How do I get an entry level PCT job?

OliveOyl91, BSN, RN · Apr 6, 2017

Sadly, getting a position in a hospital took me two years of long-term care/acute rehab care experience and lots of applications. A lot of hiring managers won't look at an application without a minimum of 1 year experience. This isn't always the case, but that's how it is out here. There are always exceptions to the rule, though! Make sure you have a nice resume and ask coworkers or previous managers if they could be used as references. In Washington where I work, PCTs are CNAs, with the exception of ED Techs who could be CNAs or EMTs. I applied to over 20 positions in 2 years before I was interviewed and offered a position.

SavingGrace007 · May 2, 2017

I worked at an assistant living for one year and then started applying at hospitals. I've worked in every department in the hospital for the past five years. I have talked to many new techs over those years who came straight in with no experience and only a CNA cert! Be professional, get a great looking resume, look professional and start going on the hospital websites. Don't let that one-year experience issue keep you from applying. After you apply online and download your resume wait a few days and take your resume in HR as a hard copy. Introduce yourself to HR and say that you are a PCT and would love to be a team player at their hospital. Shake their hand and tell them you can start immediately. If you believe in yourself, look sharp and do this....I can just about promise you that you will get the job. Tenacity and self confidence work! â¤ï¸â¤ï¸â¤ï¸

mindofmidwifery, ADN · May 8, 2017

Unfortunately, you'll most likely have to get a year of experience first. I had to work for a year in a LTC facility before any hospital would call me back.

Nurse580, MSN, RN · May 9, 2017

Hello!

When I graduated with a Basic Nurse Assistant Specialist Certificate from a local community college in August 2016 I wanted to work in a hospital right away but was told by my clinical instructor that I would have to work at a LTC or Rehab Facility for 6 months- 1 year first. However, I was able to get a job on an ortho/neuro unit of a 255 bed hospital by December! In my state, I couldn't take the CNA state exam until October so I worked as a Home Health Aide during that time. The day of my exam, I submitted applications to PCT positions at various hospitals. I already have a degree in Biology and I was planning on applying to Direct Entry MSN Programs. The hiring manager recognized me from being a volunteer in high school and was encouraged by my plan to continue into Nursing. You should highlight any previous experience, including volunteering You also need to demonstrate that you are a self-starter and can handle a stressful work environment. They will train you they just need to see that you understand the pace of working in a hospital. Good luck!

kaseyrachele · May 29, 2017

Do you have any other experience that you could offer? I know it takes more than JUST this, but know how to market yourself! I got a job in a hospital as a PCT without direct patient care experience, but I was a massage therapist beforehand. I discussed how being a massage therapist requires a calm demeanor and extensive A&P knowledge. I also discussed that my extensive work history in fast food and restaurant settings has really helped me develop patience and the ability to stay calm and work under extreme stress.

Those are all important qualities to have in any hospital position.

kaseyrachele · May 29, 2017

And be prepared with references, and a letter of recommendation can't hurt either. :) If you have interest in furthering your career (nursing?), let them know!