Behavioral Health PCT

[kmahnke93]

I submitted a post earlier, and I realized that I wont be needed as float , but a PRN in a specific unit; Behavioral Health.

Just from the documentaries I've watched, I am a bit overwhelmed. I'm not amazing at comfort/de-escalating situations, so I'm not sure how I would do in a behavioral health clinic. Does anyone have experience in this field?

I'm a brand new EMT grad, and I don't want to be picky with my opportunities, but is this a position I should consider?

[swimmingfever00]

Hello, I created a similar post a few months ago but I will gladly share my information with you! I have worked as a Direct Support Professional (basically a PCT) at a group home for individuals with disabilities for the past year. Before taking this job, I used to coach with the Special Olympics. And I enjoyed helping individuals with disabilities. I thought the job would be easy for me, but I was wrong!

This was my first job in the medical field since I had only volunteered at a hospital for a few months. I was given a 2 week orientation with the company, where I learned about the mission of the company and I attended lectures on how to interact with behavioral health patients. Then I took a 3 day course on Crisis Intervention and Prevention. This course taught me how to de-escalate violent situations and how to build a rapport with my patients. After the orientation, I had another 2 week orientation at the home where I worked. I learned about the residents routines and their preferred activities. And I also shadowed a co-worker before getting my own case load.

I almost quit after the first week because I was overwhelmed. But I stayed there and ended up lasting a year. I decided to stop working there last month because the stress from the job took a toll on me. Now I'm trying to find a short term job until I start nursing school in 3 months. Best of luck and feel free to message me if you want!