Since a health unit coordinator deals with a variety of medical information, she must have a general understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Anatomy and physiology courses provide instruction on all body parts and functions. The courses also teach about basic functions of cells, tissues and all the major body systems, such as the digestive, nervous and reproductive systems.
Most health unit coordinator programs require individuals to have current CPR training. CPR training classes abide by the guidelines established by the American Heart Association and train individuals on the actions to take when an individual is unresponsive. CPR courses emphasize the importance of the first five minutes and the crucial steps that should be taken. This training helps individuals maintain emergency circumstances until additional medical help arrives to the scene. Some CPR training courses teach individuals how to use automated external defibrillator devices.
Health unit coordinators must have a solid understanding of the various medical terms and jargon used in the health care field. Medical terminology courses provide instruction on the basic methods of building medical words and enable students to gain a solid medical vocabulary. Medical terminology courses introduce medical terms related to anatomy and physiology, medical conditions, diagnosis of conditions and many different treatment options. The courses provide instruction on the prefixes, suffixes and root words and emphasis correct spelling and abbreviations of medical terms.
Computer basics courses introduce students to the basic functions of computers and how to use computer programs for specific tasks. Students learn basic keyboarding skills and the technical aspects of word processing.
Health unit coordinators must have an understanding of fundamental computational abilities and how to apply them to work tasks. Basic mathematics courses provides instruction on basic mathematical topics including algebra applications.
Some programs waive certain prerequisite courses for prospective health unit coordinators that have a current Certified Nursing Assistant license. Most health unit coordinator programs also require students to pass a criminal background check.