NA, PCA, PSA - what's the difference?

[gizzy76]

I'm curious to know what the educational or positonal difference is between these titles.

Where I used to work, I found that when the gals/gents were hired they were NA's, then if they did some minor training within the facility could be granted PCA and then PSA status.

Where I work now, I was told that everyone who comes into the nursing home side is considered a PSA. I'm confused.

Can anyone help?

Thanks!

[gizzy76]

awww...can anyone help me out here?

[RN~in~CT]

Not exactly sure of the differences. They are called PCT's at the hospital ~ patient care technicians. I am not sure if they are certified... ie CNA.

At a prev hospital they were called PCA's ~ patient care associates. They were not certified by the state, but they took a course at the hospital.

The PSA was a multi-task role ~ they cleaned the rooms/bathrooms, passed food trays, but no real patient care. The floors had them rather than traditional "housekeeping."

The PSAs could take a course to become PCA's.

Not sure if this helps, or simply adds to the confusion.

[CarVsTree]

Those are just titles that the hospital chooses. In my hospital there are 2 different titles for CNA's (certified nursing assistants) based on experience. One is a Nursing Assistant, the other is a Patient Care Technician.

I think CNA is state by state so I don't even know if that is a valid term where you are.

I would call HR and ask them if they can explain what the titles mean.

[gizzy76]

Thanks for the info! Muchly appreciated! I think I will call HR and see what the scoop is!