Many good points. I obtain most of my PCA's from an organization here, but I also usually have at least one privately hired PCA as an emergency backup. I also have a checklist, and highlighted on it are the things that must be done before they leave. Drink cup in place, both computers on-just in case one fails, ECU on, kitchen stove is turned off! speakerphone is set up for mouth stick use.
As Steve mentions it is very important to review everything now and then. In my case, we discuss wound care every single month, as it usually changes as the wound gets better, and I always want each PCA to be up to date. I'm really trying to be in tune with my attendance moods, and yes they have all been friends of the family if they stayed with me. I still have contact with my first PCA from 20 years ago, and if not visiting with them physically, I usually talk with former PCA's at the holidays. Sometimes, I would rather not be mother confessor, when I have had PCA's that do not have family here, im the one that they bounce their problems off of. I have acquired several "grandchildren" over the years, and I always say you can't have enough grandkids J. Communication, communication, appreciation, appreciation and the ability to know when it is time to sit down and say that this is not working and we both need to move on in a way that ends the relationship on a positive note if possible. We are so dependent on our PCA's that it can be frightening to have to talk about negatives and fear that we might lose our attendant over some trifling matter, but sometimes it has to be done. I always try to pick a time when we are both in good spirits even if it means waiting a couple of days. I am involved in a program that I started with the agency that helps new clients to learn how to cope and accept the help of the PCA's can give without resentment or blame passed on to the PCA. We try to explain to new clients that is OK to be angry about losing personal freedom, but to try and put that anger aside and accept the help that we need. It's a gigantic issue, and one that we all have dealt with, and most of us have solved it in our own individual way. Joan
