Fall 2023 PCA Graduates

Last month, 18 individuals graduated from the Brigham’s in-house Patient Care Associate (PCA) Academy and began in new roles as members of the patient care team on various units.

“The Academy has helped to launch the clinical careers of those interested in working closely with patients, families and nursing staff,” said Kenyon. “I’m thrilled that the program helps to make this career path more attainable.”

The Center for Nursing Excellence established the PCA Academy in 2022 to help recruit, train and onboard new patient care assistants. No clinical experience is necessary, and many of the participants include Brigham staff from other departments interested in a new career path. Facilitating continuous learning and growth for staff, the PCA Academy also helps the hospital to fill an important patient care role amid a shortage of candidates locally.

The program includes 80 hours of in-person training over two weeks, as well as a unit-based orientation, hands-on skills demonstrations, training for EPIC and a three-hour simulation in the STRATUS Center for Medical Simulation.

Nativita Jeanty Jaboin, a recent graduate who is now a patient care assistant in the Float Pool, shared her experience with the PCA Academy and advice for those considering a career as a PCA.

Nativita Jeanty Jaboin

In what role did you work before you became a PCA?

I worked in housekeeping and then in patient transport at the Brigham.

What drew you to patient care?

I love helping people. Growing up, I liked taking care of people. I’ve wanted to be a nurse since I was a little girl. I am also passionate about learning new skills, so the PCA Academy training program felt like a perfect fit.

What was your experience like in the PCA Academy?

The PCA Academy training program was one of the best experiences of my life. The program had a family-like environment where everyone knows everyone. I appreciated all of the support, generosity, courage and encouragement.

How did the PCA Academy help you to achieve your goals?

The PCA Academy provided me with a lot of support to help me transition to a clinical career. It was very helpful to me in improving communication, collaboration, leadership and more. All of the teachers were extremely knowledgeable, teaching us everything we needed to know to be a PCA.

What inspires you to continue working at the Brigham?

I really enjoy working at the Brigham and love that it is a large teaching hospital. I am amazed by its immense resources and also by the level compassion and professionalism of all staff. I am always interested in learning new skills, and I would love to further my education while remaining here at the Brigham. My dream is to one day become a registered nurse, and this experience has been an amazing first step.

What are you finding most rewarding about your new role as a PCA?

I find the role most rewarding when I can contribute to a patient’s well-being and provide comfort and support during their health care journey. I really enjoy helping patients and making a difference in their lives.

What advice do you have for others considering joining the PCA Academy?

It was a wonderful experience that I highly recommend to anyone interested. I am sincerely grateful for having had this incredible opportunity.

The next PCA Academy’s interview day is January 25, 2024, and the next training session begins on March 3, 2024. To learn more, please contact Mark Renehan and Joseph Candler of Talent Acquisition. No clinical experience is necessary.