The code on 4H

[benpichette]

I am finalizing my statement. I would appreciate any and all advice!

“George! Are you alright?” No reply. He put all his weight on the foot of the bed and began to drop. He was dead weight in my hands and I was struggling to hold him up. I looked at his daughter and pointed at the wall, “Hit the STAFF ASSIST button!” I moved him towards the middle of the bed and lowered his knees to the floor as three nurses ran through the door. I began to feel a warm sensation running down my legs. As I looked down, I saw urine and feces covering my scrubs. I immediately checked his breathing and pulse; nothing. We quickly got him on the bed and I began CPR. As I felt his ribs crack, I saw his blank stare and open mouth. All I could think about was his smile as I walked into his room. I felt a rush of adrenaline and had complete confidence in my ability to help this man.

The code team rushed in as everyone rallied to their positions with the PA taking the lead. I continued with chest compressions as instructed and without hesitation. As the next clinician took over compressions, I looked around the room and felt proud to be one of the many dedicated hospital personnel working as a team to save this life.

It became my turn to provide compressions again. After about 60 seconds, I heard the PA order, “Stop compressions! We have a good rhythm.” I sighed with relief and backed away. As they transported him to the ICU, I recalled the stories, smiles, and laughter that we shared. Knowing that we gave George a second chance at life was the most incredible experience I have ever had. The EMT training that I had received completely prepared me for the critical thinking and clinical skill set needed to care for George that day. Although I have had similar experiences as a nurse tech, this one solidified my confidence that I could offer so much more to my patients. Watching the PA take charge and flawlessly handle the code was an inspiration and something that will forever motivate me throughout my career.

Since my previous application to PA programs, I have gained health care experience, shadowed multiple PAs, continued my master’s degree, and began independent research. I continued to work as a floating nurse technician through Spectrum Health for six months when I was recruited by the GI team. My work as a floating nurse tech has allowed me to care for patients of all ages with varied disorders and diseases within three of the top hospitals in Grand Rapids including Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital.

In addition to working with a variety of patients, I also had the chance to work and shadow with a variety of health care professionals. What really drew me to the PA profession was the amount of autonomy, versatility, and opportunity. I love the amount of control PAs have over their patient’s treatment plan, only consulting their physician when needed. As a floating nurse tech, I excelled in versatility, being able to adapt to new environments and work effectively, every day. This versatility will assist me with the flexibility offered to a PA. I love that a PA can switch specialties and assist in many diverse surgeries. PAs also have the potential to become PA educators. Presenting lectures and thesis material while obtaining my masters has given me experience in education, which I plan to pursue in the future.

While the beginning of my undergraduate career was a struggle, I am positive it was because of my uncertainty in career path choice. It wasn’t until I found my true passion in the biological sciences that I changed my major and increased my GPA to a 3.04. Although I had improved my GPA, I knew that it was not competitive for PA school. Therefore, I decided to obtain an MHS degree in biomedical science at Grand Valley State University, where I hold a 3.8 GPA. Excelling in these advanced courses has proven that I can handle the academic challenges that PA school may present.

While studying for my masters, I have also been working on cardiovascular research focusing on the health benefits of ALA omega 3 (-3). ALA is a plant based -3, found in many “superfoods”, which has shown inconsistent results in cardiovascular health. This research requires close attention to details, self-learning strategies, and enhanced critical thinking skills that I can leverage on as I progress as a student and into my career. This research, although pertinent to the medical field, has confirmed that pursuing a career as a PA is what is most important to me. It has confirmed that direct patient care is in my heart.

Following up on George after his code, I learned that he was discharged and is currently receiving home healthcare. As I reflect on my experience with him and the medical staff in that room, I can say, with confidence, that I am meant to be a PA. My experiences to date have justified my drive to be a PA and my education has given me an excellent base for beginning your program. I am eager to begin my PA education and bring my experiences, positivity, and ambition to your campus. I am eager to be a PA.

[PA-S(t) due!]

Hi benpichette, I love your essay, certainly some great stuff here. I enjoyed how you started and ended your essay with your story. It certainly didn't seem forced, and I think discussing the PAs role during the code really helped emphasize your desire for this specific facet of healthcare. You also addressed ways you have improved yourself as a PA school candidate, which was great.

After reading your essay, I am still interested in specific roles and / or experiences you have during your research and nursing tech jobs that gave you specific skills or taught you specific lessons. It is very clear why you love the profession, but less clear how your experiences have prepared you for this job, and why you would make a great PA (which I am sure you will be! ). I would go into more depth about these experiences, especially since this is not your first time around and discuss how they changed you.

Please reach out to me with any questions, and feel free to comment on my essay (It's all about the Journey) which I will post shortly.

Best of luck to you!!