New job as a PCA at a hospital..

[mag426, ADN, BSN]

Hi, I'm new to this forum but I found it very helpful during my interview process for my PCA position. I got the offer yesterday, I'm so happy!! I'm currently taking my pre-reqs at a community college and will be applying for nursing school next year so this is a big step to give me hands on experience in the medical field. I have been working retail for almost 2 years and recently applied to Newton-Wellesley Hospital as a PCA and got the job. They offer 5 weeks of training which is perfect because this is my first hospital job and have never done anything like this before. I will be working my assigned shift after the 5 weeks of training which is 3rd shift and every other weekend. I'm so excited but nervous at the same time, I start orientation in 2 weeks and gave my 2 week notice yesterday at my current job. Any tips for a new PCA that you can provide would be helpful and I do attend school full-time so I'm going to have to find a study schedule that works for me. I'm open to any comments, advice or tips.

[Sukari]

Congrats!! This will give you a big lead and preparation for nursing school. I am a 2nd year nursing student and am now trying to find a PCA job:-/ My big challenge is everyone wants experience and clinical experience isn't enough.

As for you, my advice is to NETWORK! Meet people and make a GREAT impression. Soon you will need those letters of recommendation and it really helps to know the right people. Good luck!

[boogalina, ADN, ASN, BSN, MSN, LPN]

Congratulations!Learn everything you can about your unit (if you will usually work in the same one). If you will be floating to different units, learn the layout of each one, where everything is kept, customary routines for vitals, blood sugar checks, etc.You'll do well! I'm a first year nursing student and feel that my experiences in LTC and acute care have really helped me in clinicals and "connecting the dots."

[mag426, ADN, BSN]

Thank you! Don't be discouraged you will find something soon :) Yes, I will take advantage of my surroundings and network my butt off.

[mag426, ADN, BSN]

@boogalina, thank you! I will try my best to learn everything that I can possibly learn about the floor I will be working on. I will be on the floor with preoperative and post operative patients only. I can't wait to start applying for nursing schools after I'm done with my prerequisites =)