LPN or PCT Which one is better?

WereBadger · Dec 27, 2015

You may want to look at the phrasing you've used here, especially in an LPN forum. Many LPNs (including myself) were admitted to and then went through highly competitive programs, maintained an excellent GPA, take pride in our work and don't just see our experience as a stop-gap "until we can do better", even though many of us will carry on to RN licensure.

MSBREELEE · Dec 27, 2015

I just need to know what would be the recommended track for someone who had two semesters of toughness but is trying to attain a nursing career.

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Dec 27, 2015

PCT is often on the job training not a vocational or academic course. Many for profit schools offer "training" but it isn't always worth the price paid. See if local community education offers a program. It's generally minimal academics, not necessarily a certification though some will count towards phlebotomy certification. PCT is rarely a stepping stone to nursing as its not an academic program but a job skills training program.

LPN is an academic vocational pursuit and even an associates level program at some schools. It's an academic program that leads to eligibility to take the NCLEX to become a licensed nurse. You may not qualify for admission if currently on academic probation at another school

There are significantly more academics involved, tests, benchmark exams, laboratory simulations, hands on clinicals involved with any nursing program than an unlicensed, non-regulated assistive personnel program such as PCT. LPN is not a consolation for those who fail out of an RN program.

The PCT type programs don't lead to significant employment opportunities in my area . Some physician offices hire PCT in addition to MAs. You aren't eligible to work in acute rehab, subacute rehab or long term care as a PCT as Medicare rules require CNA certification. (Approximately 6 weeks full time. Low cost sometimes on the job training offered through community HS or county college & vocational programs). Hospitals tend to hire experienced CNAs and do on the job training for ECG and pct type work

Zyprexa_Ho · Dec 28, 2015

Honestly, if you're a CNA with some experience, you can get on the job training to become a PCT. That's what I did. Being a CNA is something with some recognition by state boards of nursing, PCT alone is not.

With that said, I would go LPN. Pay is much better, and it is a much better stepping stone to RN. If I didn't already have a bachelor's I would go for my LPN, but I'm going for my ASN to save time.

NurseGirl525, ASN, RN · Dec 28, 2015

I'm not sure you are understanding the difference. A PCT is a patient care technician, no schooling is needed generally. An LPN is a nurse. You must be admitted to the program, pass, and pass the NCLEX before you are licensed. They are not even close to the same job.

If you are on academic probation, you may need to find a different career. LPN programs are just as competitive, so you would have difficulty getting a program.

beekee · Dec 28, 2015

The beauty of nursing is that there is no role that is "better" than another. Whether you are a PCT or LPN, you will play a vital role. However, each role is different in terms of scope, training, education, and pay. Some nursing positions are more common in different types of facilities than others. What is best is what fits with your goals, etc.

Cream and sugar LPN · Dec 28, 2015

You may want to look at the phrasing you've used here, especially in an LPN forum. Many LPNs (including myself) were admitted to and then went through highly competitive programs, maintained an excellent GPA, take pride in our work and don't just see our experience as a stop-gap "until we can do better", even though many of us will carry on to RN licensure.

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Well said!

OP, if you are struggling in nursing school do not for an instant think that LPN school is a chance to catch your breath. These programs are intense and very fast paced.

I had a girl in my cohort that failed out of an ADN program only to fail out of the LPN program in medsurg. Nursing school is not for everyone..

CNC_1989 · Dec 28, 2015

In the hospital where I used to work they would train people to be a PCT. If you want to get into nursing try LPN, you could work as a PCT while in school. Be warned though, LPN programs can be just as competitive and it's no cake walk.