HCA News

March 9, 2026 | News

Standards of Practice for Health Care Aides in Alberta

What’s in the document?

Regulated health professionals follow common standards for their competence and conduct. In our series, “What’s in the Document?” we will share information on key requirements for Health Care Aides (HCAs) in Alberta as established in documents from the College of LPNs and HCAs of Alberta (CLHA).

What Are the Standards of Practice for HCAs in Alberta?

Standards of practice explain the behaviour that HCAs are expected to meet in their professional practice. Any action that does not follow standards of practice could be considered unprofessional conduct.

The Standards of Practice for Health Care Aides in Alberta define the professional expectations for HCAs across all practice areas and settings.

What’s In the Document?

The Standards of Practice for HCAs in Alberta include three main standards.

Professional Responsibility and Accountability
Practice and Communication
Self-Regulation and Public Safety

This section describes HCA responsibilities related to meeting regulatory requirements as well as professional accountability, continuing competence, duty to report, and more.

This section describes responsibilities related to collaboration within the healthcare team, professional communication, documentation, and more.

This section describes responsibilities related to self-regulation, which means being accountable for decisions and actions, and includes fitness to practice, understanding the HCA role, and more.

Where Can I Find More Information?

CLHA Documents

Professional Responsibility and Accountability Policy

Addresses regulatory requirements in various areas.

Read Policy
Fitness to Practice

Clarifies fitness to practice requirements under regulation.

Read Interpretive Document
Code of Ethics for HCAs in Alberta

Establishes six fundamental principles that govern HCA practice.

Read Code of Ethics

Learning Resources

HCAs can access learning modules by logging into their account on MyCLHA.

Understanding HCA Professional Regulation Module

Provides HCAs with an understanding of how regulation works and impacts their practice.

Read More
Professional Communication for HCAs Module

Builds HCA skills in communication, supporting client safety and a positive workplace.

Read More
Documentation for HCAs Module

Teaches HCAs how to document their work accurately and in line with legal standards.

Read More

How to Use CLHA Documents

When determining practice and conduct requirements, HCAs should refer to legislation, CLHA documents, and employer requirements.

Looking for further guidance?

Contact the Professional Practice Team through Ask CLHA
or call 780-484-8886 or 1-800-661-5877.