Rejection Letter and New Interview-Sitter?

[Brandi81]

I had an interview for a PCT position at an area hospital two weeks ago, it went really well, I went back for a peer interview, also went very well and it seemed like they really wanted me to work there. Then I didn't hear anything and finally got the rejection email yesterday, saying they really liked me but someone with more experience beat me out basically.

So then a few hours later I get a call from another hospital for another PCT position and in the middle of the phone interview the phone cuts out !! I finally get back through to HR and the women I was talking to said she was sorry they were having phone problems and she would call me back in an hour.

So when she calls me back she said she was looking at my resume and wanted to make the suggestion that I interview for a Patient Safety Companion position they have open and not the PCT position, because she had other candidates coming in that had more experience then I did and that this would be a better fit. She said that the PSC usually stays in that position for 3 months and then they move into an open PCT position internally. She said it would be a great way to get into a hospital. I don't know if the pay is less, but I would still work part time and in the evening, which is what I wanted so I said that I would be up for it.

So has anybody every worked as a sitter or companion in a hospital? I know I would be working with one person, fall risk, suicide watch, etc. She really didn't say how much direct patient care I would be doing, the job description said there would be some, but didn't go into great detail. Any experience, words of wisdom? My interview is tomorrow!

[CoffeemateCNA]

Let me put this nicely:

SITTING SUCKS.

However, if it will lead to a PCT position down the road, then I say go for it.

If the facility allows sitters to do patient care, it's usually just minimal stuff: quick bath and bed change, oral care, toileting. . . Stuff that won't take up much time for the shift.

Be sure you bring plenty of things to keep yourself occupied. Books, crossword puzzles, phone (don't forget charger!), laptop, whatever. Also bring cushion or something if the room has crappy chairs. Sitting in a plastic chair for 8-12 hours kills your back.

Basically, if you are in school, sitting is a godsend because you can study while you make money. But if you don't have much to do, sitting can be very rough. Shouldn't be to bad for you, though, since it's just part time and only 3 months long.

[caliotter3]

The lady was giving you great advice. I would take her up on it.

[Brandi81]

Yea that's what I was afraid of, but at this point I feel like I just need to put in the time so I have more options open to me. I am taking a class this fall, not nursing related, finishing up a masters degree I started years ago that I will never use now. So I will have reading to do at least .

I will be working 8 hour shifts, 3-11pm if I get it. I am sure I will get more details tomorrow, fingers crossed...again!