Healthcare Education Programs at Ottawa Township High School

Ottawa Township High School (OTHS) in Ottawa, IL provides a variety of healthcare education programs designed to prepare students for careers in the medical field. These programs aim to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to either enter the workforce directly upon graduation or to continue their education in healthcare at post-secondary institutions.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program

One of the flagship healthcare education offerings at OTHS is the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program. This program is crafted to introduce students to the essentials of nursing care and patient interaction. Key components of the program include:

• Fundamental Nursing Skills: Students learn basic nursing skills such as taking vital signs, patient hygiene, and mobility assistance.
• Clinical Experience: Practical training sessions are integrated into the curriculum, allowing students to work in real healthcare settings under supervision.
• Certification Examination Preparation: The program prepares students for the state CNA certification exam, a requisite for becoming a certified nursing assistant.

Health Occupations Student Association (HOSA)

OTHS also encourages participation in the Health Occupations Student Association (HOSA), a national organization that promotes career opportunities in the healthcare industry and enhances the delivery of quality health services. Through HOSA, students can:

• Network with Professionals: Engage with healthcare professionals and gain insights into various medical careers.
• Compete and Learn: Participate in state and national competitions that hone their skills and knowledge in various healthcare disciplines.
• Leadership Development: Take part in leadership training and community service projects that develop essential soft skills.

Dual Credit Opportunities

To further support students’ aspirations in the healthcare sector, OTHS offers dual credit opportunities in partnership with local community colleges. These courses allow students to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously, accelerating their journey toward advanced healthcare education. Some of the dual credit courses might include:

• Medical Terminology: An introduction to the language used in the healthcare field, focusing on the vocabulary needed to interact with professionals and understand medical documentation.
• Anatomy and Physiology: Comprehensive courses that cover the structure and function of the human body, essential for any healthcare profession.

Health Science Courses

Beyond specialized programs, OTHS provides a broad array of health science courses that are fundamental to understanding the healthcare system. These include:

• Introduction to Health Careers: An exploratory course that offers an overview of various careers in health sciences, from clinical roles to administrative positions.
• Health and Wellness: Course content that focuses on personal health, preventive care, and wellness strategies.

Get Started Today

Students at Ottawa Township High School benefit from a robust healthcare education program that not only introduces them to essential healthcare concepts but also provides practical experience and advanced learning opportunities. Whether aiming to become certified nursing assistants straight out of high school or to pursue further education in the medical field, OTHS offers a sound foundation to launch their healthcare careers. Explore these programs and get started on a fulfilling path in the healthcare industry today.