How many people worked as a tech before graduation? Do you feel it helped you?

[Irene joy]

I recently had an interview to be a tech in a large cardiac floor that has a cardiac cath lab, cardiac surgeries and all types of cardiac procedures. Even if I don't get it, I will still apply for other positions because I feel that nursing school does not really prepare you tp actually be a nurse. We only have clinical once a week and I want to feel more comfortable in a acute care setting. Did you feel that working as a tech has helped you as a new nurse?

[Virgo_RN, BSN, RN]

I didn't work as a tech, I worked as a CNA prior to and during nursing school. CNA work is more task oriented than nursing, and while it is physically demanding, you don't have the mental gymnastics thrown into the mix. Working as a CNA did help me to be more comfortable interacting with patients and more familiar with the acute care environment prior to becoming a nurse.

[diane227, LPN, RN]

I did work in my senior year as a nurse tech in a very large hospital, over 500 beds. It was the best preparation that I ever had to start my working career after graduation.

[Mandylou]

I did not work in the medical field before I graduated and I really wish that I could have. I wasn't even comfortable turning patients when I first started! I didn't know all the little tricks that come with experience. So the seasoned nurses stood around looking at me thinking "this is what you get when you get a brand new RN?" Fortunately I learn quickly. I can't tell you how many times I have heard someone ask "Have you ever worked in the field before?

[monicabw]

I worked as a sec/tech for the 2 years that I was in nursing school and it was honestly the best decision ever. You will learn so much about the medical field, including medical terminology, medications, and the overall flow a medical center. It is also very useful when you reach the point of interviewing for a position as an RN. I tech'd at the hospital I applied for a job at and it was very useful to have a recommendation from a director known to my interviewer. Needless to say, I got the job, and it helped that my boss had good things to say. Teching is a tough job, especially if you are on a large unit. Best of luck.

[WalkieTalkie, RN]

I was a CNA for many years before I became an RN. The best experiences to help me learn was when I worked in the ICU and ER. I worked all through school, and the things I learned then still help me now.