in patient care. This series of modules is provided by Rehabilicare. Learning objectives: 1. Discuss the principles of the effect of electrical stimulation waveforms on nerves; 2. Describe the association between waveforms and the different types of electrical stimulation equipment; 3. Select electrical stimulation systems based on waveform requirements; 4. Define device parameters; 5. Select electrodes for a specific application. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB012 - A Practical Approach to Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
Author: Rehabilicare

This is the second of a 3-part series of modules designed to assist you in developing a practical approach to using electrotherapy as an important tool in patient care. This second module addresses transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). This series of modules is provided by Rehabilicare. Learning objectives: 1. Relate physiological, neurophysiological and electrophysiological changes specific to muscles and nerves that are achieved with modalities; 2. Use the appropriate devices and settings to clinically minimize pain; 3. Select problem solving parameters when using TENS; 4. Use modalities as adjunctive tools to help patients achieve improved function in a shorter period of time. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
REHB013 - A Practical Approach to Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)
Author: Rehabilicare

This is the third of a 3-part series of modules designed to assist you in developing a practical approach to using electrotherapy as an important tool in patient care. This third module addresses neuromuscular electrical nerve stimulation (NMES). This series of modules is provided by Rehabilicare. Learning objectives: 1. Relate physiological, neurophysiological and electrophysiological changes specific to muscles and nerves that are achieved with modalities; 2. Demonstrate clinical decision-making for strengthening, managing lack of mobility, normalizing tone and orthotic substitution; 3. Demonstrate problem-solving parameter selections for NMES through extensive "hands on" experience; 4. Scrutinize NMES research data; 5. Use modalities as adjunctive tools to help patients achieve improved function in shorter time periods; 6. Implement an NMES strategy for your current practice. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB015 - Continuous Cold Therapy for Postoperative Pain
Author: Patrick Cawley

This course addresses the use of continuous cold therapy (CCT) to manage post-operative pain. Learning objectives: 1. Explain how cold therapy (or cryotherapy) is used as an adjunct for the management of pain following surgery; 2. Explain how CCT can be used to affect the temperature of joints and tissue; 3. Explain the effects of cold on nerve function and muscles; 4. Identify the parameters of inflammation that can be affected by CCT; 5. Explain the importance of identifying pain as a “qualitative” experience rather than a “quantitative” experience; 6. Explain how medication intake and days of hospital stay can influence the evaluation of pain intensity and quality of patient life; 7. Identify the major pain-reducing benefits of CCT. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 

 
REHB016 - Implications of Immobility
Author: Kyle Walker

This course reviews the effects of immobility on the human body. We will discuss benefits, contraindications, and costs of Continuous Lateral Rotational Therapy (CLRT) as well as an overview of research related to CLRT. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the harmful effects of immobility on all body systems; 2. Describe the benefits of Continuous Lateral Rotational Therapy (CLRT) across the care continuum; 3. Discuss clinical research on the effects of CLRT in the treatment of pulmonary disease; 4. Identify indicators for discontinuation of CLRT; 5. Discuss case management and nursing considerations across the care continuum for patients on CLRT; 6. Discuss cost benefit ratio of CLRT in certain disease states. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB017 - Functional Knee Bracing
Author: Patrick Cawley

This course provides information that physical rehabilitation clinicians can use when deciding whether or not to use functional knee bracing during the treatment of significant knee joint injuries. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the “roots” of functional knee bracing; 2. Describe recent research into the affects of functional knee bracing; 3. Describe the benefits of functional knee bracing; 4. Identify the mechanical and material factors affecting knee brace function; 5. Identify the factors to be considered when selecting a particular knee brace. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB019 - Spinal Cord Injury
Author: Kyle Walker

This course provides information about spinal cord injuries (SCI) and the role a case manager plays in the acute and rehabilitation of persons with SCI. Learning objectives: 1. Define spinal cord injury; 2. Explain how diagnosis translates to long-term acute care, rehab planning and cost efficiency; 3. Describe medical, psychological and environmental issues important to the SCI patient; 4. Describe the case manager’s role in identification and facilitation of prescription options; 5. Explain the case manager’s role in assessment, prescription and on-going rehab/care needs. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
REHB020 - Traumatic Brain Injury
Author: Kyle Walker

This course discusses issues, interventions and information pertinent to case managers who work with patients who have sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Learning objectives: 1. Define TBI; 2. Describe the case manager's role in TBI assessment, care and treatment; 3. Identify the variations of TBI, including Anoxia/Hypoxia Brain Injury (ABI), and how the variations affect rehabilitation and outcomes; 4. Describe some of the tools a case manager can use in assessment, treatment and planning for a TBI patient and family. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB024 - Seating: The Forgotten (Pressure Ulcer) Risk Factor
Author: Tricia Henley and W. Darren Hammond

This course reviews the impact of seating and positioning on pressure ulcer risk, and examines relevant interventions for prevention. You should complete the 3-course series called "Overview of Pressure Ulcer Etiology" (OWC006a, b and c) before starting this course. Learning objectives: 1. Identify client populations who are most at risk for skin breakdown; 2. Explain how the seated posture contributes to risk for skin breakdown; 3. Describe appropriate clinical interventions; 4. Identify and implement appropriate equipment parameters to minimize risk for skin breakdown.To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB027 - Overview of Joint Replacement
Author: Jim Belson

Damaged hip joints and knee joints are by far the most common joints that are replaced by surgery, although shoulder, finger, ankle and elbow joints can also be replaced. This course provides an overview of hip and knee replacement including the risks and complications of such surgery. Learning objectives: 1. Discuss the causes of joint damage; 2. Identify which joints are commonly replaced and why; 3. Explain the basics of hip and knee replacement surgery; 4. Describe the risks and potential complications of and alternatives to joint replacement surgery. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB028 - Overview of Foot and Ankle Injuries
Author: Jim Belson

This course provides an overview of the types of injuries that can occur to a person’s feet and ankles. Describe the basic structure of the bones, tendons and ligaments of the feet and ankles. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the types of common foot and ankle injuries; Recognize when a foot or ankle injury can be treated at home; 3. Explain the available home treatment options for common foot and ankle injuries; 4. Recognize when an injury requires a visit to the doctor for evaluation and possible treatment. 5. Explain the steps to take to help prevent foot and ankle injuries. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB029 - Overview of the RESNA Wheelchair Transit Standards
Author: Pete Cionitti and Chris Reidmiller

For users of wheeled mobility, transportation can present unique and often difficult challenges. This course provides an overview of the sections of the ANSI/RESNA Wheelchair Standards that pertain to the safety of wheelchair-seated passengers in motor vehicles. This course specifically addresses existing sections 18 and 19 and the pending section 20 (commonly called WC18, WC19 and WC20, respectively). Learning objectives: 1. Identify the relevant standards and how products that meet those standards can be combined and used; 2. Explain the importance of the WC18, WC19 and WC20 standards; 3. Describe the requirements of the WC20 standard; 4. Identify and implement a WC20 solution for wheeled mobility transit; 5. Disseminate accurate transit information. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB030a - Selecting the Proper Wheelchair Cushion Features
Author: Elizabeth Cole, MSPT, ATP

This is the first of a two-course series that presents information you need to select the proper cushion to meet a wheelchair client’s needs. This first course examines the basic goals of the seat cushion and how we can achieve these goals through various features and options. You should complete this course before beginning the course “REHB030b – Selecting the Proper Wheelchair Cushion Materials.” Learning objectives: 1. Identify the top five goals for a wheelchair seat cushion; 2. Identify the pertinent cushion features that can help meet these goals when selecting the best product for each individual; 3. Describe the key to identifying an individual’s specific seating needs; 4. Describe the best way to reduce the risk of skin breakdown; 5. Identify the clues that an individual is at increased risk for skin breakdown; 6. Describe the best way to address a fixed deformity. NOTE: This two-course series replaces the VGMU courses “REHB004 – Foam 101” and “REHB022 – Selecting the Proper Cushion.” To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
REHB030b - Selecting the Proper Wheelchair Cushion Materials
Author: Elizabeth Cole, MSPT, ATP

This is the second of a two-course series that presents information you need to select the proper cushion to meet a wheelchair client’s needs. This course will delve specifically into the features and benefits of different cushion materials (foams, polymer gels, thermoplastic elastomers, viscous fluids and air) and how they address our cushion goals. You should complete the first part of this series – “REHB030a – Selecting the Proper Wheelchair Cushion Features” – before beginning this course. Learning objectives: 1. List the major types of solids and fluids used in wheelchair cushions, and describe their main features; 2. Explain the difference between “density” and “IFD” and between “open-cell” and “closed-cell” foams used in wheelchair cushions; 3. Describe how the different solid materials address skin protection, stability and posture; 4. Describe how the different fluid materials address skin protection, stability and posture. NOTE: This two-course series replaces the VGMU courses “REHB004 – Foam 101” and “REHB022 – Selecting the Proper Cushion.” To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
 

Clinical - Respiratory

RESP001a - OSA Diagnosis and Treatment - Part 1
Author: Vince Jenness, Dorothy de Souza Guedes

This is the first in a two-part series of modules which make up a course on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a serious breathing disorder characterized by periodic cessation or markedly diminished breathing during sleep. Part 1 explains how OSA is identified and diagnosed. Part 2 will discuss treatment options, comorbid conditions, and consequences if OSA is untreated. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP001b - OSA Diagnosis and Treatment - Part 2
Author: Vince Jenness, Dorothy de Souza Guedes

This is the second in a two-part series of modules which make up a course on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a serious breathing disorder characterized by periodic cessation or markedly diminished breathing during sleep. Part 1 explained how OSA is identified and diagnosed. Part 2 will discuss treatment options, comorbid conditions, and consequences if OSA is untreated. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP003 - Aerosol Therapy
Author: Linda Torr

This course provides information regarding the purpose, indications, contradictions and modalities of aerosol therapy. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the two primary applications of aerosol therapy; 2. Explain the purpose and indications of bland aerosol therapy; 3. Identify the indications of aerosol therapy to deliver respiratory medications; 4. Explain the different modalities to deliver aerosol therapy; 5. Explain the principle of operation of an aerosol-generating device; 6. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP004 - Mask Fitting 101
Author: Ron Hosp, MS, RRT

This course on mask fitting will help you find the best fit for your customers and achieve optimal comfort as they wear the mask over the duration of their therapy. Finding the best fit and comfort will help improve therapy compliance on the part of the patient.

Objectives

Upon completing this course, you will be able to do:

  1. Describe proper fitting principals and techniques.
  2. Identify the importance and benefits of mask features.
  3. Discuss fitting tips for optimal comfort and provide proper techniques for cleaning and caring for the mask.
  4. Explain aspects of the full face mask.
  5. Identify common therapy issues and suggested resolutions.
  6. Explain how magnetic clips can be used for masks and for which patients.
  7. List the three facial landmarks considered for sizing nasal masks.
 
RESP005 - Are You Getting Enough Sleep (Business)?
Author: Harold Davis

This course is the first part of a 2-course series designed to assist the home medical equipment provider in evaluating the sleep-related segment of an HME business. This course serves as an introduction to sleep-related disorders, focusing on Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). You should complete this course before completing the second part of this series, "RESP006 - Mastering and Expanding Your CPAP Market." Learning objectives: 1. Define apnea and the three types of apnea; 2. Define Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA); 3. Explain the effects of untreated OSA; 4. Explain the method of diagnosing OSA in both a lab setting and in a home sleep study; 5. Identify therapies available today for the treatment of OSA; 6. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP008 - Home Oxygen Therapy
Author: Vince Jenness

This course explains what home oxygen therapy is, the types of home oxygen therapy available, and how the therapy can benefit the patient. 

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Define home oxygen therapy.
  2. Explain the indications for home oxygen therapy.
  3. Explain how the need for home oxygen therapy is determined.
  4. List the benefits of home oxygen therapy.
  5. Describe which tests are used to determine a patient’s oxygen level.
  6. Discuss what information is needed from a physician ordering home oxygen therapy.
  7. Explain why a patient may require an oxygen concentrator.
  8. Discuss liquid oxygen as a gas and in relation to home oxygen therapy.
  9. Explain what a ratio of savings is when it comes to oxygen conserving devices.
     

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP009 - Asthma Management: Interventions and Strategies
Author: Dave Henry and Mindy Owen

This course will review the elements of asthma and the aspects of properly managing patients with the disease. Learning objectives: 1. Define asthma and articulate its long-term affects; 2. Identify and explain the methods used to diagnose asthma; 3. Identify and explain the methods used to treat asthma; 4. Describe the key components to include in the asthmatic's plan of care; 5. Explain the factors that may inhibit an effective plan of care; 6. Explain the economics of asthma care and treatment. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP010 - Intervention and Strategies for the COPD Population
Author: Dave Henry and Mindy Owen

This course will define chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) both as a primary disease state and as a co-morbid condition. Learning objectives: 1. Define COPD and describe the "picture" of the patient with this chronic condition; 2. Explain the necessity and variances in the short- and long-term interventions for this population; 3. Describe the clinical and financial benefits of consistent long-term therapy interventions. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP011 - Long-Term Management of Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Author: Dave Henry and Mindy Owen

This course will define sleep-disordered breathing and aspects of long-term management of the patient with this illness. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the primary disease states that may result in sleep disorders; 2. Explain the key components to effective care planning for patients with sleep disorders; 3. Describe the sleep apnea cycle and its affects on the body. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP012 - MDI: Aerosol Delivery
Author: Dr. Richard Dalby, Dr. Joseph L. Rau, Thomas J. Kallstrom

This course contains three separate presentations on inhalation aerosol therapy given at the 1998 AARC International Respiratory Congress Symposium. The course is provided courtesy of Philips Respironics' Asthma & Allergy Division. Learning objectives: 1. List at least two reasons a patient should use a metered dose inhaler (MDI) with a spacer; 2. Explain for which three diseases that bronchodilators are useful; 3. Define asthma and the prevalence of the disease throughout the United States; 4. Identify the three requirements for inhalation aerosol therapy to be effective; 5. Define impaction and diffusion; 6. Identify the factors that are critical to the success of inhalation aerosol therapy; 7. List the critical design features of spacers; 8. Explain the importance of flow rate through a spacer; 9. Identify the responsibilities of the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP); 10. Identify the steps that asthma patients can take to self-manage their disease. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP013 - CPAP Humidification
Author: Roberty McCoy and Robert Virag

This course identifies the benefits and limitations of CPAP humidification to help patients and to build trust with referral sources. This course was developed from an article titled "Dew Diligence is Recommended," which appeared in the February 2006 issue of DealerProvider magazine. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the two most important issues that should be addressed to maximize CPAP compliance; 2. Explain how a CPAP works; 3. Explain why CPAP systems are designed to continuously leak air; 4. Describe the effect of humidity when used with CPAP; 5. Explain how a humidifier works with a CPAP; 6. Define the term "rainout" and explain how it can be avoided. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP015a - Airborne Allergens - Part 1
Author: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

This course is the first of a two-part series about airborne allergens. This first part summarizes what health experts know about the causes and symptoms of allergic reactions to airborne allergens, and how health care providers diagnose these reactions. You should complete this course before taking "RESP015b - Airborne Allergens - Part 2." Learning objectives: 1. Explain what an allergy is, and why some people are allergic; 2. List the signs and symptoms of airborne allergies; 3. Identify at least four of the most common types of airborne allergens. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP015b - Airborne Allergens - Part 2
Author: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

This course is the second of a two-part series about airborne allergens. This second part summarizes what health experts know about how people can prevent or reduce allergic reactions, how to treat these reactions, and what medical researchers are doing to help people who suffer from these allergies. You should complete "RESP015a - Airborne Allergens - Part 1" before taking this course. Learning objectives: 1. Explain steps that a person with allergies can take to gain relief from allergy symptoms; 2. Describe two methods by which allergies are diagnosed; 3. Explain five methods that can be used to treat allergy symptoms; 4. Explain what type of research is taking place to understand what happens to the human body during the allergic process. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP019 - Improving Patient PAP Compliance
Author: Cheryl Needham

This course explains how motivational enhancement therapy (MET) improves compliance to positive airway pressure (PAP) treatment in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) using specific behavioral interventions and theories about behavior change. Learning objectives: 1. Explain how you can employ the motivational enhancement therapy (MET) to help improve a patient’s adherence to positive airflow pressure (PAP) treatment; 2. Identify the predictors to PAP therapy adherence; 3. List the three specific constructs needed to make a change in behavior; 4. List the four key concepts of MET; 5. Identify the six guiding principles of MET, and explain their application to OSA patients; 6. Identify the specific MET questions and discussion points to use when an OSA patient is going home with his PAP device, and at follow-up within the first week to first month of use. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP021 - Improving Sleep Patient Comfort and Compliance
Author: Cheryl Needham

This course provides a program that is intended to show how a bi-level management program can help patients continue their positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy when they are not able to tolerate or do not perceive a response to standard CPAP treatment. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the difference between CPAP and bi-level therapies; 2. Explain the benefit of bi-level therapy; 3. Identify the two types of bi-level therapies; 4. Explain the reasons to transition a patient from CPAP to bi-level therapy in both a home and lab setting; 5. Describe the tools used to monitor patient PAP compliance; 6. Explain the four ways to establish a bi-level prescription. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP022a - OSA Links to CVD and Diabetes - Part 1
Author: Cheryl Needham

This is the first of a two-part series of courses about the relationship between Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and both cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes. This first part provides an overview of OSA, and reviews results of studies linking OSA to heart disease and diabetes. Learning objectives: 1. Define the most common form of sleep disordered breathing: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA); 2. Review current trends in co-morbid conditions: cardiovascular disease (CVD), including hypertension, arrhythmias and heart failure; and type 2 diabetes; 3. Explain the physiologic association between OSA and CVD, and OSA and type 2 diabetes; 4. Describe the benefits of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy in treating OSA; 5. Educate and help develop strategies to improve medical management of patients with co-morbid conditions who also suffer from OSA. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP022b - OSA Links to CVD and Diabetes - Part 2
Author: Cheryl Needham

This is the second of a two-part series of courses about the relationship between Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and both cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes. This second part focuses on the treatment of sleep disordered breathing, and explains how care professionals can improve OSA screening and therapy in their practice. Learning objectives: 1. Define the most common form of sleep disordered breathing: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA); 2. Review current trends in co-morbid conditions: cardiovascular disease (CVD), including hypertension, arrhythmias and heart failure; and type 2 diabetes; 3. Explain the physiologic association between OSA and CVD, and OSA and type 2 diabetes; 4. Describe the benefits of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy in treating OSA; 5. Educate and help develop strategies to improve medical management of patients with co-morbid conditions who also suffer from OSA. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP023 - Overview of Bronchitis
Author: Jim Belson

Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to the lungs. This course provides an overview of bronchitis including an explanation of the differences between the two types of bronchitis: acute and chronic. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the two main types of bronchitis; 2. Explain the causes and risk factors of bronchitis; 3.Describe the various treatments for bronchitis and lifestyle changes that can help a patient with bronchitis. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
RESP026 – Pediatric Mask Fitting
Author: Kathleen M. Groll & Dave Lyman

Description: Pediatric PAP mask fittings require sensitivity and compassion toward patients, encouragement of family support, and sometimes, imagination. In this course, sleep technicians, pediatric respiratory therapists, clinicians, and all others fitting pediatric patients will learn about diagnoses common in children requiring PAP masks, as well as the fundamentals for creating a comfortable, successful mask fitting.

 

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Explain mask fitting techniques for different ages.
  2. Discuss how certain medical conditions may require a different patient education style.
  3. Describe how caregiver involvement is important to mask fitting.
  4. Explain how to help the new PAP patient accept the mask.
  5. Identify sleep recommendations by age per the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
  6. Identify potential signs, symptoms, and diagnoses common in pediatric patients with obstructive sleep apnea.
 
 

Computer Skills

COMP002 - Navigating the Internet
Author: Amanda Osborn

This course is designed to introduce the beginning computer user to the distinctive intricacies of the Internet.

Learning objectives: 

  1. Describe a search engine and recognize its effectiveness in finding online information.
  2. Identify what a browser is, the types and their functions.  
  3. Recognize the ways a browser stores data and history and manages security options.
  4. Identify keyboard shortcuts to complete common computer tasks.
  5. Define what a hacker is and ways to protect against their threats.

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
COMP003 - Electronic Communications
Author: Jackie Woodman

Electronic technology in the form of email and the Internet has transformed the workplace in more ways than anyone could have imagined 20 years ago. These technological advances, while beneficial, pose special problems for employers. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the advantages of email and the Internet as forms of communication in the workplace; 2. Develop policies regarding the acceptable use of email and Internet at your organization; 3. Explain the "Three E's," the primary ways that organizations can reduce electronic risk; 4. Explain potential effects of forwarding email; 5. Define "spam" and "credibility by association;" 6. Explain the three parts of hoax and chain letter emails; 7. Explain the two exceptions to prohibitions set forth by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act of 1986. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
COMP004 - Email and Voicemail Etiquette
Author: Louis Feuer

Spanish version:  COMP004S - Etiqueta en Correos Electrónicos y Mensajes de Voz

This course focuses on the appropriate use of two of the most powerful communication tools at our disposal today: email and voicemail. Learning objectives: 1. Explain how clarity, conciseness, format and message length can make your emails more effective; 2. Explain ways that you can personalize your emails; 3. Explain how using the active voice can make your emails more effective; 4. Explain how proofreading and using spell checker can improve your emails; 5. Identify the “hazards” to watch out when creating and sending emails; 6. Explain how the tone of your voice can dramatically affect the results of voicemail; 7. Explain why the first few seconds of a voice message often determines whether or not the message will be acted upon; 8. Identify the 10 most important things to remember when leaving a voice message. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
COMP005 - Catch the Phish

This course outlines ways to help identify phishing emails and provides numerous real examples. No CEUs are awarded for this course.

 
 

Customer Service

CUST001 - Customer Service Strategies
Author: Louis Feuer

In this course you will discover the needed techniques to provide excellent customer service and how to monitor your service. Learning objectives: 1. Define customer service; 2. Explain whose responsibility it is within your company to provide customer service; 3. Identify barriers to quality service; 4. Identify ways to monitor the customer service your company provides; 5. Explain how to determine what the customer wants and how to make the customer feel important; 6. Explain how your company can learn from your customers. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
CUST002 - Retaining the Customers You Already Have
Author: Merideth McDonald

This course defines customer service, who the customer is, how to deal with customers effectively, and proper telephone techniques. Learning objectives: 1. Define what customer service is and identify characteristics of quality customer service; 2. Define what a customer is and state the proper techniques needed on your part to deal effectively with your customers; 3. Demonstrate proper techniques when working with customers over the telephone; 4. State which behaviors on your part can contribute to antagonizing a customer and how to avoid those behaviors. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
CUST003 - Helping Individuals with Disabilities
Author: Chelsie Luhring

Whether you are working with a customer in a home medical equipment store or you are a health care provider working with a patient, this course provides you with an understanding of how to best help individuals with disabilities.  Learning objectives: 1.    List examples of person-first language. 2.    Compare assistive technology devices. 3.    Identify ways to incorporate etiquette when it comes to helping individuals with disabilities.  4.    Explain what questions are appropriate in identifying a service animal. 5.    Identify ways to best communicate with a person with sensory overload. 6.    Discuss why presuming competence is always the best approach when working with individuals with disabilities. 7.    Compare types of Telecommunications Relay Services.  8.    Describe ways to create greater accessibility on company websites. 9.    Explain which businesses need to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
CUST005 - First Impressions: You Only Get One Shot
Author: Louis Feuer

You never get a second chance to make a first impression, whether it’s in person, over the phone or via email. This course provides you the tools for handling those first impression opportunities. Learning objectives: 1. List the attributes of both a positive and negative first impression; 2. Identify where first impressions can take place; 3. Explain how you can make a positive first impression via email; 4. Explain the importance of a dress code and how appearance can affect first impressions; 5. Describe how answering the telephone can affect first impressions. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
 

Disease Management

DMGT001 - Disease Management Programs
Author: Lee Thompson

Disease management is one approach that aims to provide better care while reducing the costs of caring for the chronically ill. This course was provided by the Center on an Aging Society. Learning objectives: 1. Explain why disease management programs have been developed and implemented; 2. Identify the six components of disease management; 3. Identify the disease states for which most disease management programs have been implemented in the United States; 4. Site examples of disease management programs that have reduced health care costs; 5. Site examples of disease management programs that have improved patient quality of life; 6. Identify the challenges that are common among all disease management programs. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT002 - Health Risks of Being Overweight
Author: Weight-Control Information Network

This course examines the health risks of being overweight, such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke, cancer, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, gallbladder disease, and fatty liver disease. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the health risks associated with overweight; 2. Explain how each disease is linked to overweight; 3. Explain how losing weight can reduce or eliminate the health risks associated with overweight. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT004 - Understanding Obesity
Author: Deb Martin

Over 40 percent of American adults have obesity, putting them at increased health risk for chronic diseases such as heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and some forms of cancer. This course provides basic information about obesity. Learning objectives: 1. Define obesity; 2. Identify the causes of obesity; 3. Explain how obesity is measured; 4. Explain how to use the Body Mass Index; 5. Identify the consequences or health risks of obesity; 6.Explain how obesity can be treated. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
DMGT005a - Overview of the Immune System
Author: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

This course explains how the human immune system works, how vaccinations work to ward off existing and emerging infectious diseases, and some of the great strides that are being made to detect, treat and prevent disorders of the immune system. Learning objectives: 1. Explain how the immune system functions to ward off infection; 2. Explain the role of B cells, T cells and antibodies within the immune system; 3. Define emerging infectious diseases; 4. Identify at least three new ways that vaccines can be administered to fight infection; 5. Define immune deficiency diseases and autoimmune diseases. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. You should complete this course before completing the following courses: "Hepatitis C: Issues, Economics and Care Strategies," "Overview of Hepatitis B," and "Overview of HIV/AIDS." 

 
DMGT005b - Overview of the Respiratory System
Author: NHLBI

The respiratory system is a group of organs and tissues that help humans breathe. The main parts of the respiratory system are the airways, the lungs and linked blood vessels, and the muscles that enable breathing. This course provides an overview of the human respiratory system. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the major organs and tissues that make up the human respiratory system; 2. Identify the various airways within the respiratory system and explain the functions of each in the breathing cycle; 3. Explain how the lungs function during the breathing cycle; 4. Identify the muscles near the lungs that help during the breathing cycle; 5. Describe how inhalation and exhalation happens and what controls our breathing; 6. Identify at least four major lung diseases that can affect breathing. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT005c - Overview of the Digestive System
Author: Jim Belson

The digestive tract consists of organs that help break down food into components that the body uses for energy and for building and repairing cells and tissues. This course provides an overview of the human digestive system, including a discussion of the major diseases that can affect it. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the major organs that make up the human digestive system; 2. Explain the function of each major digestive system organ; 3. Explain how food is digested and moved through the digestive tract; 4. Explain the role of digestive juices in the digestive process; 5. Explain the nutrient absorption and transportation process; 6. Identify at least five major digestive system diseases. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT005d - Overview of the Musculoskeletal System
Author: Jim Belson

The human musculoskeletal system includes the bones of the skeleton and the muscles (along with the cartilages, ligaments, and other tissue) that connect the bones and work with the bones to maintain body position and produce controlled movement. This course provides an overview of the musculoskeletal system including a discussion of the major disorders that can affect it. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the two main parts of the skeletal system; 2. Describe the functions of the bones and how that functionality can be maintained; 3. Describe the two different shapes of bones and two different types of tissue they contain; 4. Identify the three different types of muscle and their respective functions; 5. Describe the anatomical and physiological function of joints, tendons, cartilage and ligaments; 6. Identify the disorders of the musculoskeletal system. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT005e - Overview of Circulatory System
Author: Jim Belson

The human circulatory system is also called the cardiovascular system and includes the heart, blood vessels and blood. This course provides an overview of the circulatory system including a discussion of the major disorders that can affect it. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the anatomical organs that make up the circulatory system; 2. Explain the basic functions of the organs of the circulatory system; 3. Describe the sequence of events that make up the cardiac cycle; 4. Explain the differences between arteries and veins; 5. Explain the function of blood and its properties; 6. Describe the four major types of circulatory disease. To successfully complete this course you are required to visit each page and score 80 percent or better on the final test.

 
DMGT005f - Overview of the Nervous System
Author: Jim Belson

The human nervous system is the body’s control center and communications network; it controls all biological processes and movement in the body. The nervous system can also receive information and interpret it via electrical signals used in the system. This course provides an overview of the nervous system including a discussion of the major diseases that can affect it. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the two divisions of the nervous system and their relationship: 2. Explain the functions of the nervous system including its regulatory and coordinating functions; 3. Identify the four divisions of the brain and their purposes; 4. Describe the two parts of the peripheral nervous system and communication between the peripheral nervous system and the external and internal environment; 5. Identify the major medical conditions and diseases that affect the nervous system. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
DMGT005g - Overview of the Lymphatic System
Author: Jim Belson

The lymphatic system is a major part of the human body's immune system, comprising of a network of conduits of nodes, ducts and vessels that produce and transport a fluid called lymph from tissues to the bloodstream. This course provides an overview of the lymphatic system including a discussion of the major diseases that can affect it. Identify and explain the three parts and three principal functions of the lymphatic system. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the organs that make up the lymphatic system; 2. Describe how lymph moves through the body and the organization of lymph drainage; 3. Describe the two types of lymphatic vessels; 4. Discuss the major cancers, infections and other diseases of the lymphatic system To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT005h - Overview of the Integumentary System
Author: Kassandra Einfelt

The human integumentary system is comprised of the skin, specialized tissues and accessory structures that include hair follicles, nails and skin glands. This course will provide an overview of the integumentary system including major disorders impacting its function. Learning objectives: 1. List general function of the skin and accessory structures; 2. Describe the layers of the skin; 3. Determine the factors involving skin color; 4. Describe burn severity; 5. Summarize lifespan changes of the integumentary system.  To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT005i - Overview of the Reproductive System
Author: Kassandra Einfelt

The human reproductive system functions to produce male and female sex cells (egg and sperm cells). Reproduction occurs when a male sex cell fertilizes a female sex cell. This fusion brings about new life. This course provides a general overview of the structure and function of the male and female reproductive systems including a discussion of the major diseases that can affect them. Learning objectives: 1. List the general functions of the male reproductive organs and accessory structures; 2. Describe the process of spermatogenesis; 3. Explain the regulation of hormones that control activities of the male reproductive system; 4. List the general functions of the female reproductive organs and accessory structures; 5. Describe the process of oogenesis (egg production); 6. Explain the regulation of the hormones that control activities of the female reproductive system; 7. Summarize lifespan changes of the reproductive system for men and women. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT005j - Overview of the Endocrine System
Author: Kassandra Einfelt

The human endocrine system includes specialized cells, tissues and organs referred to as endocrine glands. These glands secrete hormones in the blood stream or to a specific site in the body. This system works directly with the nervous system which sends and receives signals from the endocrine system to produce, secrete and/or inhibit hormones. This course provides an overview of the endocrine system including a discussion of the major disorders that can affect it. Learning objectives: 1. Identify and locate the glands of the endocrine system; 2. Describe the general functions of the endocrine glands; 3. List specific hormones and their function; 4. Discuss how negative feedback mechanisms regulate hormone secretion; 5. Describe common disorders of the endocrine system; 6. Describe some changes with the aging process and how they affect the endocrine system. To successfully complete this course you are required to visit each page and score 80 percent or better on the final test. 

 
DMGT005k - Overview of the Urinary System
Author: Kassandra Einfelt

The human urinary system includes the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder and urethra. These organs work together to maintain osmotic balance in the body while removing excess compounds including toxic substances and metabolic waste. This course provides an overview of the urinary system including a discussion of the major disorders that can affect it. Learning objectives: 1. Name the organs of the urinary system and describe their basic functions; 2. Describe the locations and general structure of the kidneys; 3. Explain the process of urine production and secretion; 4. Identify common disorders of the urinary system; 5. Understand lifespan changes of the urinary system. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT006 - Overview of Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Author: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. In other words, the body damages its own nerve cells outside of the brain and spinal cord. This course provides an overview of the disorder, including descriptions of symptoms, causes and treatment options. Learning objectives: 1. Define Guillain-Barré syndrome; 2. Describe the common signs and symptoms of the disorder; 3. Explain the causes of GBS; 4. Describe treatment options available.  To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. You should complete the course “Overview of the Immune System” before taking this course. 

 
DMGT007 - Overview of Osteoporosis
Author: International Osteoporosis Foundation

Osteoporosis is a disease in which the density of bone is reduced, increasing the risk of fracture. Around the world, it affects one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50. This course examines this serious world-wide health problem. Learning objectives: 1. Define osteoporosis and its prevalence throughout the world; 2. Explain how osteoporosis is detected and diagnosed; 3. Explain what can be done to prevent the onset of the disease; 4. Explain how osteoporosis can be treated. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT008a - Medical Terminology - Part 1
Author: William J. Dyche, Ph.D

This is the first of a 3-part series of modules, which make up a short course in medical terminology.  This course is based on the “Short Course in Medical Terminology” written by Dr. William J. Dyche, Professor of Anatomy, Des Moines University – Osteopathic Medical Center.  Because these modules build on one another, it is highly recommended that you complete this series in order: Part 1, then Part 2, then Part 3. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the two major categories of medical terms; 2. Identify the three basic parts of medical terms; 3. Explain the meanings of many of the terms of the circulatory, nervous, digestive, respiratory, urinary, reproductive and musculoskeletal systems; 4. Explain the meanings of many cancer-related terms; 5. Identify the major categories of drugs and what they are used for. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT008b - Medical Terminology - Part 2
Author: William J. Dyche, Ph.D

This is the second of a 3-part series of modules, which make up a short course in medical terminology.  This course is based on the “Short Course in Medical Terminology” written by Dr. William J. Dyche, Professor of Anatomy, Des Moines University – Osteopathic Medical Center.  Because these modules build on one another, it is highly recommended that you complete this series in order: Part 1, then Part 2, then Part 3. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the two major categories of medical terms; 2. Identify the three basic parts of medical terms; 3. Explain the meanings of many of the terms of the circulatory, nervous, digestive, respiratory, urinary, reproductive and musculoskeletal systems; 4. Explain the meanings of many cancer-related terms; 5. Identify the major categories of drugs and what they are used for. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT008c - Medical Terminology - Part 3
Author: William J. Dyche, Ph.D

This is the third and final part of a 3-part series of modules, which make up a short course in medical terminology. This course is based on the “Short Course in Medical Terminology” written by Dr. William J. Dyche, Professor of Anatomy, Des Moines University – Osteopathic Medical Center.  Because these modules build on one another, it is highly recommended that you complete this series in order: Part 1, then Part 2, then Part 3. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the two major categories of medical terms; 2. Identify the three basic parts of medical terms; 3. Explain the meanings of many of the terms of the circulatory, nervous, digestive, respiratory, urinary, reproductive and musculoskeletal systems; 4. Explain the meanings of many cancer-related terms; 5. Identify the major categories of drugs and what they are used for. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT009 - Overview of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Author: The Muscular Dystrophy Association

"Muscular dystrophy" is a broad term used to label gene-related (hereditary) muscle-destroying disorders that affect muscles throughout the body. There are more than 20 specific genetic disorders considered to be muscular dystrophy.  This course examines Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, the most common of the muscular dystrophies. Learning objectives: 1. Define muscular dystrophy and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy; 2. Identify the symptoms of DMD; 3. Define “dystrophin” and explain its role in causing DMD; 4. Explain the progression of DMD; 5. Explain how DMD is diagnosed; 6. Explain how DMD is treated. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT010 - Overview of Diabetes
Author: Deb Martin

Each year, 1.4 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes. This course provides an overview of the disease, providing definitions of diabetes and pre-diabetes, prevention tips and statistics related to one of the most under-diagnosed and deadly of diseases. Learning objectives: 1. Define the types of diabetes; 2. Explain methods to treat the types of diabetes; 3. Define pre-diabetes; 4. Explain steps to take to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes; 5. Describe the possible complications of diabetes and explain steps to take to prevent those complications; 6. Describe the prevalence of diabetes within the United States. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT012 - Eating and Diabetes
Author: National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse

Keeping blood glucose at a healthy level will prevent or slow down diabetes problems. This course describes what people can do to keep their blood glucose at a healthy level. Before taking this course, you should complete the course "Overview of Diabetes." Learning objectives: 1. Explain how food affects blood glucose; 2. Explain how what and when a person eats affect their diabetes; 3. Describe the signs of hypoglycemia; 4. Explain how, by eating the recommended servings of the groups that make up the Food Pyramid, a person can reduce his or her risk of diabetes; 5. Explain how to measure food servings. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT014 - Overview of Parkinson's Disease
Author: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Parkinson's disease is a progressive disorder of the central nervous system that affects more than 1.5 million men and women in the United States. This course provides an overview of the disease, including descriptions of symptoms, causes and treatment options. Learning objectives: 1. Define Parkinson’s disease; 2. Describe common and secondary symptoms of the disease; 3. Describe potential causes of Parkinson’s; 4. Describe treatment options available. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
DMGT015 - Overview of Multiple Sclerosis
Author: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Multiple sclerosis is one of the most common diseases of the central nervous system. This course provides an overview of the disease, including descriptions of symptoms, causes and treatment options. Learning objectives: 1. Define multiple sclerosis; 2. Describe common and secondary symptoms of the disease; 3. Describe potential causes of MS; 4. Describe treatment options available. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT016 - Overview of Cystic Fibrosis
Author: Scott Sergeant

Cystic fibrosis is a complex, inherited disease that affects tissues that produce mucus secretions. This course provides an overview of the disease, including descriptions of symptoms, causes and treatment options. Learning objectives: 1. Define cystic fibrosis; 2. Describe common symptoms and complications of the disease; 3. Explain the cause of cystic fibrosis; 4. Describe treatment options available. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT017 – Overview of Hepatitis C
Author: Chelsie Luhring

Description: This course provides an overview of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, symptoms, testing, prevention, available treatments, and outcomes.

Objectives

After completing this course, you will be able to:

  1. List groups most at risk for HCV.
  2. Describe how chronic HCV is diagnosed.
  3. Identify which HCV genotype is most difficult to treat.
  4. Explain the reasons why an HCV vaccine does not exist yet.
  5. Discuss clinical features and treatment options for patients who have been diagnosed with hepatitis C.
  6. Discuss the course of HCV infection.
  7. Identify the ways HCV can be prevented.
 
DMGT018 - Overview of Tuberculosis
Author: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Nearly one-third of the world`s population is infected with Tuberculosis (TB), and it kills almost 3 million people per year. However, in the United States, through a broad range of Federal and community initiatives, national TB rates have declined steadily over the past decade. This course provides an overview of the disease, distinguishing between active and latent TB, and explaining how a person is tested for TB. Learning objectives: 1. Define Tuberculosis; 2. Identify the symptoms of TB; 3. Explain how TB is spread; 4. Explain the differences between active TB disease and latent TB infection; 5. Explain how a person is tested for TB; 6. Explain the treatment options for TB. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT023 - Overview of Hepatitis B
Author: Scott Sergeant

Health care worker run the risk for occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, including hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS. This course provides an overview of hepatitis B, how it is spread, its symptoms and diagnoses, and its vaccination. Learning objectives: 1. Define bloodborne pathogens; 2. Define hepatitis; 3. Explain the damage hepatitis B can do to the human liver; 4. Explain how hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection can occur; 5. Describe the symptoms of acute and chronic hepatitis B; 6. Explain how HBV is diagnosed; 7. Describe how HBV can be prevented and treated. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. You should complete the course “Overview of the Immune System” before taking this course. 

 
DMGT024 - Overview of HIV/AIDS
Author: Scott Sergeant

Health care worker run the risk for occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, including hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS. This course provides an overview of HIV, how it is spread, its symptoms and diagnoses, and its vaccination. Learning objectives: 1. Define human immunodeficiency virus (HIV); 2. Define AIDS; 3. Explain how HIV is transmitted and how the virus harms the body; 4. Explain how HIV progresses to AIDS; 5. List the possible symptoms during primary or acute HIV infection; 6. Identify the two types of tests commonly used to detect HIV infection; 7. Explain at least two ways that HIV/AIDS can be prevented; 8. Describe the most common treatment for HIV; 9. Explain why it is recommended that HIV-infected persons be screened for hepatitis C virus (HCV). To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. You should complete the course “Overview of the Immune System” before taking this course. 

 
DMGT026 - Overview of ALS
Author: ALS Association

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. This course provides an overview of the disease – commonly known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease” – including descriptions of symptoms, causes and treatment options. Learning objectives: 1. Define amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; 2. Describe the common signs and symptoms of the disease; 3. Explain the causes of ALS; 4. Describe treatment options available. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT027 - Overview of Arthritis
Author: The Arthritis Foundation

Arthritis is a complex disorder that comprises more than 100 distinct conditions that can affect people at any stage of life. This course provides an overview of two of the most common forms of arthritis: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. This course also looks at a condition few people associate with children: juvenile arthritis. Learning objectives: 1. Define osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and juvenile arthritis (JA); 2. Describe the common signs and symptoms of the disorders; 3. Explain the causes of OA, RA and JA; 4. Describe treatment options available for each of the conditions. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT031 - Overview of Lymphedema
Author: Jill Blaser

Lymphedema is a medical condition that causes swelling and can affect the immune system. This course examines the symptoms, stages, causes, and treatments of lymphedema and medical procedures used to diagnose it. Learning objectives: 1. Define lymphedema; 2. Identify the symptoms of lymphedema; 3. Explain the four stages of lymphedema; 4. Explain the two causes of lymphedema; 5. Explain the link of breast cancer and lymphedema; 6. Identify medical tests used to diagnose lymphedema; 7. Describe ways to treat lymphedema. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT033 - Death and Dying
Author: Mary McGeough, RN, BSN

One of the realities of working in the health care arena is that patients die. Dying is a personal journey that everyone approaches in his or her own unique way. How individuals cope during this part of life is usually shaped by their previous experiences with death along with their cultural attitudes and beliefs. This course provides you with information you can use when dealing with dying patients and their caregivers and family members. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the stages of dying; 2. List rules of etiquette that should be followed in the client’s home; 3. Explore legal and ethical issues that pertain to the dying client; 4. Discuss hospice, palliative and community services available to the dying client and family. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
DMGT034 - Overview of Cerebral Palsy
Author: Jim Belson

Cerebral palsy is a group of movement, muscle tone, learning, hearing, seeing and thinking disorders involving brain and nervous system functions. This course provides an overview of cerebral palsy including its symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications, and how the condition is diagnosed and treated. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the symptoms of cerebral palsy; 2. Describe the causes and risk factors of cerebral palsy; 3. Describe the complications that may result from cerebral palsy; 4. Explain how cerebral palsy is diagnosed; 5. Describe the treatment modalities for cerebral palsy. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT035 - Overview of Influenza
Author: Linda Fisk

This course examines the biology of influenza and types of vaccinations. It also discusses signs and symptoms, lab diagnoses and measures to control infection. Also provided in this course are a brief history of influenza pandemics, the avian flu (H5N1) and current research being conducted. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the three types of influenza; 2. Explain how influenza viruses change; 3. Define “pandemic” and identify past influenza pandemics; 4. Identify signs and symptoms of influenza; 5. Explain how influenza is diagnosed; 6. Identify infection control measures used relating to influenza; 7. Identify the types of vaccinations and which groups of people are recommended for vaccination; 8. Describe current H5N1 research and the importance of it; 9. Identify helpful facts to remember when traveling that pertain to influenza. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT037 - Overview of Enteral Nutrition
Author: Christine Ames, RN

Health care has come a long way since the first attempts were made to offer patients life-saving nourishment through a tube inserted into the person’s nose with the “hope” that it ended up in the right place. The options available today are varied and suit the needs of all types of patients, from infant to elderly. This course will explain the different methods of providing enteral nutrition and the conditions that may require their use. Also discussed will be appropriate care and steps for completing administration of feedings and medications. Learning objectives: 1. Name the general types of feeding tubes used in a health care setting; 2. List four conditions that may require feeding tube use; 3. Describe complications of feeding tubes that may occur; 4. Relate appropriate care of a feeding tube and insertion site, following correct infection control techniques 5. Explain steps to complete a feeding via a tube; 6. Discuss proper medication administration via a feeding tube. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT038a - Overview of Non-Cancerous Breast Conditions
Author: Jim Belson

This is the first of a two-part series of courses providing an overview of breast conditions in women. Non-cancerous (benign) breast conditions are very common and can be found in most women. This course reviews some of the signs and symptoms of benign breast conditions and how they are found and diagnosed. We recommend you complete this course before completing the course “DMGT038b – Overview of Breast Cancer.” Learning objectives: 1. Explain the differences between fibrosis and cysts and the other benign breast conditions; 2. Explain which diagnostic tests can be administered to determine whether or not a breast condition is cancerous; 3. Discuss which benign breast conditions require treatment and why; 4. Identify the risk factors for benign breast conditions; 5. Describe what to look for when doing a breast self-exam. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT038b - Overview of Breast Cancer
Author: Jim Belson

This course provides an overview of breast cancer, the most common form of non-skin cancer among women in the United States. Explain the basics of what breast cancer is and its incidence. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the signs and symptoms of breast cancer; 2. Describe the causes of and risk factors for breast cancer; 3. Describe the tests given to diagnose breast cancer and the levels of staging; 4. Explain the types of treatments available for breast cancer. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT040 - Overview of Dementia
Author: Jim Belson

The word “dementia” is a general term that describes a collection of symptoms caused by a number of different disorders that affect the brain. This course provides an overview of the types, causes, risk factors, and treatments of and for dementia. Learning objectives: 1. Define dementia; 2. Identify the types of dementia; 3. Describe the signs and symptoms of dementia; 4. Explain the risk factors for dementia; 5. Describe the tests used to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias; 6. Discuss the treatments for and methods of coping with dementia. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
DMGT041 - Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Author: Deb Martin, RN, BSN

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a novel virus that causes respiratory disease in persons infected, which can range from mild symptoms such as a common cold to more severe diseases – even death. This course provides health care workers with both individual and workplace practices to help prevent the spread of transmission and ultimately keep patients, team members and the public safe.

 

Objectives

 

Upon completion, you will be able to:

 

1. Describe the illnesses caused by coronaviruses.

2. Discuss the discovery of COVID-19.

3. Identify ways to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.

4. Identify the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines available in the United States.

5. Explain the amount of alcohol necessary in hand sanitizer for proper cleansing of the hands.

 

 

 
DMGT042 - PPE and COVID-19
Author: CDC

Proper donning and doffing of personal protective equipment (PPE) is vital to the health and safety of health care workers and patients during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This microlearning course offers a video and step-by-step guidance for hand hygiene and PPE usage based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's interim infection control recommendations for patients with or under investigation for COVID-19.

 
 

HIPAA

HIP001 - Understanding HIPAA
Author: Jill Blaser

Spanish version:  HIP001S - Entendiendo la HIPAA

This is the first of a two-part series of courses about the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). This course provides an overview of HIPAA, including the reasons for the law, how it is enforced, how the law has changed over time and how HIPAA relates to the health care industry. You should complete this course before completing part two of this series (“HIP002 – Working with HIPAA). Learning objectives: 1. Describe the purpose of HIPAA and identify which government agency is in charge of its regulation; 2. Explain the difference between a covered entity and a business associate; 3. Identify and explain the Privacy Rule, Security Rule, HITECH Act, Final Omnibus Rule and Breach of Notification Rule; 4. Explain what a breach is and how to HIPAA requires it to be handled. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HIP002 - Working with HIPAA
Author: Jill Blaser

Spanish version:  HIP002S - Trabajando con la HIPAA

This course is the second of a two-part series about the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). It is intended to apply your knowledge of HIPAA basics to the workplace. You should complete part one of this series (“HIP001 – Understanding HIPAA”) before taking this course. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the duties of a HIPAA privacy officer; 2. Explain the Minimum Necessary Standard ("need to know"); 3. Identify both visual and verbal risks and keys to reduce those risks; 4. Express patient rights as stated by HIPAA; 5. Explain how HIPAA is affected by emergency situations; 6. Describe types of HIPAA violations and their consequences. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HIP003 - Managing HIPAA
Author: Jill Blaser

This course is written for those serving in the required position of the privacy officer. It provides an overview of the job requirements as determined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). Learning objectives: 1. List the job responsibilities of a privacy officer as determined by HIPAA; 2. Describe the difference between a risk assessment and a security evaluation; 3. Identify how the role of the privacy officer relates to management and the company's employees; 4. List the required elements of the Notice of Privacy Practices; 5. Describe the relationship between the business associate and your company. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
 

Home Modifications

HMOD001 - Home Accessibility Remodeling
Author: Bill Stelzer

This is the first of a 4-part series of courses designed to introduce the HME/DME This is the first of a 4-part series of courses designed to introduce the HME/DME provider, home remodelers, and other dedicated and interested parties to the concept of home accessibility remodeling for independent living, in-home assisted living, and aging in place. This course defines home accessibility remodeling: a proactive housing and care alternative for persons with disabilities and others who wish to remain in their homes as their personal health changes and as they grow older. Learning objectives: 1. Define home accessibility remodeling, independent living, assisted living at home, and aging in place and explain how they differ from traditional housing; 2. List at least three reasons why home accessibility remodeling has become one of the fastest-growing segments of the residential remodeling industry; 3. List at least four government actions that have provided the impetus for the development of home accessibility remodeling programs throughout the United States; 4. Describe the benefits of home accessibility remodeling programs to customers, caregivers, communities and other community organizations. 5. Identify at least 10 home accessibility remodeling stakeholders within your community or service area; 6. List at least five proactive steps you can take to develop your network of home accessibility remodeling partners and stakeholders. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HMOD002 - Independent Living Strategy
Author: Bill Stelzer

This is the second of a 4-part series of courses designed to introduce the HME/DME providers, home remodelers and other dedicated and interested parties to the concept of home accessibility remodeling for independent living, in-home assisted living, and aging in place. This course - along with part 3 of this series, HMOD003 - Accessibility Design Solutions - will guide you through the selling and designing of home modifications using an independent/assisted living strategy. Learning objectives: 1. Define independent/assisted living strategy; 2. Explain the eight steps to arrive at an independent/assisted living strategy; 3. Define universal design; 4. Explain the relationship among the four A's of design: accessible design, adaptable design, affordable design and aesthetical design.To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HMOD003 - Accessibility Design Solutions
Author: Bill Stelzer

This is the third of a 4-part series of courses designed to introduce the HME/DME provider, home remodelers and other dedicated and interested parties to the concept of home accessibility remodeling for independent living, in-home assisted living and aging in place. This course reviews five different levels of home accessibility products and services and looks at some of the more common types of modifications that could be used in specific areas of a client's home. Learning objectives: 1. Identify examples of five levels of home accessibility remodeling products and services; 2. Explain the advantages of at least five types of modifications that can be made to entryways to a client's home; 3. Describe at least five relatively inexpensive modifications that can be made to the inside of a client's home; 4. Describe at least six modifications that can be made to a client's bathroom in order to make the room safer; 5. Describe at least four modifications that can be made to a client's kitchen. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HMOD004 - Marketing and Growing Your Home Accessibility Remodeling Business
Author: Bill Stelzer

This is the fourth of a 4-part series of courses designed to introduce the HME/DME providers, home remodelers and other dedicated and interested parties to the concept of home accessibility remodeling for independent living, in-home assisted living, and aging in place. This course demonstrates how home accessibility remodeling programs can be developed, marketed, and successfully grown for the benefit of potential customers and the providers themselves, resulting in improved cash flow and profits. Learning objectives: 1. Identify your target marketplaces and explain how to connect with those marketplaces; 2. Compare the three methods by which HME/DME providers, home remodelers and other dedicated and interested parties can secure home accessibility remodeling; 3. Identify the client niches and payment categories for home accessibility remodeling; 4. Explain the techniques that providers could use to market their home accessibility remodeling; 5. Explain the types of risk that HME/DME providers, home remodelers, and other dedicated and interested parties face when entering the home accessibility remodeling business. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
 

Human Relations

HR001 - Americans with Disabilities Act
Author: Dorothy de Souza Guedes and Paul Greene

This course provides a general overview of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), the world's first comprehensive civil rights law for people with disabilities. This course will review Title I which covers ADA and employment: what types of businesses must comply, which job applicants and employees are protected, and the process for the accommodation of people with disabilities at work.

This course will also consider why the ADA was written, the importance of its intent, illustrate common myths, and present employer benefits of following the ADA law. This course is intended to give guidance to people working in the health care industry and is not intended as a substitute for legal advice.

 

Objectives

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

  1. Recognize who is considered a qualified individual with a disability as described by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
  2. Define the employment practices covered under Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
  3. Identify job interview questions that are considered discriminatory.
  4. Identify conditions included in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
  5. Describe the concept of reasonable accommodation and give examples of such accommodations.
  6. Explain the differences between essential and non-essential job functions.
  7. Identify the value of employing a person with a disability.

Continuing education: 1.0 Category II CPE credits by the Board for Orthotist/Prosthetist Certification (BOC); VGM Education is authorized by IACET to offer 0.1 CEUs for this program.   

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course survey.

 
HR002 - Developing a New Employee Orientation Program
Author: Cindy Wiles

This course will cover how to effectively develop, deliver and evaluate a successful new employee orientation program. This course also includes a variety of useful checklists, activities and evaluation forms. Learning objectives: 1. Design a new employee orientation program; 2. Determine the necessary objectives of your training program; 3. Effectively use nonverbal and verbal communication to your advantage as a presenter; 4. Apply techniques to deal with difficult trainees; 5. Explain the three reasons for evaluating an orientation program; 6. Design a training evaluation that meets the needs of your organization. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR003 - Employee Orientation
Author: Kara Harris, Stephanie Mangrich

This course describes how to develop an effective orientation program. Learning objectives: 1. Recognize the importance of orientation programs as a motivational tool to aid employee retention; 2. State the importance of orientation programs as a part of total performance management; 3. Use the orientation process as a means for developing a loyal workforce. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR004 - Interviewing and Hiring
Author: Brooke Kraft

This course will help you ensure a meaningful candidate experience and develop a framework to interview and hire in a lawful manner.

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Explain full lifecycle recruiting and the importance of the candidate experience.
  2. Identify the process to review resumes.
  3. Identify ways to prepare and structure a hiring interview.
  4. Identify various legal considerations with interview questions.
 
HR005 - Keys to Managing Your Stress
Author: Heather Woody

In this course, you will learn powerful ways to stop stress even before it arrives. You will also learn effective ways of handling the stress that does occur in your life, through healthy, productive outlets. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the three major types of stress; 2. Define job stress and identify work-related sources of stress; 3. Explain how to detect early warning signals of stress; 4. Identify your own stress factors; 5. Explain ways you can manage your stress. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR006 - Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
Author: Chelsie Luhring

Spanish version: HR006S - La diversidad e inclusión en el lugar de trabajo

Diversity and inclusion are two important components of improving equality and advancement in the workplace. One cannot fully prosper without the other. This course is designed to provide both health care workers and employers a deeper understanding on the topic, a review of applicable federal laws, and guidance on how to implement the concepts of diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Learning objectives:

  1. Define diversity.
  2. Explain the concept of inclusion as it applies to the workplace.
  3. Contrast the differences between a workplace that is diverse and inclusive versus one that is diverse but not inclusive.
  4. Discuss systemic discrimination.
  5. Recognize individual actions, attitudes, and beliefs that impede diversity and inclusion.
  6. Identify ways to become more culturally aware.
  7. Describe federal laws that apply to diversity in the workplace.

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR008 - Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Author: Leanne Anthon

Spanish version:  HR008S - El Acoso Sexual en el Lugar de Trabajo 

Health care facilities strive to provide a positive, discrimination-free environment for employees. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination, which is a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Sexual harassment affects an individual’s employment, interferes with work performance, and creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment. This course will provide an overview of the issue of sexual harassment in the workplace, how it can be prevented, and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s (EEOC) process for receiving and resolving complaints.

 

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Define sexual harassment as it relates to the workplace and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
  2. Review U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines on sexual harassment.
  3. Outline the employer’s responsibility and liability in harassment situations.
  4. Discuss the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s (EEOC) investigative process.
  5. Discuss how to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course survey.

Continuing education: 1.0 Category II CPE credits by the Board for Orthotist/Prosthetist Certification (BOC); VGM Education is authorized by IACET to offer 0.1 CEUs for this program.

 
HR009 - Sexual Harassment Training for Managers
Author: Madison Kuester

This course discusses sexual harassment: how to identify it, its legal aspects, how to prevent it from happening in your organization, and how to conduct an equitable investigation.

Learning objectives:

  1. Define sexual harassment.
  2. Identify components of an effective anti-harassment policy.
  3. Recognize circumstances where the employer may be liable in sexual harassment claims.

 To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR010 - Stress Management
Author: Sara Bauer / Jason Sadler

This course will instruct you on how to recognize stress and give you effective tips to cope with it and eliminate it. Learning objective: 1. State how “awfulizer” statements can lead to stress, and demonstrate how to combat them with rational alternatives; 2. Define how stress is actually a pattern that can be easily recognized; 3. State effective measures you can take to handle certain emotions, such as fear, and how to handle stress. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR011 - Strategies for Working on a Healthcare Team
Author: Louis Feuer

This course discusses strategies you can use when working on healthcare teams. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the key elements in developing a quality working team; 2. Define the four major types of team members; 3. List important team rules to make sure you have an effective and productive healthcare team; 4. Explain the comments that are made by team members that will help you understand how they will positively or negatively affect the team's success; 5. Evaluate your current role on a healthcare team, and determine what your future role can be in making the team more productive; 6. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR012a - Recruiting & Retaining Employees - Part 1
Author: BusinessWeek.com

This is the first of a two-part series about recruiting and retaining employees. This first part of the series focuses on recruiting the best people for your company. Learning objectives: 1. Explain good staffing practices that are essential to your business; 2. Identify where to find skilled employees; 3. Describe how to use the internet as a valuable recruiting resource; 4. Describe how to attract prime employee candidates. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR012b - Recruiting & Retaining Employees - Part 2
Author: BusinessWeek.com

This is the second of a two-part series about recruiting and retaining employees. This course focuses on the resume screening process, filling an open position, and retaining your best employees. Learning objectives: 1. Explain how to review resumes; 2. Identify the steps for conducting an interview and offering a job to a candidate; 3. Explain how to retain your best employees, and keep them happy in your company. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR013 - Advance Directives
Author: Scott Sergeant

With an advance directive, patients can make known their wishes for future medical care in the event they become unable to make their own decisions about health care. This course provides information about the types of advance directives available. Learning objectives: 1. List the three types of advance directives; 2. Define living will; 3. Define durable power of attorney (DPA) for health care; 4. Define do not resuscitate order; 5. Explain the benefits and limitations of a living will and DPA for health care; 6. Explain the difference between a DPA for health care and DPA for financial purposes; 7. Define health care proxy; 8. List the methods by which an advance directive can be written. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR014 - Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse
Author: Helpguide.org

Each year, tens of thousands of children are traumatized by physical, sexual, and emotional abusers, or by caregivers who neglect them. As a representative of a health care provider, federal regulations require you to report any suspicions of child abuse. This course provides tips on identifying child abuse, and explains how you report your suspicions. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the prevalence of child abuse in the United States; 2. Explain the four primary types of child abuse; 3. List the warning signs of each type of child abuse; 4. List the possible causes of child abuse; 5. Describe the effects of child abuse; 6. Explain how to report suspected child abuse. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
HR015 - Identifying and Reporting Elder Abuse
Author: National Center on Elder Abuse

Spanish version: HR015S - Identificando y Reportando Maltrato de Adultos Mayores

Elder abuse is recognized as a continually increasing and serious problem in our society. Most states require you, as a health care provider, to report suspected elder abuse or neglect. This course provides tips on identifying elder abuse, and explains how you can report your suspicions. Learning objectives: 1. Define elder abuse and identify who is considered to be vulnerable to become a victim of abuse; 2. Identify who is most likely to be an abuser of older persons; 3. Identify the seven types of elder abuse, and the signs and symptoms of each; 4. Explain the three major risk factors of elder abuse; 5. Explain how to report any suspected elder abuse. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR016 - Patient Rights and Responsibilities
Author: Scott Sergeant and Mary McGeough

Spanish version: HR016S - Los Derechos y las Responsabilidades del Paciente 

People who are consumers of health care also have rights, including the right to receive quality care. Along with those rights come certain responsibilities. This course explains what those rights and responsibilities are as defined in 1997 by the Advisory Commission on Consumer Protection and Quality in the Health Care Industry. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the purpose of the Consumer Bill of Rights as outlined by the Advisory Commission on Consumer Protection and Quality in the Health Care Industry. 2. List at least five different patient rights and what they entail; 3. Explain the difference between “simple consent” and “informed consent;” 4. List at least 10 different patient responsibilities. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR017 - Meth and Selling Scheduled Listed Chemical Products
Author: DEA, U.S. Department of Justice

Methamphetamine addiction has grown to epidemic proportions in the United States. Chemicals used to make meth include ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, and phenylpropanolamine, which are found in many cough and cold products and are known as “scheduled listed chemical products” (or SLCPs). Recent federal legislation requires all “regulated sellers” of products containing these three products to self-certify with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) before selling the products. While this course does not satisfy the DEA’s self-certifying requirement, it does provide the information the DEA requires in order to self-certify. Learning objectives: 1. Define methamphetamine and explain how a meth user can be identified; 2. Define SLCPs and explain what ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, and phenylpropanolamine are designed to be used for; 3. Explain the purpose of the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act of 2005; 4. Explain the rules a regulated seller of SLCPs must follow to comply with the CMEA of 2005; 5. List the steps required to self-certify with the DEA in order to sell SLCPs containing ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, or phenylpropanolamine.To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR018 - Communication: What is It?
Author: Mary McGeough

Communication is the exchange of thoughts, opinions and information. Good communication skills are essential for every phase of our lives and the success of any organization depends on the capability of their employees to communicate. True communication occurs only when there is understanding between people. Effective communication occurs when there is a natural, smooth flow of information across levels, as well as within each team in the office. This online course will help you understand the basics of communication. Learning objectives: 1. Define communication; 2. Discuss the basic components of communication; 3. List several ways that communication occurs in the health care setting; 4. List several obstacles to communication; 5. List several things communication cannot do; 6. List several things communication can do. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR019a - Cultural Competence in Health Care - Part 1
Author: Chelsie Luhring

Spanish version:  HR019aS - Competencia Cultural en el Cuidado de la Salud – Parte 1

HR019a is the first part of a three-part course designed to help health care providers increase their understanding of a variety of cultures, religious beliefs, and spiritual practices as well as the age-appropriate care needed to serve better the needs of the individual patient within the health system. As the United States is becoming older and more racially and ethnically diverse, health care providers must become more culturally aware to ensure the best care for patients. In this course, you will learn about basic concepts of cultural diversity including values and worldview. You will also learn how cultural verbal and non-verbal communication differences affect your ability to care for patients.  

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Define terms related to cultural competence.
  2. Identify the basic concepts of cultural diversity including values, worldview, communication, and time orientation.
  3. Describe the process of developing cultural competency.
  4. Define terms used to describe negative attitudes toward differences: prejudice, stereotype, and discrimination.
  5. Explain cultural differences in communication styles, including verbal versus non-verbal, high-context versus low-context and affective versus neutral.
  6. Recognize sequential and synchronic cultures as they relate to time management.
 
HR019b - Cultural Competence in Health Care - Part 2
Author: Chelsie Luhring

HR019b is the second part of a three-part course designed to help health care providers increase their understanding of a variety of cultures, religious beliefs, and spiritual practices as well as the age-appropriate care needed to serve better the needs of the individual patient within the health system. In HR019b, you will learn how racial and cultural differences may affect health care needs and how care is delivered. You will also learn that religious beliefs are also common sources of conflict and misunderstanding in a health care setting. Religious and spiritual beliefs may also affect a person's needs relating to health care, death, and dying.

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. List basic cultural differences as they relate to white, black and African American, Native American and Alaska Native, Hispanic, Latino, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, and Asian peoples.
  2. Explain the difference between ancestry and place of birth.
  3. List the major religions in the United States and understand basic health care, death, and dying considerations of each.
  4. Discuss considerations to make when caring for patients with various religious and spiritual beliefs.
 
HR019c - Cultural Competence in Health Care - Part 3
Author: Chelsie Luhring

HR019c is the third part of a three-part course designed to help health care providers increase their understanding of a variety of cultures, religious beliefs, and spiritual practices as well as the age-appropriate care needed to serve better the needs of the individual patient within the health system. In HR019c, you will learn about age-specific competency as it relates to people from newborn to preschool, school-age children, adolescents, young adults, middle-aged adults, and older adults. You will learn that to provide proper care, the caregiver’s communication, and approach should be appropriate for the person’s age.

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Explain how age-specific considerations affect patient care.
  2. List the six age categories and age ranges for each.
  3. Discuss health care tips for each of the six age categories.
  4. Define the health care specialty, ethnogeriatrics.

 

 
HR020 - Harassment in the Workplace
Author: Jill Blaser

This course discusses the topic of harassment in the workplace and speaks specifically about workplace bullying. Learning objectives: 1. Define harassment.  2. Define bullying.  3. Identify how harassment and bullying differ.  4. Identify negative physical and mental effects of bullying.  5. Recognize ways your company can develop policies against bullying. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
HR021 - Cultural Differences in Death & Dying
Author: Melissa Reed, LNHA,MSW

Purpose:

The purpose of this course is to understand the cultural importance of the individual and those directly affected, including family and friends, in dealing with illness and death. As the U.S. becomes more ethnically and racially diverse and culturally complex, there is a need for understanding how to work with individuals who have different values, health beliefs, and perspectives about health and wellness than your own or those you are familiar with.

Attitudes toward death and bereavement are shaped by culture and influence how a patient perceives illness and makes decisions. Cultural differences are important for providers to understand and value. It is essential for providers to assess the importance and specifics of an individual culture. The geographical location of the individual can directly influence their traditions and rituals.

Objectives:
1.    Identify the significance of culture at the time of illness and death.
2.    Identify one’s own self-awareness of culture.
3.    Identify the stages of professional cultural competency.
4.    List cultural backgrounds and rituals around the world and throughout the United States.

 
HR022 - LGBTQ in Health Care
Author: Heather Johnson

LGBTQ individuals have faced many challenges that have kept them in the closet or forced them back into the closet because of discrimination and bullying from friends and family, health care workers, and the general public. This self-study will help health care staff understand LGBTQ terminology and ways to provide compassionate, LGBTQ-informed care.

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to:

  1. Define LGBTQ terminology.
  2. Explain the historical effects for LGBTQ patients.
  3. Discuss how to create a welcoming environment for LGBTQ individuals.
 
HR023 – Addressing Individual and Systemic Issues
Author: Chelsie Luhring

In this course, learners will need to look not only at the systemic issues of racism in the health care industry, but also their own biases, prejudices, and influence on patients’ care. Becoming knowledgeable and more comfortable with often uncomfortable truths, acknowledging differences, and understanding the issues that both health care workers and patients face are steps in breaking down historical barriers and broadening one’s perspectives.

 

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Distinguish between bias and prejudice.
  2. Define white privilege.
  3. Discuss the historical significance of racism within health care and how it affects persons of color receiving care today.
  4. Recognize who has access to care.
  5. Explain the rights of immigrants and those whose first language is not English in the context of health care.
  6. Identify ways to implement cultural competency within your workplace.
  7. Recognize and appropriately respond to instances of microaggressions.
 
HR024 - Human Trafficking
Author: Chelsie Luhring

By taking this course, you will learn to identify human trafficking, understand the duties of mandatory reporters, and know to how to resource and support survivors. 

Objectives

  1. Define human trafficking.
  2. Identify the types of human trafficking.
  3. Discuss the signs of human trafficking.
  4. Describe the symptoms human trafficking victims and survivors may display.
  5. Discuss the duties of a mandated reporter.
  6. Explain the types of resources available to survivors of human trafficking.
  7. Identify persons at risk for becoming victims of human trafficking.
 
HR024TX - Texas Human Trafficking
Author: Chelsie Luhring

By taking this course, you will learn to identify human trafficking, understand the duties of mandatory reporters, and know to how to resource and support survivors.

Objectives

  1. Define human trafficking.
  2. Identify the types of human trafficking.
  3. Discuss the signs of human trafficking.
  4. Describe the symptoms human trafficking victims and survivors may display.
  5. Discuss the duties of a mandated reporter.
  6. Explain the types of resources available to survivors of human trafficking.
  7. Identify persons at risk for becoming victims of human trafficking.
 
HR025 - The Importance of Effective Communication in Health Care
Author: Chelsie Luhring

Health care workers in home care will learn the elements of effective communication, as well as techniques to implement within their workplace that will enhance their connections with colleagues and patients. Challenges to communication are addressed in this course as well as ways to best communicate with teammates and patients, and staff in other facilities or hospitals. Topics include considerations for personal preferences and identifiers, such as in persons with disabilities; cultural norms; inter- and intra-facility communication; and effective communication methods.

 

Objectives

At the end of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Explain effective communication.
  2. Describe a three-pronged approach to effective communication in health care.
  3. Define health literacy.
  4. Demonstrate person-first language in health care.
  5. Explain the role of cultural competence in effective communication.
  6. Implement methods for effective inter- and intra-facility communication.
 
HR026 - Implicit Bias in Health Care
Author: Chelsie Luhring

Spanish version: HR026S - Prejuicios Implícitos en la Asistencia Sanitaria

This course informs health care workers on how implicit biases are formed, their causes, and the harm they can create. Methods for recognizing and reducing implicit biases are provided.

Objectives

Upon completion, learners will be able to:

  1. Differentiate between the concepts of implicit bias and explicit bias.
  2. List two motivational factors that have been linked to eliminating implicit race bias.
  3. Describe how ingroup interactions operate in the animal kingdom.
  4. Differentiate between the concepts of System 1 and System 2 thinking.
  5. Define ability bias.
  6. Describe selective attention.
  7. Discuss how scanning the environment is a survival mechanism.
  8. Describe person-centered care.
  9. Identify methods to reduce implicit bias.
 
HR027 - Drug-Free Workplace Supervisor Training

Intended Audience:Location managers, billing managers, marketing/sales managers, regional managers, and other designated managers and supervisors. Use of the term supervisors will be used throughout this training as a generic term to include all in the intended audience.

 

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

  1. Identify ways to recognize evidence of employee alcohol and other drug abuse.
  2. Identify how to document employee alcohol and other drug abuse problems.
  3. Identify how to conduct appropriate investigations related to substance abuse.
  4. Identify how to validate and confront employees with substance abuse problems.
  5. Identify ways to effectuate the basic requirements for drug testing.

Continuing education: There are no CEUs for this course. 

 
 

Infection Control

INF001 - Sharps Injury Prevention
Author: Deb Martin, RN, BSN

This course provides an overview of health care workers’ roles in preventing needlesticks and other sharp object injuries, and what to do if such an event occurs. The lesson also illustrates how to implement a sharps injury prevention program.

Objectives

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

  1. Define bloodborne pathogen.
  2. Identify high-risk sharps devices linked to exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
  3. Describe how to properly dispose of contaminated sharps in sharps containers.
  4. Recognize the components of the federal Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act.
  5. Identify ways to implement compliance of sharps injury prevention within a health care setting.
  6. Explain an employer’s responsibilities following an employee’s exposure to a bloodborne pathogen.

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
INF002 - Standard Precautions and Infection Control
Author: Jessica Barker, BSN, RN

Spanish version: INF002S - Estándar de Precauciones y Control de Infecciones 

This course provides health care providers with an overview of infection control measures including standard precautions, transmission-based (isolation) precautions, handwashing, personal protective equipment, sterilization, and disinfection.

Learning objectives: 1.  Describe basic infection control measures, including the importance of handwashing; 2. Discuss clean (uncontaminated) versus dirty (contaminated) equipment and supplies and how to handle each; 3. Explain the difference between standard precautions and transmission-based precautions and when to use each; 4.  Review  how and when to use personal protective equipment (PPE).   To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
INF003 - Health Care Workers and Bloodborne Pathogens
Author: Scott Sergeant

Spanish version: INF003S - Los Trabajadores del Cuidado de la Salud y los Patógenos Transmitidos por la Sangre

Health care workers run the risk for occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens, including hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS. This course provides information about how health care workers can minimize the risk of occupational exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Learning objectives: 1. Define bloodborne pathogen; 2. Explain how infection from a bloodborne pathogen can occur within a health care setting; 3. Explain who is covered by OSHA’s bloodborne pathogen standard; 4. List what OSHA requires to be included in a company’s Exposure Control Plan; 5. List and explain each of the requirements outlined in OSHA’s bloodborne pathogen standard; 6. Explain what an employer is required to do if an employee declines to receive the hepatitis B vaccination; 7. Explain an employer’s responsibilities following an employee’s exposure to a bloodborne pathogen. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
INF004 - Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene
Author: OSHA

This course addresses the importance of applying industrial hygiene principles, developed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), to make the workplace a safe environment for all employees. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the history of industrial hygiene; 2. Explain OSHA's role in developing its occupational safety and health requirements; 3. Explain how to identify and control various work environment hazards. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
INF005 - Needlestick Prevention

This course explains the risks of needlestick injuries, how to prevent them, what to do if a needlestick injury happens, and both the employee's and employer's responsibilities concerning needlestick prevention and injury. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the risks of bloodborne pathogens and needlestick injuries. 2. Explain reasons why an employee may choose to not report a needlestick or sharps injury. 3. Identify employer responsibilities for preventing or minimizing needlestick or sharps injuries. 4. Explain employee responsibilities in preventing needlestick or sharps injuries and what to do if an incident occurs. Continuing education: Continuing education: This course does not offer any CEUs.

 
INF006 - TB Training for Health Care Providers
Author: OSHA

Spanish version: INF006S - Entrenamiento Sobre la Tuberculosis para los Proveedores del Cuidado de la Salud

This course provides information about tuberculosis (TB) that all health care providers should be aware of. You should complete the course "DMGT018 - Overview of Tuberculosis" before completing this course. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the cause of TB and how it is spread; 2. Develop a TB Exposure Control Plan for your facility; 3. Identify and implement the OSHA requirements and CDC guidelines that must be included in a TB Exposure Control Plan; 4. Explain the protocol for identifying individuals with active TB disease; 5. Explain OSHA's employee TB training and education requirements; 6. Explain OSHA's directive for the transfer and isolation of TB patients; 7. Identify the warning signs and tags that are required to indicate the hazards of TB; 8. Implement a Respiratory Protection program if your facility is required by OSHA to do so; 9. Identify and implement housekeeping and recordkeeping programs in accordance with OSHA requirements. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
INF007 - Sharps Safety and Pharmaceutical Waste
Author: Deb Martin, RN, BSN

This course contains two articles: one comparing active and passive technologies in sharps safety, and the other describing the role of an infection control practitioner (ICP) in managing pharmaceutical waste. Learning objectives: 1. Discuss state and federal attention and enforcement activity involving pharmaceutical waste; 2. Describe the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act as it applies to pharmaceutical waste; 3. Identify tools for determining which waste pharmaceuticals meet the federal criteria of a hazardous waste; 4. Describe two distinct features of a truly passive sharps safety device; 5. Identify the value of having frontline staff on a sharps safety evaluation committee. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
INF009 - Equipment Sterilization and Phlebotomy Issues
Author: Nyla "Skee" Japp

This course contains two articles: one that addresses equipment sterilization procedures, and the other that discusses trends and issues in phlebotomy practice. Learning objectives: 1. List different sterilization methods; 2. Explain classes of chemical indicators; 3. Describe the differences between aseptic sterilization and terminal sterilization; 4. List the procedures and training health care facilities need to do to improve to prevent accidental needlestick injuries. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
INF012 - Cleaning and Disinfecting HME Equipment
Author: Jim Belson

This course provides a guide for cleaning and disinfecting many home medical products as well as the principles behind a variety of cleaning and disinfection procedures. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the cleaning and disinfection processes for HME equipment; 2. Explain the differences between sterilizers, disinfectants and sanitizers; 3. Explain the distinctions between the risk of transmitting infections and the different methods of cleaning non-critical, semi-critical and critical items according to the Spaulding Classification system; 4. Explain the requirements for an equipment cleaning room; 5. Identify the reasons for wearing different types of personal protective equipment; 6. Explain the importance of material safety data sheets (SDS).To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
 

Leadership

LEAD003 - Crucial Conversations

Navigating through crucial conversations can be difficult and nerve-racking for both new and experienced leaders. When you lead a team of people, you’ll undoubtedly run into situations you need to address, and it is your responsibility as a leader to have crucial conversations with your staff to ensure both the individual and the team are moving in the right direction. This course will help you learn the secrets of turning difficult conversations into successful interactions.

There are no CEUs for this course. This course is available individually for $49 or as part of our 12 module Leadership Mastery Program for $249 for non-members or $199 for members.

 
LEAD004- Employee Engagement

Maintaining a positive, dependable workforce requires dedication from both leaders and team members. Active engagement is key. This course gives leaders the chance to look at who among their team best represents the company and how to increase that commitment across the office, as well as what opportunities and tactics can encourage employees to buy in to a business’s future.

There are no CEUs for this course. This course is available individually for $49 or as part of our 12-course Leadership Mastery Program for $249 as a non-member or $199 as a member.

 
LEAD007 - Emotional Intelligence 101

Emotional intelligence is a skill that will allow you to be your best in any collaborative environment. Whether it’s in a workplace, a community group, or family, when we are observant of our feelings and the feelings of others, we can choose to react in ways that are beneficial to everyone involved, resulting in higher productivity, understanding, and mutual trust. This course in an introduction to emotional intelligence.

There are no CEUs for this course. This course is available individually for $49 or as part of our 12-module Leadership Mastery Program.

 
LEAD008 - Mixing and Matching Working Styles

A common phrase in the workplace is that employees leave their manager, rather than the company. Therefore, a critical area of focus should be placed on how managers and their direct reports interact. If the manager can create an environment of good communication leading to trust, it stands to reason that employees will be more satisfied and stay with their employer longer. Learning basic elements of adapting and connecting with others will provide a solid foundation for interpersonal skills and improve all aspects of the manager/leader/employee dynamic.

There are no CEUs for this course. This course is available individually for $49 or as part of our 12-module Leadership Mastery Program for $249 as a non-member or $199 as a member.

 
LEAD011 - Using Financial Statements as a Management Tool
Author: Cindy Diehl Yang

Understanding financial statements provides insight into the financial health of a business, and guides leaders to make better decisions using that information. This course is geared toward new managers and leaders, providing the basics of reading and comprehending financial statements. Experienced managers will also benefit for review purposes.

Objectives

After completing this course, you will be able to:

  1. Identify the three basic financial statements and their major components.
  2. Explain how financial statements work.
  3. Interpret information found on statements.
  4. Define associated financial vocabulary.

There are no CEUs for this course. This course is available individually for $49 or as part of our 12-module Leadership Mastery Program for $249 as a non-member or $199 as a member.

 

 
 

Operations

OPS001 - Basic Cryogenics
Author: Norco

One function of many home medical equipment businesses is to provide cryogenic services. This course explains what cryogenics is, many of the common gases provided by an HME business, safety issues and the basic cryogenic vessels used for storage and transport. Learning objectives: 1. Define cryogenics and state the three most common gases used in cryogenics; 2. State the safety issues surrounding cryogenics; 3. State the parts of a basic cryogenic vessel and explain how heat can transfer through a vessel; 4. Explain the functions of the various circuitries present in a cryogenic vessel. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS002a - CGMP: Qualifications, Equipment, and Filling Components

This course is a 2-part series of modules introducing you to Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP), a set of regulations enforced by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that apply to the manufacturing, filling, transfilling, cascading, etc. of medical gases. This course covers the qualifications of employees and facilities, plus the proper calibration of equipment based on CGMP and looks at what takes place during the pre-fill inspection of various containers. The filling of these containers is also discussed where certain precautions and tests are conducted. Once filling is completed, retesting takes place under certain circumstances. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS002b - CGMP: Controls, Testing, and Records

Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP) are a set of regulations enforced by the FDA that apply to the manufacturing, filling, transfilling, cascading, etc., of medical gases (both compressed and cryogenic).

In this course we will review the controls, testing, and records that must be adhered to in order to meet CGMP guidelines. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS003 - DOT Drivers Training
Author: Norco

This course on driver's training addresses the qualifications needed to drive a commercial motor vehicle and pre-trip inspections to ensure your trip is safe and legal. It then provides details on the important points of securing cargo in a commercial motor vehicle, rules and regulations while driving, and how to handle a traffic accident. It then covers making deliveries and tracking your on-duty hours, and concludes with a discussion on completing a post-trip inspection. 

Learning objectives:

1. State the qualifications one must have before working as a driver

2. Outline the steps that need to be made during a pre-trip inspection

3. State the purpose of placards and ID numbers, relating to contents transported on commercial motor vehicles.

4. State the rules and regulations regarding the loading and securement of product in all commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) operated by you, the driver

5. State the policies regarding drugs and alcohol as applied to your employment;

6. Describe procedures that need to be followed when involved in an accident while on duty. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

7. State the policies regarding making deliveries to customers and picking up cylinders from their premises

8. Recognize areas that hinder your delivery and pose a safety hazard

9. State the rules regarding on-duty time and maintaining a log book. 

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS004 - Medical Van
Author: Norco

This course introduces you to the medical van (Med Van). A med van is used to deliver cryogenic liquids to customers. You should complete the course "OPS001 - Basic Cryogenics" before completing this course. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the main function of a Med Van; 2. Explain the safety issues related to working with cryogenic liquids being transported in a Med Van; 3. Identify parts of a basic cryogenic tank in a Med Van. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS005 - Warehouse Management for the HME Supplier
Author: Robert Thornburg

Spanish version: OPS005S - Gestión de Almacenes para Proveedores de HME

 

This course addresses the issues surrounding a home medical equipment's warehouse. Of primary concern is the proper management of cleanliness, temperature and humidity, pests, security, inventory, equipment processing and employee safety. Learning objectives: 1. Implement cost effective, current warehouse management policies within your HME organization; 2. Teach other staff members the importance of following these policies to ensure compliance. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS006 - CMV Driver Basics
Author: Norco

The job of a professional commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver comes with many responsibilities. This course provides you with some basic information with which you should become familiar. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the regulatory requirements that must be met in order to be qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV); 2. Explain the importance of developing healthy habits and how they can have a positive influence on your ability to operate a CMV; 3. Explain the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations that pertain to the type of CMV you operate; 4. Describe how "whistleblower" laws protect you from retaliation if you report CMV safety violations. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
OPS008 - Paperless Office: Document Imaging and Storage
Author: Esther Apter

This course addresses the concept of document imaging and storage as a method for reducing the overall cost of handling paper in an HME operation. Learning objectives: 1. Define document imaging; 2. Describe the benefits that document imaging can provide an HME organization; 3. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing a document imaging system from different types of software vendors; 4. Explain the various costs associated with a typical document imaging system; 5. Explain Medicare's regulation regarding accepting electronic files and documents. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS009 - Creating Efficiency
Author: Louis Feuer

It's a fact of life: more and more businesses - including those in the home medical equipment industry - are having to do more with less. Changes in reimbursement and the economy require us to take a more microscopic look at every aspect of our business. This course provides strategies to help you create efficiencies within your company, efficiencies that will prepare you for increased financial limitations. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS010 - How HME Works
Author: Belson/Hanwright

This course discusses the use of home medical equipment (HME), the financial aspects of HME products and services and the regulatory agencies that govern the HME industry. Learning objectives: 1. Define home medical equipment (HME); 2. Explain who uses home medical equipment; 3. Identify HME payer sources and explain the billing process; 4. Explain the intake process; 5. Explain the discharge process; 6. Identify state and federal regulators of the HME industry. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS011 - Basic Manual Wheelchair Repair
Author: Jerry Keiderling

Wheelchairs are like automobiles, bicycles or any other mobility equipment: they have changed drastically over the past several years. This course is an introduction to manual wheelchair components and basic service. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the major components of a manual wheelchair; 2. Describe the differences between a rigid and folding wheelchair; 3. Describe the inspection procedures for a manual wheelchair; 4. Describe the routine maintenance tasks associated with manual wheelchairs; 5. Inspect and record discrepancies on manual wheelchairs. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS012 - Delivering the Product to the Patient
Author: Scott Sergeant

Spanish version: OPS012S - Entregándole Productos al Paciente

 

This course explains the tasks that should be - and in some situations are required to be - completed by HME delivery techs in a patient's home. Learning objectives: 1. Perform the steps you should take to prepare for an equipment setup visit to a patient's home; 2. Explain the tasks that a delivery tech should and must perform during the setup of any HME equipment or supplies; 3. Explain the importance of using Universal Precautions of infection control while delivering products to a patient's home; 4. Identify the instructions that should and must be provided to the patient and/or caregiver at the time equipment or supplies are delivered to the patient's home; 5. Identify the documents that a patient/caregiver must sign to verify delivery and functionality of the equipment or supplies; 6. Perform activities that can be used to effectively coach a new delivery tech on how to perform the tasks required when in the patient's home. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS013a - Beginner's Guide to Home Care Products - Part 1
Author: Mary Avenanti

This course covers basic home care equipment as a guide to the new HME employee. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the types of home care equipment; 2. Describe the options and features available on home care equipment to better help the home care equipment user; 3. Explain the differences between different types of mobility aids. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS013b - Beginner's Guide to Home Care Products - Part 2
Author: Mary Avenanti

This course covers basic home care equipment as a guide to the new HME employee. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the types of home care equipment; 2. Describe the options and features available on home care equipment to better help the home care equipment user; 3. Explain the options that are available to oxygen users. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OPS015 - Defensive Driving

The main purpose of this training is to learn defensive driving techniques so that you can be safe behind the wheel and avoid accidents. 

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, you will be able to: 

  1. Identify driving hazards. 
  2. List defensive driving techniques. 
  3. Describe ways you can use defensive driving techniques to prevent accidents and injuries on the road. 
 
OPS016- US DOT Handling Compressed Oxygen Driver's Training
Author: Dan Carlson

Description

This course is about the United States Department of Transportation’s (DOT) driver’s training as it pertains to the handling and transport of compressed oxygen cylinders in the support of patient care. The first chapter will address the safe handling, transport, and storage of compressed oxygen cylinders. The second chapter will cover the specific rules regarding U.S. DOT laws, such as the Materials of Trade (MOT) exceptions, and the regulations on the transport of compressed oxygen cylinders -- specifically when you are carrying a gross cylinder weight on a vehicle that is less than 1,000 pounds, but greater than 400 pounds. 

Objectives

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

  1. Identify the safe methods for handling, transporting, and storing compressed oxygen cylinders.
  2. Describe the appropriate labeling of compressed oxygen cylinders.
  3. Explain the Materials of Trade exceptions as defined by the DOT and to whom they apply.
  4. Identify the appropriate regulatory standards that apply to the transport of compressed medical gas cylinders when you carry more than 440 pounds of gross cylinder weight, but less than 1,000 pounds.
 
 

Ostomy & Wound Care

OWC001a - Overview of Ostomies - Part 1
Author: ConvaTec

This is the first of a two-part series of courses that introduces you to ostomies and the basics of ostomy care and management. This first course will explain what an ostomy is, types of ostomies, and detail the ostomy that most people think about when they hear the word "ostomy:" colostomy. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the role of the human gastrointestinal and urinary systems; 2. Define ostomy; 3. Define stoma; 4. Explain the reasons why a colostomy is performed; 5. Identify the types of colostomies. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OWC001b - Overview of Ostomies - Part 2
Author: ConvaTec

This is the second of a two-part series of courses that introduce you to ostomies and the basics of ostomy care and management. This course will explain ileostomies and urostomies, and discuss common problems and issues associated with ostomies. Learning objectives: 1. Explain why an ileostomy would be performed; 2. Identify the types of ileostomies that can be performed; 3. Explain why a urostomy would be performed; 4. Identify the types of urostomies that can be performed; 5. Describe the basic ostomy management and care procedures; 6.Explain additional concerns of an ostomy patient. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
OWC002 - Wound Care: Selecting Skin Cleansing Products
Author: Denise Nix

The number of commercially marketed skin cleansing agents continues to grow, providing clinicians with an increasingly large variety of products from which to choose. This course reviews common types of skin cleansers, their formulation, ingredients, skin compatibility, pH, and related infection control issues. Learning objectives: 1. Explain how the skin acts as a barrier for the human body; 2. Explain the difference between "soap" and "detergent;" 3. Identify four key ingredients of effective skin cleansers. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OWC003 - Prevention and Early Intervention of Wounds
Author: Joan Junkin

This course focuses on wound healing and local aspects of wound care. Learning objectives: 1. List six causes of failure to thrive in wounds; 2. Identify the expected timeline for the three phases of wound healing; 3. Describe the mechanism of action of three wound products that assist in protecting the wound from bacterial overburden; 4. Compare efficacy of the different methods of culturing wounds; 5. List the advantages and disadvantages of the four debridement methods. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OWC004 - Skin Management: Prevention and Wound Care
Author: Mindy Owen

This course provides information that can be used to establish assessment tools and care plans for patients who are at high risk for skin breakdown.  This course was written by Mindy Owen, RN, CRRN, CCM, from information provided by MEDIQfst. Learning objectives: 1. Identify populations at high risk for skin breakdown; 2. Identify the factors that lead to skin breakdown; 3. Identify strategies to prevent skin breakdown and to promote skin healing; 4. Explain the stages of wounds and the treatments available for each stage; 5. Explain interventions for wound dressing techniques; 6. Explain the toxic effects of antiseptic agents on fibroblasts and other human cells and tissues; 7.Explain the advances in wound care technology. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OWC006a - Overview of Pressure Ulcer Etiology - Part 1
Author: W. Darren Hammond

This is the first of a 3-part series of courses on pressure ulcers. Although ultimately discussion will focus on pressure ulcers, this first part provides foundational knowledge regarding the skin, normal physiology of healing, and factors affecting healing and repair. You should complete this series of courses in order: Part 1, followed by Part 2, followed by Part 3. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the distinct layers of the skin; 2. Explain the normal physiology of healing; 3. Identify the reasons why individuals have difficulty healing chronic wounds; 4. Explain the incidence and prevalence of pressure ulcers. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OWC006b - Overview of Pressure Ulcer Etiology - Part 2
Author: W. Darren Hammond

This is the second course of a 3-part series about pressure ulcers. This course will review the National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP) staging guidelines of pressure ulcers and the risk factors for developing a pressure ulcer. You should complete Part 1 of this series before starting this course, and you should complete this course before starting Part 3. Learning objectives: 1. Identify risk factors of developing pressure ulcers; 2. Demonstrate pressure ulcer staging. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
OWC006c - Overview of Pressure Ulcer Etiology - Part 3
Author: W. Darren Hammond

This is the third of a 3-part series about pressure ulcers. This course will review the basic strategies in the management of pressure ulcers. You should complete Parts 1 and 2 of this series before starting this course. Learning objectives: 1. List at least 3 organizations that are resources for anyone responsible for managing chronic pressure ulcers in patients; 2. Name two tools that can be used to identify patients who are at risk for developing a pressure ulcer; 3. Explain at least 5 procedures you can use to manage chronic pressure ulcers. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
 

Product Education Center

PEC001 - Introduction to CPAP, autoCPAP and BiPAP
Author: Ron Hosp, MS, RRT

Description

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to standard therapy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), auto-adjusting CPAP, and bilevel PAP (BiPAP). Because of the multitude of brands of PAP devices and accessories on the market, this course covers the devices in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of CPAP, auto-adjusting CPAP, or BiPAP, please consult the device manufacturers.

Objectives

After completing this course, you will be able to:

  1. Explain the symptoms of and risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
  2. Discuss the risks of having sleep apnea.
  3. Compare the differences between continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), automatic continuous positive airway pressure (APAP), and bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) devices.
  4. Describe the role of the physician in obtaining positive airway pressure (PAP) devices
  5. Identify the end goals of PAP therapy.
  6. Explain how patients can safely use PAP devices.
 
PEC002 - Introduction to Manual Wheelchairs
Author: Scott Sergeant

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to the standard manual wheelchair. Because of the multitude of brands of manual wheelchairs and accessories on the market, this course will cover manual wheelchairs in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of manual wheelchair, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes links to several manual wheelchair manufacturers. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the two basic models of manual wheelchairs; 2. Identify the components and various accessories of a standard manual wheelchair; 3. Explain who would use a manual wheelchair; 4. Perform basic manual wheelchair maintenance procedures; 5. Explain how a manual wheelchair can be used safely. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC003 - Introduction to Oxygen Concentrators
Author: Scott Sergeant

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to oxygen concentrators. Because of the multitude of brands of oxygen concentrators and accessories on the market, this course will cover oxygen concentrators in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of oxygen concentrator, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes links to several oxygen concentrator manufacturers. You should complete the course RESP008 - Home Oxygen Therapy before completing this course. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the basic models of oxygen concentrator; 2. Identify the components and various accessories of an oxygen concentrator; 3. Explain who would use an oxygen concentrator; 4. Perform basic oxygen concentrator maintenance procedures; 5. Explain how an oxygen concentrator can be used safely. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC004 - Introduction to Liquid Oxygen Systems
Author: Scott Sergeant

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to liquid oxygen systems used for home oxygen therapy. Because of the variety of liquid oxygen systems and accessories on the market, this course will cover liquid oxygen systems in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of system, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes links to several manufacturers of liquid oxygen systems and accessories. You should complete the course "RESP008 - Home Oxygen Therapy" before completing this course. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the components and various accessories of a liquid oxygen system; 2. Explain who would use a liquid oxygen system; 3. Identify the safety precautions a patient should adhere to when using a liquid oxygen system. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC005 - Introduction to Oxygen Cylinders
Author: Scott Sergeant

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to compressed oxygen cylinders used for home oxygen therapy. Because of the multitude of brands of compressed gas cylinders and accessories on the market, this course will cover cylinders in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of cylinder, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes links to several manufacturers of oxygen cylinders and accessories. You should complete the course "Home Oxygen Therapy" before completing this course. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the components and various accessories of an oxygen tank; 2. Explain who would use an oxygen tank; 3. Identify the safety precautions an oxygen patient should adhere to when using an oxygen tank. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC006 - Introduction to TENS
Author: Ray Paclebar

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to TENS units. Because of the multitude of TENS units and accessories on the market, this course will cover TENS units in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of TENS unit, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes links to several TENS unit manufacturers.

Learning objectives:

  1. Identify the basic models of TENS units.
  2. Identify the components and various accessories of a TENS unit.
  3. Explain who would use a TENS unit.
  4. Perform basic TENS unit maintenance procedures.
  5. Explain how a TENS unit can be used safely.

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
PEC007 - Introduction to Low Air Loss Mattresses
Author: Scott Sergeant

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to low air loss mattresses. Because of the multitude of low air loss mattresses and accessories on the market, this course will cover low air loss mattresses in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of low air loss mattress, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes links to several low air loss mattress manufacturers. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the basic models of low air loss mattresses; 2. Identify the components and various accessories of a low air loss mattress; 3. Explain who would use a low air loss mattress; 4. Perform basic low air loss mattress maintenance procedures; 5. Explain how a low air loss mattress can be used safely. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC008 - Introduction to Phototherapy Units
Author: Scott Sergeant

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to phototherapy units. Because of the multitude of phototherapy units and accessories on the market, this course will cover phototherapy units in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of phototherapy unit, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes links to several phototherapy unit manufacturers. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the basic models of phototherapy units; 2. Identify the components and various accessories of a phototherapy unit; 3. Explain who would use a phototherapy unit; 4. Perform basic phototherapy unit maintenance procedures; 5. Explain how a phototherapy unit can be used safely. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC009 - Introduction to Bone Growth Stimulators
Author: Scott Sergeant

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to non-invasive bone growth stimulators. This course will cover bone growth stimulators in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of bone growth stimulator, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes links to bone growth stimulator manufacturers. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the basic models of bone growth stimulators; 2. Identify the components of a bone growth stimulator; 3. Explain who would use a bone growth stimulator; 4. Explain how a bone growth stimulator can be used safely. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC010 - Introduction to Enteral Nutrition Pumps
Author: Stephanie Hookham

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to enteral nutrition pumps. Because of the multitude of enteral nutrition pumps and accessories on the market, this course will cover enteral nutrition pumps in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of enteral nutrition pump, please consult the manufacturers.  Learning objectives: 1. Identify the basic models of enteral nutrition pumps; 2. Identify the components and various accessories of an enteral nutrition pump; 3. Explain who would use an enteral nutrition pump; 4. Perform basic enteral nutrition pump maintenance procedures; 5. Explain how an enteral nutrition pump can be used safely. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC011 - Introduction to Apnea Monitors
Author: Scott Sergeant

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to apnea monitors. Because of the multitude of apnea monitors and accessories on the market, this course will cover apnea monitors in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of apnea monitor, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes links to apnea monitor manufacturers. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the components and various accessories of an apnea monitor; 2. Explain who would use an apnea monitor; 3. Perform basic apnea monitor maintenance procedures; 4. Explain how an apnea monitor can be used safely. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC012 - Introduction to Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) Units
Author: Tom Blaney

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to continuous passive motion (CPM) units. Because of the multitude of CPM units and accessories on the market, this course will cover CPM units in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of CPM unit, please consult the manufacturer.

Objectives

After completing this course, you will be able to:

  1.  Identify the overall goal of CPM therapy.
  2. Explain the correlation between CPM usage and recovery time after injury or surgery.
  3. Identify who would use a CPM unit.
  4. Identify which body parts may benefit from the use of a CPM. 
  5. Identify typical CPM prescription protocols for a variety of surgeries that would necessitate a CPM.
 
PEC013 - Introduction to Nebulizer Systems
Author: Boone Lockard, CRT

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to aerosol nebulizer systems. Because of the multitude of brands of nebulizers and other system components on the market, this course will cover the devices in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of nebulizers and system components, please consult the manufacturers.

Objectives

After completing this course, you will be able to:

  1. Define airway obstruction.
  2. Explain what aerosol nebulizer systems are and who would use them.
  3. Explain how a nebulizer system is used.
  4. Identify the physical factors in aerosol deposition.
 
PEC014 - Introduction to Ostomy Care
Author: Scott Sergeant

This course will provide you information about products that help individuals manage their ostomies following ostomy surgery. Because of the multitude of brands of ostomy products on the market, this course will cover ostomy products in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of ostomy products, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes links to ostomy product manufacturers. You should complete the courses "OWC001a - Overview of Ostomies - Part 1" and "OWC001b - Overview of Ostomies - Part 2" before taking this course. Learning objectives: 1. Identify products designed to manage each type of ostomy; 2. Explain who would use an ostomy product; 3. Explain how certain foods and medication can affect the ostomy patient; 4. Provide tips and suggestions on how ostomy patients can safely manage and care for their ostomy. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC015 - Introduction to Breast Pumps
Author: Scott Sergeant

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to breast pumps. Because of the number of breast pumps and accessories on the market, this course will cover breast pumps in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of breast pump, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes links to VGM Participating breast pump manufacturers. Learning objectives: 1. Explain how a woman's breast manufactures milk; 2. Define "let-down" reflex and explain the process; 3. Explain the purpose of a breast pump and how it is used; 4. Identify the three basic types of breast pumps; 5. Explain how to determine the most appropriate breast pump for a nursing mother; 6. Provide suggestions on how a new nursing mother can overcome her anxiety about using a breast pump for the first time; 7. Explain the conditions under which breast milk should be stored; 8. Explain how a nursing mother can maintain her milk supply; 9. Explain how a breast pump should be used safely. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC016 - Introduction to Spirometry
Author: Scott Sergeant

This course introduces you to spirometry. This measurement can help the clinician determine whether an individual has a disease in the lungs, and help determine whether the disease is obstructive or restrictive. Because of the variety of spirometry systems and accessories on the market, this course will cover spirometry systems in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of system, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes a link to VGM Participating vendors of spirometry systems and accessories, and of peak flow meters. You should complete the following courses before beginning this course: "DMGT016 - Overview of Cystic Fibrosis," DMGT018 - Overview of Tuberculosis," "RESP009 - Asthma Management: Interventions and Strategies," and "RESP010 - Intervention and Strategies of the COPD Population." Learning objectives: 1. Explain what spirometry systems are and who would use them; 2. Explain what a peak flow meter is and who would use one; 3. Explain how a spirometry system is used; 4. Explain how a peak flow meter is used; 5. Identify the parts that make up a basic spirometry system and the various accessories that can be used with a basic device. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC017 - Introduction to Power Mobility Devices
Author: Elizabeth Cole, MSPT

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to power mobility devices (power wheelchairs and scooters). Because of the multitude of brands of power mobility devices and accessories on the market, this course will cover power mobility devices in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of power mobility device, please consult the vendors. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the basic criteria for medical necessity for a power mobility device in general and a scooter or power wheelchair specifically; 2. Identify the basic features of a Group 1, Group 2, Group 3, Group 4, and Group 5 power wheelchair and how they differ from one another; 3. Identify at least four basic criteria that an individual should meet to be appropriate for each of the different types of power wheelchairs listed in objective #2; 4. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages among the three different types of drive wheel positions. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
PEC018 - Introduction to Ambulatory Aids
Author: Jim Belson

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to standard ambulatory aids (canes, crutches and walkers). Because of the multitude of brands of ambulatory aids and accessories on the market, this course will cover ambulatory aids in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of ambulatory aid, please consult the vendors. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the purpose and clinical indications of ambulatory aids; 2. Describe briefly how each ambulatory aid works; 3. Demonstrate correct adjustment, use and placement of ambulatory aids; 4. Demonstrate cleaning procedures appropriate to the ambulatory aid. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC019 - Introduction to Suction Pumps
Author: Jim Belson

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to suction pumps. Because of the multitude of suction pumps and accessories on the market, this course will cover suction pumps in the broadest generic terms. For specific information related to a particular brand of suction pumps, please consult the manufacturers. This course also includes links to several suction pump manufacturers. Learning objectives: 1. Identify three types of suctioning and their purposes; 2. Identify types of suction pumps, accessories, and uses; 3. Identify appropriate suctioning levels per user and perform tests to check suctioning level; 4. Perform proper suctioning techniques; 5. Troubleshoot common problems with suction pumps; 6. Perform proper cleaning of pump and parts. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
PEC020 - Introduction to Lymphedema Products
Author: Jill Blaser

This course introduces the new home medical equipment staff member to lymphedema products (pumps and compression garments). Because of the multitude of brands of lymphedema products, this course will cover the products in the broadest generic terms.  For specific information related to a particular brand of lymphedema products, please consult the vendors. Learning objectives: 1. Define lymphedema; 2. Describe what a lymphedema pump is and who would use it; 3. Explain the proper use a lymphedema pump; 4. Describe the four types of lymphedema pumps; 5. Explain how to use compression garments and bandaging; 6. Explain how to properly clean a lymphedema pump and garments. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
 

Safety

SAFE001 - Disaster Preparedness for the HME Supplier
Author: Kelsi Gerholdt

Spanish version: SAFE001S - Preparación Ante Emergencias Para Proveedores de HME

This course provides the information you need to develop a Disaster Preparedness Plan for your HME business. Learning objectives: 1. Create a cost effective, current disaster preparedness plan; 2. Instruct others within your organization on the importance of preparing for and reacting to disasters. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
SAFE002a - Forklift Safety Training - Part 1
Author: Trent Selesky

This course is the first of a 2-part series of courses designed to prepare you for your company's forklift hands-on driver training. This course covers basic safety and component information, center of gravity, and operating hazards. You should complete this course before completing Part 2. Learning objectives: 1. Explain OSHA's forklift training regulation; 2. Identify the basic components of a forklift and identify areas to inspect before operation; 3. Define "center of gravity," and identify at least 4 forces that can affect a load's center of gravity; 4. Identify at least three potential hazards that can occur when operating a forklift. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE002b - Forklift Safety Training - Part 2
Author: Trent Selesky

This course is the second of a 2-part series of courses designed to prepare you for your company's forklift hands-on driver training. This course focuses on forklift inspection and operation, load handling, and forklift refueling. You should complete Part 1 of this series before completing this course. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the areas of a forklift that you should inspect before beginning operation of the vehicle; 2. Explain the basic rules and regulations regarding forklift operation; 3. Describe the "science of loading," and how it relates to working with loads on your forklift; 4. Explain the precautions you should take when using special attachments on your forklift; 5. Demonstrate the proper procedures when refueling a forklift. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE003 - Hazard Communication
Author: Mary McGeough

Spanish version: SAFE003S - Comunicación de Riesgos

In order to ensure chemical safety in the workplace, information must be available to employers and employees about the identities and hazards of the chemicals they may be potentially exposed to. OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) provides information for employers and employees who may be exposed to hazardous chemicals while working under normal conditions. This online course outlines the OSHA guidelines and requirements for using Safety Data Sheets and the responsibilities for employee safety. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the parts of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard.  2. Define and identify hazardous material. 3. Identify ways to prevent or minimize workplace hazards.  4. Identify a safety data sheet and what it includes. 5. Identify what is included in an appropriate written hazard communication program.  6. Identify the changes implemented with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE004 - Prevention of Vehicle Accidents
Author: Norco

Spanish version: SAFE004S - Prevención de Accidentes de Tránsito

This course will cover the rules, regulations, and procedures associated with driving a commercial vehicle. Knowing these rules, regulations, and procedures will help you develop good driving habits and ultimately prevent vehicle accidents. Learning objectives: 1. List the rules and regulations that promote good driving habits; 2. Explain the procedure for crossing railroad tracks; 3. Identify and explain the meaning behind various road signs; 4. Explain policies regarding fire prevention in and around vehicles; 5. List the rules and procedures for reporting accidents. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE005a - Personal Protective Equipment - Part 1
Author: OSHA

This is the first of a 3-part series of courses about personal protective equipment (PPE). This course defines PPE, explains both your and your employer's responsibilities in providing and using PPE, and explains why eye and face protection is important. You should complete this course before completing Parts 2 and 3. Learning objectives: 1. State the responsibilities you and your employer have in regard to personal protective equipment; 2. Identify the different pieces of personal protective equipment and describe when and how they should be used. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE005b - Personal Protective Equipment - Part 2
Author: OSHA

This is the second of a 3-part series of courses about personal protective equipment (PPE). This course explains the importance of respiratory and head protection. You should complete this course after completing Part 1 and before completing Part 3. Learning objectives: 1. State the responsibilities you and your employer have in regard to personal protective equipment; 2. Identify the different pieces of personal protective equipment and describe when and how they should be used. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE005c - Personal Protective Equipment - Part 3
Author: OSHA

This is the third of a 3-part series of courses about personal protective equipment (PPE). This course explains the importance of protecting your hearing, hands and feet. You should complete this course after completing Parts 1 and 2. Learning objectives: 1. State the responsibilities you and your employer have in regard to personal protective equipment; 2. Identify the different pieces of personal protective equipment and describe when and how they should be used. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE006a - Safety in the Workplace - Part 1
Author: Norco

Spanish version: SAFE006aS - Seguridad en el Lugar de Trabajo - Parte 1

This is the first in a 2-part series of courses that discusses a wide range of issues related to workplace safety. In this first part of the series, we'll address the areas of responsibility for enforcing safety rules within your company; how to identify, analyze and control hazards within your facility; the types of inspections you should be conducting in your workplace; and the type of safety training your company should be offering to your employees. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the scope of safety responsibilities among employees, managers and owners within a company; 2. State how to recognize safety hazards, analyze them and control them; 3. Define the different types of inspections that may occur in your company. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE006b - Safety in the Workplace - Part 2
Author: Norco

Spanish version: Seguridad en el Lugar de Trabajo - Parte 2

This is the second of a two-part series of courses that discusses a wide range of issues related to workplace safety. In this second part, we’ll address procedures to report and investigate accidents and other emergencies; basic safety rules and standards your company should consider adopting; how to handle hazard communication, bloodborne pathogens, safe electrical procedures, and process safety management. Learning objectives: 1. State the various safety policies regarding enforcement, reporting and investigating accidents and formation of a safety committee; 2. State the rules and standards surrounding the use of equipment, work environments and workplace procedures. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE007 - Toxicology and Exposure
Author: Norco

This course is a brief study of general toxicological principles to the extent that you may understand and guard against the toxic effects of the materials found in the workplace or job site. Learning objectives: 1. State and define specific terms related to toxicology and exposure; 2. Identify the properties of a material along with the elements and factors that influence toxicological exposure; 3. State how dosage, duration and route of entry play a role in toxicological exposure. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE008 - Overview of Ergonomics
Author: OSHA

Ergonomics is the practice of designing equipment and work tasks to conform to the capability of the worker. This course provides information about ergonomics that all health care providers should be aware of. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the potential hazards common to the health care industry that can result in ergonomic stressors; 2. Describe possible solutions to overcome those potential ergonomic hazards. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
SAFE009 - Back Safety
Author: OSHA

Home medical equipment employees are often subject to back injuries because of the type of lifting and carrying they do on a daily basis. This course discusses the potential causes of back injuries, and how to avoid them. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the prevalence of back disorders in the U.S; 2. Identify the causes of back injuries; 3. Explain the mechanics of safe lifting; 4. Identify alternative methods of lifting and carrying heavy objects; 5. Explain how you can maintain a healthy back. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE010 - Noise and Hearing Conservation
Author: OSHA

Noise, or unwanted sound, is one of the most common health problems in American workplaces. This course describes sound hazards and how to measure sound for proper safety levels. Learning objectives: 1. Define sound; 2. Explain the function of the ear; 3. Explain the affects of excessive exposure to noise; 4. Explain how ultrasonics can affect hearing; 5. Identify the requirements outlined in OSHA's Occupational Noise Exposure standard; 6. Explain how a sound level meter is used to screen for noise exposure; 7. Explain the purpose of audiometric testing; 8. Explain OSHA's basic requirement for hearing protection devices; 9.Explain the purpose of OSHA's hearing recordkeeping regulation. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE012a - Ergonomics: Computer Workstations - Part 1
Author: OSHA

This course is the first of a 3-part series that illustrates simple, inexpensive principles that will help you create a safe and comfortable computer workstation. Learning objectives: 1. Define neutral body positioning; 2. Identify the factors that should be considered to maintain neutral body postures while working at a computer workstation; 3. Explain how force can affect localized muscle groups; 4. Explain the potential hazards and possible solutions for prolonged periods of activity at a computer workstation; 5. Explain the potential hazards and possible solutions to overcome inadequate lighting and ventilation, and glare at a computer workstation. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE012b - Ergonomics: Computer Workstations - Part 2
Author: OSHA

This course is the second of a 3-part series that illustrates simple, inexpensive principles that will help you create a safe and comfortable computer workstation. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the potential hazards of using computer monitors, keyboards, and pointing devices; 2. Explain the possible solutions to eliminate those hazards. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE012c - Ergonomics: Computer Workstations - Part 3
Author: OSHA

This course is the third of a 3-part series that illustrates simple, inexpensive principles that will help you create a safe and comfortable computer workstation. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the potential hazards of using wrist and palm supports, document holders, desks, chairs and telephones; 2. Explain the possible solutions to eliminate those hazards. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE013a - Traveling with HME Devices
Author: Transportation Safety Administration

Since September 11, 2001 the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has developed guidelines with input from various disability-related groups and organizations. This course addresses TSA guidelines and provides you, the home medical equipment supplier, with information that you can in turn provide to your traveling customers. Learning objectives: 1. Explain to your customers with disabilities or other medical conditions what preparations they should make regarding their disability or medical condition in advance of their trip; 2. Explain to your mobility and hearing- or visually-impaired customers how they can efficiently negotiate the screening process at an airport's security checkpoint; 3. Explain to your customers who have hidden medical devices (pacemakers, defibrillator or other implanted devices, and metal implants) how they can efficiently negotiate the screen process at an airport's security checkpoint; 4. Explain to your diabetic customers how they can efficiently negotiate the screen process at an airport's security checkpoint with their equipment and supplies; 5. Explain to your customers how to get their medications through the screening process at an airport's security checkpoint; 6. Print, copy and distribute documents containing TSA guidelines contained in this course. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE013b - Traveling with Oxygen
Author: Various Sources

This course addresses those TSA guidelines and provides you, the home medical equipment supplier, with information that you can in turn provide to your supplemental oxygen customers. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the regulations your oxygen customers must adhere to when traveling via air with oxygen; 2. Explain the preparations your oxygen customers should make prior to traveling via air with oxygen; 3. Explain the preparations your oxygen customers should make prior to traveling on a cruise ship; 4. Explain the preparations your oxygen customers should make prior to traveling on Amtrak. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE014 - Medical Device Reporting
Author: The FDA

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) uses Medical Device Reporting (MDR) to receive information about adverse medical device events from manufacturers, importers and user facilities (including HME/DME suppliers), so that these events can be detected and corrected quickly. This course provides you with information you'll need to comply with MDR requirements. Learning objectives: 1. Define "medical device"; 2. Explain the reasoning behind Medical Device Reporting; 3.Explain how medical devices are categorized; 4. Explain how user facilities are required to report medical device adverse events to the FDA; 5. Explain the difference between "mandatory" and "voluntary" MDR; 6. Establish MDR written procedures, recordkeeping policies and files; 7. Establish procedures for complying with FDA medical device recall actions. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE015 - Preventing Workplace Violence
Author: Multiple sources

For many years, health care and social service workers have faced a significant risk of job-related violence. Assaults represent a serious safety and health hazard within these industries. OSHA's violence prevention guidelines provide the agency's recommendations for reducing workplace violence. Learning objectives: 1. Define workplace violence; 2. List the risk factors for workplace violence that health care workers face; 3. Explain the 5 elements of an effective workplace violence prevention program; 4. Describe at least 3 steps for conducting a worksite analysis; 5. Explain at least 2 methods that employers can use to prevent and control potential workplace hazards; 6. Develop a workplace violence prevention training program for all employees within your organization; 7. Identify the types of reports that should be kept and the evaluation processes that should be implemented in order maintain an effective workplace violence prevention program. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE016 - Fall Prevention for the Aging Population
Author: Various Sources

This course contains information about the prevalence and results of falls, and provides information that HME providers can share with their older clients to minimize the risk of falling.  Learning objectives: 1. Describe the prevalence of falls among older adults in the U.S; 2. Explain who is most susceptible to falls and resulting injuries; 3. Describe the mostly likely outcomes from a fall by an older adult; 4. List the most common risk factors that cause an older adult to fall; 5. Explain how falls among older adults can be reduced or prevented. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE017 - Developing an Emergency Action Plan
Author: OSHA

An emergency action plan (EAP) is a written document required by particular OSHA standards. The purpose of an EAP is to facilitate and organize employer and employee actions during workplace emergencies. If you are required to have an EAP, this course will guide you through the development of an EAP. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the purpose of an evacuation action plan (EAP); 2. Use OSHA's "Expert System" to determine if your company is required to have an EAP; 3. Conduct a workplace evaluation prior to developing an EAP; 4. Use at least two methods to develop an EAP for your company; 5. Identify at least five elements of evacuation that should be included in your company's EAP; 6. Identify procedures that should be taken into account if you incorporate a "shelter-in-place" within your EAP; 7. Identify OSHA's requirements for reporting emergencies. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. This course combines with the courses "SAFE018 - Developing a Fire Prevention Plan" and "SAFE019 - Fire Extinguisher Systems" to offer you a comprehensive emergency preparedness training program. 

 
SAFE018 - Developing a Fire Prevention Plan
Author: Kelsi Gerholdt

A fire prevention plan (FPP) is a written document required by particular OSHA standards. The purpose of an FPP is to outline the steps that a company takes to prevent a fire from occurring in the workplace. Learning objectives: 1. Identify the minimal information that must be included in a fire prevention plan (FPP); 2. Identify the three most common fire detection systems, and explain the environments in which each is best suited to be used; 3. Explain the purpose of an employee alarm system; 4.Identify the two most common types of employee alarm systems, and explain the environments in which each is best suited to be used. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. This course combines with the courses "SAFE017 - Developing an Emergency Action Plan" and "SAFE019 - Fire Extinguisher Systems" to offer you a comprehensive emergency preparedness training program. 

 
SAFE019 - Fire Extinguisher Systems
Author: OSHA

Spanish version: SAFE019S - Sistemas Extinguidores de Incendios

Workplace fires and explosions kill hundreds and injure thousands of workers each year. This course discusses the use of portable fire extinguishers and fixed fire extinguishing systems in the workplace.

Learning objectives:

  1. Identify the most common type of emergency that small businesses must plan for.
  2. Identify the three elements that must be present for a fire to exist.
  3. Identify the three most common types of portable fire extinguishers and the type of fire on which each should be used.
  4. Identify the classification codes on various fire extinguishers.

 

To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. This course combines with the courses "SAFE017 - Developing an Emergency Action Plan" and "SAFE018 - Developing a Fire Prevention Plan" to offer you a comprehensive emergency preparedness training program. 

 
SAFE020 - Basic First Aid
Author: CDC

This course is designed to provide you with awareness of basic first aid principles and the importance of first aid training courses. This information is only a guide. It is not a substitute for training or professional medical assistance. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the principles of first aid; 2. Explain the goals of first aid; 3. Define the DRABC action plan; 4. Demonstrate the basic first aid procedures for at least 6 types of injuries; 5. Identify the items that should be included in a first aid kit. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE021 - Basic Home Safety
Author: Various Authors

This course examines the types of hazards that can exist within a home, and what a person can do to protect those living within that home. This course also takes a look at how older adults, especially those with Alzheimer's disease and other dementia, can be protected within their home. Learning objectives: 1. Explain the difference between an unsafe act and an unsafe condition; 2. List the top 5 hidden home hazards as identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission; 3. List the three leading causes of home injury death for persons 65 and older in the United States; 4. Explain at least 4 steps you can take in order to provide a safe place for a person with dementia to live; 5. Explain at least 5 things you can do in order to make sure a home supports the changing needs of a person with dementia. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE022 - OSHA Overview
Author: OSHA

Spanish version: SAFE022S - Resumen de la OSHA

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is an agency of the United States Department of Labor. OSHA’s mission is to assure America’s workers have safe and healthful working conditions free from unlawful retaliation. OSHA carries out its mission by setting and enforcing standards; enforcing anti-retaliation provisions of the OSH Act and other federal whistleblower laws; providing and supporting training, outreach, education, and assistance; and ensuring state OSHA programs are at least as effective as federal OSHA, furthering a national system of worker safety and health protections.  This course provides an introductory overview of OSHA.  Learning objectives: 1. Explain the extent of OSHA's statutory authority; 2. Explain the mission of OSHA; 3. Identify the location and contact information of the federal regional office for the state in which your business is located; 4. Explain OSHA’s responsibilities to and resources for small businesses. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE023- Overview of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Author: OSHA

Spanish version:  SAFE023S - Resumen Sobre las Hojas de Datos de Seguridad

This course provides an overview of safety data sheets (commonly referred to as SDS and until 2012, MSDS). Learning objectives: 1. Explain the basic premise of OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard.  2. Explain what information is required to be included on an SDS. 3. Define “downstream flow” as it relates to an SDS.  4. Describe where a company is required to store their safety data sheets.  5. Describe the sections that make up the SDS standard form. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE024 - Bariatric Hospital Bed Safety and Selection
Author: Kelli Kramer-Jackman and DuWayne Kramer, Jr.

This course will discuss current electric hospital bed standards and current regulatory processes in the United States. The course also provides a guide for selecting bariatric hospital beds and implications for future research. Learning objectives: 1. Identify types of electric hospital bed malfunctions that cause preventable injuries and deaths each year; 2. Discuss current and previous U.S. electric hospital bed standards; 3. Identify the current U.S. electric hospital bed minimal safety standard or level of equivalency that bed systems (bed, mattress, and attached equipment) should be tested at or above; 4. Discuss facility and care provider responsibility for maintaining the electric hospital bed minimal safety standard after facilities or care providers alter the bed system; 5. Identify items to consider when selecting an electric bariatric hospital bed system. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
SAFE027 - Active Shooter: What You Can Do
Author: U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Losing a loved one, a friend or a co-worker to a random act of violence is unthinkable. Unfortunately, recent events serve to remind us that we are not immune to these types of tragedies in the workplace. An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to keep people in a confined space or other populated area. This course provides guidance to individuals - including managers and employees - so they can prepare to respond to an active shooter situation. Learning objectives: 1. Describe actions to take when confronted with an active shooter and responding law enforcement officials; 2. Recognize potential workplace violence indicators; 3. Describe actions to take to prevent and prepare for potential active shooter incidents; 4. Describe how to manage the consequences of an active shooter incident. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE028 - OR Protocol and Aseptic Technique
Author: Elizabeth Bolden

A hospital operating room is not an environment where most health care professionals spend their time. However, depending on your area of expertise, you may at times be a member of a surgical patient’s health care team or a visitor in an operating room. Knowledge of and adherence to safety protocols and aseptic techniques used in operating rooms are imperative for all members of the health care team and any other visitors into operating rooms. This course will review operating room protocols and aseptic technique. Learning objectives: 1. List the responsibilities of members of the surgical team; 2. Describe the key components of sterile practice; 3. Discuss the importance of and process of hand hygiene; 4. Identify the proper procedure for gowning and gloving in a sterile environment. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SAFE029 - Occupational Health Hazards
Author: Denise Warren, BSN

By the very nature of their profession, home medical equipment providers and their staff are often called upon to deliver products and services to locations where they have little or no control over their environment. In this capacity, there may be a wide variety of safety and health hazards. This course addresses the occupational hazards that can occur in a patient’s home setting and the measures that can be taken to prevent injury should hazards occur. Learning objectives: 1. Identify risk factors and give examples of workplace violence that can occur in a patient’s home; 2. List measures you can take to prevent vulnerability for workplace violence; 3. Discuss the need to know and follow your employer’s infection control prevention program; 4. Identify measures you can take that will safeguard yourself when dealing with hazards in the work setting; 5. Discuss recommendations for dealing with extreme temperatures, unsafe environmental hygiene, and risk factors for falls in a patient’s home; 6. List actions to limit your exposure to hazards in the workplace. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80 percent on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
 

Sales & Marketing

SELL001 - Sales Account Management
Author: Louis Feuer

This course will help you sharpen your skills in sales account management. Topics range from information you should record in an account to sales presentation techniques. Learning objectives: 1. Define selling in relation to your business, and identify barriers to making a successful sale; 2. State which costs should be factored in each and every sales call; 3. Manage an account by identifying, which information is relevant and organizing all accounts based on priority; 4. State the benefit of developing a sales system; 5. State how the Feuer 10 Point Rule can be used as an effective sales technique. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SELL002 - Sales and Marketing Strategies
Author: Louis Feuer

This course outlines why you should understand your customer and your own strengths and weaknesses in order to form effective sales and marketing strategies. Learning objectives: 1. State the key points that demonstrate the importance of developing a marketing calendar; 2. Identify which important characteristics of your customer will influence your marketing plan; 3. State how your own company's strengths and weaknesses will influence your marketing plan; 4. State the overall purpose of evaluating your market and your marketing program. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SELL003 - Handling Complaints
Author: Louis Feuer

This course examines the power of a complaint, how it affects your business reputation, and provides strategies for solving the problem. Learning objectives: 1. State how complaints impact your business; 2. State methods you can use to avoid and solve complaints. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey.

 
SELL004 - The HME Customer: Where and Why?
Author: Louis Feuer

To help you understand where the home medical equipment (HME) customers are and some of the issues that are important to them. Learning objectives: 1. State the seven referral sources from which your HME customers come; 2. State how to capitalize on the unique attributes of each referral source; 3. Identify the needs of each referral source and the issues they face as indicated in this module; 4. State how to maintain a successful relationship with your customer. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SELL005 - Where are My Customers? An Overview of Selling Skills
Author: Libbie Lockard

Your success in sales is determined by a set of certain skills. This course covers how to refine these skills through proper planning, prospecting and providing service after the sale. Learning objectives: 1. List or state the sales skills needed to place yourself in a position of importance with the customer; 2. State how each sales skill is relevant to the sales process and how all are interrelated; 3. By using a simple mathematical formula, calculate the number of prospects you must find and sales calls you must make in order to remain successful in sales. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SELL007 - Positioning Wheelchair Upgrades to Maximize Sales and Customer Satisfaction
Author: Alison Cherney

This course provides you strategies to increase sales of wheelchair upgrades and accessories, and to increase customer satisfaction in the process. The material used for this course is reprinted with permission from HomeCareXtra. Copyright 2005 PRIMEDIA Business Magazines and Media. Learning objectives: 1. Set new wheelchair and accessory sales goals; 2. Explain the importance of having the right person handling your wheelchair sales and customer service calls; 3. Explain the importance of initial and on-going training of your entire staff; 4. Explain how a positive shift in staff attitude can lead to increased sales; 5. Explain how incentive plans can lead to increased sales; 6. Explain why monitoring sales performance is critically important to your business. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SELL008 - Consultative Selling Strategies
Author: Louis Feuer

Sales people need to see themselves as a resource for the customer, rather than simply as a salesperson selling to a client. This course introduces the concept of "consultative selling" whereby the customer is given the sense that he or she is always in control of the decision-making process. Learning objectives: 1. Define consultative selling; 2. Explain the four steps of the consultative selling sequence; 3. Explain the three stages of the consultative sales approach. 3. Describe the five skills needed throughout the consultative sales process; 4. Explain the purpose of using high-gained and open-ended questions during the consultative sales process. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SELL009 - The 60 Minutes Sales Manager Training Program
Author: Louis Feuer

This is a crash course for the sales manager that focuses on the key strategies you can use to monitor, track and manage your sales team. Learning objectives: 1. Describe the role of a Sales Manager; 2. Explain why sales reports are a key management and planning tool; 3. Explain why it may be necessary to develop different commission plans for each of your salespeople; 4. Explain why it is necessary for salespeople to expand your company's visibility within an existing client's organization; 5. Describe what to look for among existing territories in order to generate additional business within those territories. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SELL010 - How to Dissect Your Accounts
Author: Louis Feuer

This course provides you strategies to look a little deeper into your accounts - to "dissect" them - to find out what makes them tick. Learning objectives: 1. Define what an account actually is; 2. Develop an organization chart for an account's entire company; 3. Describe various types of account personalities; 4. Explain how an account that does not generate business can be important to your success; 5. Describe the steps you can take to remain in touch with an existing account. To successfully complete this course, you must attain a minimum score of 80% on the final exam and complete the course training survey. 

 
SELL011 - Behavior-based Selling
Author: Megan Kraft

As sales professionals, we deal with different types of customer behavior styles. To be successful in our career we must recognize these behavior styles and know how to adjust our selling style to win the relationship and the sale. This course will go over the four DISC behavior styles so that you can better identify them and become more successful at presenting to the needs of the prospect.

Learning objectives:

  1. Define the four different DISC behavior styles. 
  2. Identify your selling behavior style. 
  3. Recognize the behavior styles of the customer and adjust accordingly.

 

 
SELL012 - Stop Pitching and Start Solving: Impactful Questions to Help You Get the Sale
Author: Megan Kraft

In the sales role, asking the right questions is a great way to help you discover your prospect’s needs and what is important to them. This course will cover obstacles that sales representatives face in their sales presentations and help them ask strategic questions to increase their closing percentage.

Objectives

  1. Describe what makes an effective sales presentation.
  2. Identify ways to strengthen your current sales presentation.  
  3. Identify ways to create new and effective questions to build rapport with your customer and understand their needs.