PCT after second semester

[mangopeach]

Anyone started working as a PCT after 2nd semester? I did not plan to work through nursing school. I really wanted to just focus on doing well in school. I'm thinking about working as a PCT after I'm done with 2nd semester. I see ads all the time for nursing students to work as PCTS. I'm just scared of work getting in the way of studying. How many hours per week do you work as a PCT? Did it affect your grades? I know its all individual but would love some feedback.

[AgentBeast, MSN, RN]

It wouldn't hurt and might even benefit you to take a PRN position as a PCT while in nursing school. Usually you only have to work a certain number (usually 3) of 12 hour shifts in a period (usually 6 weeks) to maintain your position. Hospitals usually take care of their own so when you graduate and pass the NCLEX-RN you are more likely to get hired at that hospital. Getting experience even as a PCT never hurts.

[Diddledi]

I am in exactly the same position - going to looking to work after 2nd semester. I think it gives the hsp a chance to get to know you and vice versa. I want to make sure to get some practical experience but not jeopardize my learning experience or grades. I look forward to hearing from more people about how many hours generally is ok while going to school full time.

[ashleyisawesome, BSN, RN]

i do per diem and our only requirement is one weekend + one weekday a month.. and you dont have to do the whole weekend at once. ill usually do a saturday one week, a sunday another, then a monday night or something like that. i only work 8 or 4 hour shifts, im too tired by the end of the week to be doing 12s lol... but my school gives us month long breaks beween semesters so i pick up more shifts during that time.