Info about PCT at Barnes Jewish Hospital

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Specializes in MICU, SICU, and transplants.

A few months ago I scoured this website for info on Barnes' PCT program and didn't find that much. I have now completed that program, am working as a PCT at Barnes, and want to share the info that I was so crazily seeking!

How to get hired?

Don't rely on the internet apps. Call the recruiters and if they don't call back that day call them again. I interviewed with a recruiter one day, then with my manager the next day and was hired immediately. It is a quick process once you get the ball rolling.

Pay?

Starts at $9.78 with no experience. Night/Evening differential is $1.00 and weekends it's .85. This was not explained to me well but it is what I see on my paychecks.

What is the training like?

After a 1 1/2 day general hospital orientation you begin 10 days of PCT class, which is 8-4:30 most days. Towards the end you do a few clinical days on general med floors at the hospital under the supervision of a nurse.

What do you learn?

Vitals (blood pressure, temp, oxygen sats, blood glucose, I&O, etc.)

Basic medical terminology

Bed baths & other hygiene

Tube feeding (this may be going away due to new policy)

EKG, 12 lead and 5 lead (you learn how to set these up but not how to read them)

Blood drawing

Restraints

Respiratory basics (masks, oxygen levels, etc.)

Wound care (incl. sterile technique)

After the 10 day PCT training, you start working on your floor. You will be paired with a trainer (another PCT) for at least a month before doing the job on your own. I think each floor does this part differently so you'll need to ask your manager for specifics.

If anyone is looking for any other info I'd be glad to answer the questions.

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