LPN working as a PCT

monkeyhq · Aug 22, 2014

Many hospitals in my area require their PCT's to be nursing students in an RN program or have an LPN. The pay is quite low, however.

Have you considered working for the State in a state funded facility for mentally and/or physically disabled youth/young adults? Another option may be physician offices, hospital clinics (i.e. Urgent Care, Diabetes centers, Women's health, etc.)? Also, if there is a VA Hospital near you, the VA hires LPN's for various hospital wards and clinics, not just LTC. Department of Corrections, and occupational clinics (that do work force physicals and drug testing) also frequently hire LPNs.

MrsJoest · Aug 22, 2014

Thanks for responding! I'm not too worried about the pay right now. I got my LPN in 2009 and never used it so I thought I could kinda ease my way into the medical field. My babies are big enough for me to finally get back to what I want to do. I have been applying everywhere for the past two months for tech jobs and prn LPN jobs at Dr's offices and have not found any luck yet. I guess my huge time off since school didn't help. I kinda feel like I need to get back with some basic skills, that's why I thought a tech job might be a good idea. What do you think?

monkeyhq · Aug 22, 2014

It is entirely up to you! If you feel you need a refresher on the basics, then it is a good idea to do something involving direct patient care, or do a quick review course. Most new hires go through training for at least two weeks, and this may be all you really need.

I don't know exactly where you are, but Reed Hospital in Richmond hires LPN's to be LPN's in the hospital. Perhaps you could reach out to your local hospitals and see what is available? I know that you coming in as a PCT with the intention of not remaining a PCT (for very long anyway) might be a killer of opportunity if you remain an LPN because they will be sure you will eventually leave their employ. They may be more likely to give you a PCT opportunity if you are getting your BSN (instead of ASN). It depends on the hospital, I suppose. The biggest issue may be that they want to ensure that when you do become an RN that you are going to stay within their organization. I don't think any employer wants to hire someone who is going to seek greener pastures in another organization within 6-12 months.

I would also ask how you are applying...online? In person? Mail? If you are using the web apps to submit a resume, so many survey bots are used to 'weed and feed' based on certain criteria, and your resume may never even get to the HR department. It happens a lot! Especially listings on Indeed, Monster, etc. If at all possible, apply by mail, or directly on the employer's website. And always include a cover letter, and make that follow up call.

I hope this helps!

applesxoranges, BSN, RN · Aug 22, 2014

In my old hospital system, they called them advance nursing assistants and allowed them to do some things that they didn't allow other pcts to do. It was either LPN or first year of RN clinicals completed. Some may not hire you with a nursing license though due to insurance reasons. We let a PCT go the day she was licensed as an RN.

Also, I'd look for part-time since some may not hire prn for someone who does not have at least a year experience. That isn't always the case though.

MrsJoest · Aug 25, 2014

Thanks for the info guys. I'll continue the job search.