At Plan A, we’re always striving to do whatever we can to ensure that we’re providing the #BestJobEver for our PSWs and Nurses. Check out our “Ask an A Teamer” series where we asked our pool of health care professionals a few questions to learn more about them personally and their thoughts on being a part of The A Team!
Carole Lortie, PSW, Plan A Nipissing
Fun fact about Carole: She raises dairy goats and use to breed show quality poultry and sold hatching eggs Canada-wide through the mail. She now farms just for fun!
- What do you feel is unique about Plan A?
Scheduling was super important to me. I needed a very flexible work schedule. I also like the fact that I can be the difference between staff working short, or having an extra body to do care. The residents deserve the best care possible no matter how many staff are available.
2. If you could give one piece of advice to a new A Teamer what would that be?
When you walk in to any facility be aware that you are there to help out. I always tell the staff I am here for you, you tell me what is needed, then I work my butt off to make sure they are supported to the best of my ability. Work hard, and support the facility.
3. Tell us about an experience that warmed your heart.
I was caring for a very confused dementia patient. Everyone else had tried that night to no avail. She needed periodic care and was frightened. She thought I was her daughter so I played along, did the care and put her to bed. She became agitated so I sung to her while rubbing her forehead and temples and she calmed down. She told me she loved me before falling asleep peacefully.
4. What have you invested in with the extra money you have made with Plan A?
I caught up on bills and invested in more goats for my farm. I also spent money on my grandkids.
5. Why do you think now is the best time to become a PSW?
It’s a time of change for this field, it can only improve. The demand is high and it feels good to be a part of that while caring for those in need.
Christine Esquimaux, PSW, Plan A Sudbury
Fun fact about Christine: She has a small pizza business called Crusty’s and co-workers love when she brings pizza in for a treat!
- What do you feel is unique about Plan A?
That we can work at more than one destination and enjoy the scenery of the different times of the year!
2. What is the most rewarding part about being a PSW for Plan A?
I love my job and knowing that I can put a smile on peoples faces when I go to work and still be flexible and do the other things I enjoy.
3. What were you most happy about attending because you were able to create your own schedule?
I just went on a winter family retreat and got to experience dog sledding.
4. What is the most meaningful part of your shift?
Hearing residents’ stories of what they did when they were younger and how they lived.
5. Why do you think now is the best time to become a PSW?
Because it is a booming field and much-needed! It is a rewarding feeling to give back to our once teachers and knowledgeable elders/seniors.
Caroline Gignac, RPN, Plan A Simcoe
- What do you feel is unique about Plan A?
The opportunity to relieve staff shortages in LTC.
2. If you could give one piece of advice to a new A Teamer what would that be?
Be punctual and ask lots of questions to the home’s regular staff.
3. What are some qualities that you think are must-haves for a Plan A PSW?
Empathy, patience, love for seniors, caring, personability, ability to handle stress.
4. What have you invested in with the extra money you have made with Plan A?
A new car!
5. Tell us about your story, what made you want to pursue a career in health care?
When looking after my ailing step-father, I made him a promise to pursue this career and give care to others like I did to him. His last words to me were “you got what it takes to care for the elderly.”
Interested in joining The A Team as an RN, RPN, PSW or Nursing Student? Apply now: www.jointheateam.com
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