05/14/2026
In recognition of National Nursing Week, we are excited to take this opportunity to celebrate our summer Patient Care Assistants (PCAs) program, which helps to support future RNs and RPNs with hands on clinical experience and supporting their transition to professional practice.
Through DRHC’s innovative PCA program, nursing students work with an experienced team of healthcare professionals, helping them to develop their skills and increase confidence that will serve them as they continue their studies and into their nursing careers after graduation.
Our PCA program has proven instrumental in recruiting and training the future generation of DRHC nurses.
This summer, DRHC is welcoming our largest cohort of PCAs – 15 RN and RPN students, including:
9️⃣ first-year PCAs, joining us after completing their first year of post-secondary studies;
7️⃣ former Dryden High School co-op students, coming back to DRHC after completing their co-op placements with us (5 first-year, 2 returning);
3️⃣current/ recent DRHC employees from other departments who are now pursuing careers in nursing;
2️⃣ third-year PCAs who have already signed employment contracts with DRHC ahead of completing their RN programs next year, with support from Dryden Regional Health Services Foundation New Graduate Recruitment Incentive.
This reflects our commitment to supporting the education and development of future generations of healthcare workers and creating a pipeline that supports students starting as early as high school, throughout their post-secondary studies, and into professional nursing practice.
Our PCA Program would also not be possible without the incredible support of our nursing staff, clinical educators and coordinators, and leadership teams who continue to prioritize mentorship, learning opportunities, and the integration of students into our clinical environments. Their commitment plays a critical role in helping students build confidence, experience, and connection within the organization.
Please join us in welcoming 2026 PCA student cohort. These students are future frontline nurses who will one day care for you, your families, and our community!
(📸Pictured: 7 of our first-year PCAs, from left to right: Camryn, Jade, Madison, Sophia, Sami, Claudia, and Dana!)
