nursing aide as a side job?

[misyan]

Hi all,

I am currently in a nursing program and looking for a job in the summer. I posted a ad offering elderly care/nursing aide/psw and got a reply from a lady who is looking for some care for her mom at night in a hospital. I am expected to talk to her tomorrow. I am a little bit lost as to what I should be expecting? Since its at night, I don't think its gonna be a lot of care but more providing companions? Can anyone (esp students) shed me some light? I have done my fair share of geri placements but not as a personal worker for a specific patient (how do we coordinate care w/ the floor nurse?). Thanks!!

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

you would basically be the sitter and would be there to contact the hospital staff in case of a need. The hospital staff should orient you to use of call bell and other features of the room. You would not be expected to do any care other than possible comfort measures, like adjusting pillows, getting blanket, water, etc. Ask who will accompany patient to bathroom (if she is ambulatory). Our hospital prefers that we do it, not the sitters, as we are liable for accidents.

[misyan]

Thanks, I talked w/ the family and its mostly ambulatory to the bathroom during nights. I can even sleep during shift, but they are paying $10/hr (less than min. wage in our province). So it might not worked out, it also depends on the hour as I am still in school until june