Quick Answer
Providers need 75-hour Home Care Aide training at a DSHS-approved program followed by the certification exam (unless exempt), the AFH Administrator Training course offered through Washington community colleges, and current CPR, First Aid, and Food Safety certification. Homes carrying specialty designations must complete additional DSHS specialty training in dementia, mental health, or developmental disabilities. Continuing education is required annually to keep the Home Care Aide credential current.
Training runs on its own calendar, separate from the building and the application. Because courses fill and certification exams are scheduled, starting early is the difference between opening when the house is ready and waiting months after.
75-hour Home Care Aide training covering personal care, resident rights, communication, safety, and infection control; the certification exam and Department of Health credential; AFH Administrator Training; CPR from any accredited provider; First Aid; Food Safety.
Required for homes that want the dementia, mental health, or developmental disabilities specialty designation. These designations appear on the license and in the DSHS locator and determine which residents the home may admit.
Annual hours to maintain the Home Care Aide credential, plus optional certifications that strengthen a home's positioning with referral sources.
Through Washington community colleges that offer the DSHS-approved course. Seats are limited; enroll early.
Caregiving staff must hold Home Care Aide certification or an exemption, complete orientation and safety training, and pass a DSHS background check.
About the author: David Stein is a Washington State licensed real estate broker (eXp Realty, license #133972) and a Washington State certified residential appraiser (Stein Appraisal, license #1702080), with more than 20 years of experience in both disciplines. More about David.
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