PCT Program prior to Nursing School?

[channyyy]

I apologize for posting something so similar to my last post but I really need some advice. I was wanting to obtain some experience before I started nursing school. My friend and I have come across a Patient Care Tech (PCT) program, that cost almost $9000. This is a 6 month program that allows you to obtain phlebotomy certification, EKG certification, as well as CNA certification. This program does offer finical aid and will also pay for the board test. After 4 months of being in the classroom and lab setting you are assigned a hospital to finish the last 2 months. Some hospitals(so I have been told) will pay for you to further your education.

Here is the problem I have applied to Texas Woman's University for the Fall 09 semester BSN program. I do not find out if I am accepted into the program until April. This PCT program starts on March 27th. Is this worth spending $9000 when there is a possibility that I will be starting nursing school within a few months?

Thank you!

[Sarah Bellum]

No, not for 9k. You can do the training that your state requires for a CNA or STNA for far, far less money than that and then let the hospital that hires you train you for the other stuff if you need it. As a PCT you likely won't need phlebot skills unless you are in the ER and probably no EKG skills either unless you want to sit at the desk and watch the monitors.

I do think working as a nurse aide prior to starting nursing school is a great idea. It has given me an enormous advantage over my classmates who never touched a patient until their first clinical day.

Good luck!