Can a CNA be a PCT?

On 5/20/2019 at 9:09 PM, CNA_R said:

I recently got certified as a CNA. I haven't currently applied for nursing school yet, due to being under 18, so I only have experience in basic patient care, taking vitals, and other CNA duties. I'm not exactly sure what all a PCT does, as it seems to vary between hospitals. None of the hospitals around my area have actual CNA positions, only PCT positions. With that being said, I have a few questions. What is the scope of practice of a PCT? Is the training on the job, since I already have my CNA? If it helps, I'm currently looking at an oncology and mother baby position. Thanks!

Hello @CNA_R! The only difference between a CNA, PCT and MA is where they work. PCT’s you’ll mostly see in a hospital or rehab centers. Can CNA’s and MA’s work as a PCT? Yes. The job duties aren’t really any different across the board.

In my area CNA is equal to a PCT (and CP).

In my area a PCT is a CNA with extra training and a slightly bigger scope of practice. Such as being able to give meds to a patient.

The CNA's in my hospital go by the job title, PCT. They are trained to do blood glucose checks, bladder scans and in the Emergency Room they sometimes insert foley catheters and do EKG's. The title and scope varies state to state, and sometimes even hospital to hospital. I don't think any of the hospitals in my area hire anyone under 18 for PCT positions, though.