Description:
Course Goal: Equip youth care staff with the knowledge and skills to recognize and respond appropriately to medication side effects, signs of substance use, and symptoms of illness or disease in children and teens.
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Course Content
Lesson 1: Introduction: Why Recognition Matters
Lesson Content
Explain why early recognition of health and behavior changes is critical to ensuring youth safety and preventing medical or behavioral emergencies.
Identify early warning signs related to medications, illness, substance use, and behavioral changes that may indicate a developing concern.
Distinguish common myths from facts about recognizing health and behavior concerns in youth care settings.
Lesson 2: Recognizing Expected Side Effects of Medications
Lesson Content
Identify common mild side effects of medications used in youth care settings.
Differentiate between expected and concerning reactions.
Lesson 3: Responding to Concerning Side Effects
Lesson Content
Identify urgent side effects requiring immediate medical attention.
Apply response protocols in medication-related emergencies.
Lesson 4: Recognizing Signs & Effects of Substance Use
Lesson Content
Identify physical and behavioral signs of possible substance use in youth.
Understand short- and long-term effects of substance abuse.
Lesson 5: Recognizing Illness & Disease
Lesson Content
Identify early warning signs of common and chronic illnesses in youth.
Apply escalation protocols based on severity.