PCT while in NS at hospital...transition to RN

[Jess_Missouri_RN]

I just started NS in January. Just recently (like 2 days ago) I applied and accepted a position as a unit clerk at a LTC facility. It's 2 days per week. I've done random NA since 1997, never been certified and probably haven't worked as NA in over 5 years. I do have some medical experience, working on/off as NA and some medical billing/reception work. The unit clerk position is mainly paperwork/phone work but it was the hours I needed because of school.

I have a hospital that I want to work at when I graduate, not sure on department but I know I want this hospital. They hire NS as PCT I, II and III. For PCT III I need to wait until my last nursing semester, PCT II is after nursing fund. or CNA (which I'm not).

I believe I would like to try and apply for PCT II when the time comes but I also would like to have at least 1 yr experience as the unit clerk.

My concern is I know PCT at a hospital is probably nothing like NA/CNA at LTC. Would my experience as a NA help at all? And since I would like to be a nurse at this hospital would being a PCT help ease me into the RN position? I would like to be a PCT on the same floor I want to RN on but I still dont know what that would be yet.

So, for those who worked as PCT before RN and on the same floor, was it easier, do you recommend it? I would think it would be somewhat easier as you know the staff/regulations, etc already. Not really coming in as a "newbie" just upgrading your position.

Just confused. Ack.

[law3576]

I read your post and figured it was St. Lukes'. I currently work there as a PCT II (should be III though since i'm graduating in May). I chose to work there this past fall so I would have some experience. Working there you will be blood draws, EKG's and insert Foley's and a few other things. It will definetly help you out before graduating nursing school because you'll already have those skills under your belt.

I know many nurses who were tech's there first and then became RN's. I don't there has been any problems as far as the transition.

DO you know what floor you would like to work? PM me and I can help you out. I get pulled to many floors and have worked over half of them.

[Jess_Missouri_RN]

I read your post and figured it was St. Lukes'. I currently work there as a PCT II (should be III though since i'm graduating in May). I chose to work there this past fall so I would have some experience. Working there you will be blood draws, EKG's and insert Foley's and a few other things. It will definetly help you out before graduating nursing school because you'll already have those skills under your belt.

I know many nurses who were tech's there first and then became RN's. I don't there has been any problems as far as the transition.

DO you know what floor you would like to work? PM me and I can help you out. I get pulled to many floors and have worked over half of them.

Thanks, I sent you a PM