Phlebotomy and/or EKG tech cert before starting nursing school?

[Reebles]

Anyone have any input on becoming a Phlebotomy or EKG tech before starting Nursing school? I was accepted to SFSU in the Fall and will start in August, but wondering if becoming a Phlebotomy tech or EKG tech would be beneficial before starting school.

Thanks,

Reanna

[sheilam]

That's a great question! I start nursing school next Spring, so if others recommend this, I would love to know as well.

Thanks for posting it, Reebles.

[KtHospiceRNCM]

I will be starting my AD Nursing Program in Aug also. I asked a Nursing Student (my husband's cousin actually) this same question last week. She said that there was a girl in her class that did take a Phlebotomy class and is very good at starting IV's so it has given her an edge in that area since they spend very little time and little/no clinical time on sticks.

I decided not to take the course prior to starting the nursing program, I will take it between 2nd & 3rd semester if I feel I need it. Hopefully that decision will prove to be a good one.. =) I am however, taking a Medical Terminology course this summer even though that is not required. That can do nothing but help!!

[cokeforbreakfast]

I am a December 08 grad with 5+ years phlebotomy experience, EKG experience, X ray experience, and experience as a surgical first assistant and NONE of these have helped me get a job (yet).

My advice is to work as a CNA or PCA (or any other position you can get) at a facility where you hope to work once you become a nurse. Many facilities are holding RN spots for their former CNA's who are about to graduate. I was told I will not even be considered for open positions at one facility for this reason.

Also, choose your capstone/internship wisely and, if need be, fight for a spot in a facility where you'd like to work following graduation. You'll increase your odds exponentially!

Learn from my mistakes! :)