Teacher Spotlight- Mrs. Lauver
What is the most significant new or different aspect to your program this year?
“There isn’t really anything that is “new”, just working through any new changes from PA Dept. of Education that apply to the program. We now have approval for In-Facility Testing again, so learn how to practice here and test here!”
What are some of the more common career pathways your students take when they leave CPACTC?
“Typically, the students use CNA as a steppingstone to move into other careers in healthcare. Most common career path is Nursing.”
What particular training/unit do employers seek that helps students get their foot in the door?
“NA’s are always in demand, so whether or not students earn the NA certification or choose to work as a PCA, when the NA cert is not needed, they can be a valuable team member, with just the foundational skills learned here.”
What unit/topic do students struggle with the most in your program?
“The transition from class/lab where they practice skills on parts/manikins, to the real world in LTC where they care for real elderly individuals.”
Explain a typical day in your program.
“We have discussion/theory, then videos, and then lab time to practice on the parts/manikins.”
What advice would you give students who have completed your program?
“Follow your own path and keep in mind why you chose the HC profession. Be a good human.
How many years have you been at CPACTC?
“In total, I’ve been working at CPACTC for 13 years.”
What was your experience before coming to CPACTC?
“I have worked in LTC, rehab, home health, sub-acute care, care management, and the operatory room.”
Program Spotlight- Healthcare Pathways Students
Summarize what you learn in Healthcare Pathways in ONE SENTENCE (if you can).
“The CNA program is all about learning new information and applying what we learned in the lab when we practice.”
“Specialized care for others.”
“How to provide proper care for other when they cannot care for themselves.”
What is the hardest part of Healthcare Pathways?
“Keeping a schedule to balance the amount of CNA work with your sending schoolwork.”
“Retaining all of the information learned.”
What is the most fun part of Healthcare Pathways?
“Roleplaying our skills in the lab.”
What is some recent technology you are learning to use in Healthcare Pathways that is specific to your profession?
“Most of the beds in the lab are different from one another which can help us in the future to know that not all beds will work the same.”
What is your plan for after high school? BE SPECIFIC!
“I plan to go to college either for Pre-Med or Surgical Technology.”
“Go to college and become a travel nurse.”
“Attend Penn State College, and continue to grow my Nursing education with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.”
What is going to be the highlight of the year in Healthcare Pathways?
“Going to clinical at the end of the semester.”
“Probably going to a long-term care facility and taking care of residents.”
What are you proud of learning how to do in Healthcare Pathways?
“I am proud of everything I have learned because it can be used in a real-world situation.”
“How to take care of people and become an efficient learned.”
“Taking care of real residents independently.”
Explain a typical day in Healthcare Pathways.
“We review our plan for the day, work on notes and workbook pages for theory, learn a new skill and then practice the skill in the lab area.”
How is your program at CPACTC different from other classes you have had in the past? Can you give some examples?
“HP at CPACTC is a very hands-on learning experience. And for those that don’t feel 100% comfortable with the physical touch required for healthcare, you will easily become okay with it as you learn.”
“CPACTC is career-oriented learning.”
What advice would you give to a beginning Level 1 student who is just starting the program or to a student who is considering enrolling in Healthcare Pathways?
“It is a wonderful opportunity that you should take advantage of if you have ANY interest in the medical field. Honestly, the workload will feel a bit much at first, but once you settle in and get in a groove, you will do great! Go for it!”
“Focus on your work and make some friends along the way. Your first year is the most important to build your foundation in your education.”
“Get your work done, and STUDY, STUDY, STUDY!”