CNA/ PCT/ Hiring Questions

[jaratarRN]

These may be silly/common sense questions, but I am kind of confused! Sorry if these answers can be found somewhere else on the site; I did a search but was having problems deciphering everything!

So I was hoping to get into a PCT program but the waiting list was too long. I needed to get into a class ASAP to start working. I am now in a CNA class that will end in about a month. I really would love to work at a hospital as a PCT, but I will only have my CNA. Has anyone personally been hired and then trained in the additional skills, such as EKG and phlebotomy? Did you already have CNA experience?

And I am unsure of the best way to go about applying to a hospital. I have seen different suggestions on here. I see openings listed on their website, but I hear they may not be actual openings, just expected ones. Is it best to actually send in my resume/cover letter or to apply to the jobs online? Or should I actually call HR prior to placing my application? Or after? As you can see, I am not familiar with the hospital hiring process and any information would be very much appreciated! :heartbeat

[CandAmommy]

Most hospitals will train you to do the EKGs', ETC if you are hired as a PCT. A lot of the requirements for this position is to have your CNA/EMT something similar. Depending on your state is where it gets tricky on how much experience they want you to have...usually 6 months-1 year.

Call and talk to HR, that cannot hurt :)

[luvs637]

When I was looking at the job openings around my house, the hospitals were hiring "PCTs" but wanted them to have a CNA. Once hired, the new employee then goes through a three week training program at the hospital. During this time, they will show you everything additional you may need to know, but don't already.

[srkerk]

Hey there!

I just got hired as a CNA in a hosptial, no expierence and recently cerified too! Next week is the begininng of orientation...I will learn how to draw blood, hook up an EKG, and since I working in Labor and Deliver, hooking up a fetal heart monitor.

Go ahead and start applying to hosptials! Seriously...2 weeks after you apply call them. Call them until they answer the phone and say you want a status on your application. That is how I was blessed with my job =) GOOD LUCK and remember no question is silly/dumb!

[jaratarRN]

Hey there!

I just got hired as a CNA in a hosptial, no expierence and recently cerified too! Next week is the begininng of orientation...I will learn how to draw blood, hook up an EKG, and since I working in Labor and Deliver, hooking up a fetal heart monitor.

Go ahead and start applying to hosptials! Seriously...2 weeks after you apply call them. Call them until they answer the phone and say you want a status on your application. That is how I was blessed with my job =) GOOD LUCK and remember no question is silly/dumb!

Thank you all so much on your responses! And congrats on the job srkerk! I hope I have a similar experience... Labor and Delivery would actually be my ideal job!

[srkerk]

Thank you and good luck you as well!!

Like I said call call call them LOL! They are swamped with applications and this is a good way for you to stand out.

=)

[xCNAheatherx]

good luck with your applications. it took me literally a year to get hired at a hospital, which is understandable considering that i only had like 7months of previous experience at an assisted living facility...anyways, i am certified as a CNA and i also have EKG and Phlebotomy knowledge(i know how to do both but because i didn't get the required 100 needle sticks i am not a PCT yet)...it really just depends on the employer and if your resume/application seems creditable and iteresting???good luck again!!

[Miwila]

It depends on your area. Some areas it's harder to get into a hospital without experience than in others. I think that's probably true in metro areas where there's lots of competition. I say if you can find an affordable EKG/Phleb program, like one offered at your local CC, go for it. It'll help your resume stand out.