Nursing Student Working as PCT

OliveOyl91, BSN, RN · Jun 17, 2017

Most hospitals near me do not have PCTs working in L&D. The RNs and surgical techs do all of the work that is usually done by the PCT. And working in a hospital as a PCT can be greatly beneficial for your nursing career! I work on the orthopedic floor at my hospital and there are RNs working with me that used to work as a CNA like me (we don't have PCTs). My manager knows I'm going to school to become a RN and has already spoken to me about the possibilities of working on the team as a RN.

hippie_runner · Jun 22, 2017

I am in nursing school and working as a PCT has helped me immensely. While my fellow students are trying to find their grove with time management, getting used to talking to patients, and all the charting, I already have the experience. Aside from passing meds and the full assessment, I do all of my clinical duties at my job. Another thing you might want to look into is if your hospital will pay for your school. Mine is. I will work for them as an RN for a few years in return. It is work it.

I don't know of any L&Ds that use PCTs. RNs do all the work.

Queen Tiye, RN · Jun 22, 2017

A great PCT is someone her nurse can count on --- even if your nurse forgets something, you remember. Develop a rapport with your patients and anticipate their needs. Arrive to work a few minutes early to make sure you have time to read up on your patients as it pertains to your role --- don't rely solely on another PCTs report. Establish personal/professional boundaries early on with Pts and staff. Document in a timely fashion and punch out when it's time to go.

Congratulations and best wishes!

SapphireKitten, CNA · Jun 30, 2017

I'm a tech, as well! I work in the ED and love it. All of my fellow techs in the ED are also nursing, PA, or med students. My boss always says how we're getting soooo much valuable experience for our future careers and encourages us to experience as much as possible. I would definitely suggest the same to you. If a patient with a condition you've never dealt with before comes in, jump on the case if you're able! This way you can get a good variety of experiences.

To be the best possible PCT, stay on top of your work. Oftentimes when one thing happens on the unit, literally everything happens. If several nurses are asking you for help at once, make a list of everything that needs to be done and prioritize them. I always keep a small post-it pad in my pocket to write down tasks, vitals, or anything else.

I don't think L&D typically has PCTs. My hospital certainly doesn't. Even if you're thinking about going into L&D as a nurse, I think being a PCT on a floor with a variety of situations and patients is the most beneficial (such as ED or medsurg). You'll get the most out of the experience!