Being a PCA during the COVID-19 pandemic has been mentally and emotionally draining. Risking my own health and safety in this pandemic has been scary and overwhelming. In March 2020 things started changing drastically. My biggest focus was to make sure I was protected and up to date about everything that was taking place. As an essential worker I knew that I had to show up at work, and take all the precautions required.
In the 15 years I’ve been working as a PCA I have never seen so many changes until this pandemic. No one was fully prepared for what was happening, but seeing every staff member work together, helping one another through these rough times made things less stressful. I started noticing my anxiety increasing drastically, due to this pandemic. Fear and anxiety has taken over. We are all scared and we all want this to be over.
My day to day shift constantly changes. Every shift I work has a new policy implemented, we want to make sure we are protecting not only ourselves but the patients as well. Daily temperature check, constant hand washing and sanitizing, wearing protective equipment is the new norm now. Sometimes I wish I didn’t have to go to work but I am extremely grateful that I’m still employed with a steady income. After work I’ll change in my hallway and shower immediately. A little paranoid, maybe, but I do not want to come home and get my children sick. I am more concerned about their health than mine. So I take extra precautions when coming home from work.
Since the pandemic I’ve been giving my hair a break usually keeping it in a low bun making sure it’s moisturized and well hydrated. One product I’ve been reaching for the most is Uncle Funky’s Daughter Conditioning Styling Creme, providing the moisture and shine I need while at work.Visiter restrictions have been very difficult for everyone to handle. I appreciate every staff member I work with, environmental services, distribution suppliers, dietary services, secretaries, guest services, cashiers, etc, we all continue to work during these tough times.
Everyone is exhausted, mentally and physically drained. I just wish there was more I could do to help. Seeing family members not being able to visit their loved ones is truly heartbreaking. One of the most effective ways to help is to always wash your hands, maintain social distancing and wear your mask, and stay at home if you don’t have anything important to do!
xoxo
Gleydy Brito @curlzmatic
