1st Job...SCAAAARED!!!

[MissMcCoy]

I just got offered a job in homecare! I have not been in any Health Care Aide courses. I do not have ANY experience...

My client is a double leg amputee, and dementia is setting in. I know that they will train me and I'm so happy to have the opportunity to help out but I have to say Im kinda freaking out a little!!

How did you deal with your first jobs or first clinical experiences??

[Ev1987]

I have and currently work with amputee's with dementia. Don't freak out, it's really not too bad. The best advice I can give you is to gather as much information towards care for the client from the nurse and/or relatives. Until you get use to the client and his ways, prepare yourself mentally that this may be a challenge, but act decently and professional at all times.

[travelgurl18]

I currently work as a home health aide and it was my first job in that career. The client is usually very understanding and patient when it comes to new aides and especially ones with no experience. In my case my client were very patient and helpful in telling me there needs and wishes.

I would also recomend going to your local library and checking out books on caregiving and dementia. Some books offer lots of practice tips and techniques that you may not have learned in clinicals. It will also give you a little more confidence. Even youtube has a few great videos on transfers, dementia, etc.

Best of luck, trust me it gets easier. Now I know what to do like the back of my hand. I was a nervous reck but it gets to be much easier. Don't panic :)