This curriculum guide contains 16 units aimed at training entry-level workers as patient care assistants in nursing homes. The units cover the following topics: the role of patient care assistants; psychosocial needs of geriatric patients; work ethics; legal issues; communication skills; infection control; safety issues; patient hygiene; patient unit; rehabilitative issues; providing mobility; mechanical restraints; nourishment; elimination; vital signs; and death and dying. The first part of the guide provides information for teachers: suggestions for teaching each unit; keys to review sheets; teacher resources and information sheets; suggested books, journals, audiovisual aids, and equipment; competency profiles for patient care assistant; and a task listing for certified patient care assistant. For students, the guide includes information sheets, worksheets, review sheets, checklists, and scorecards for each of the 16 units. (KC)