quick question....

[futureRN09]

Hi everyone,

I have a quick question for anyone who can help me. My sister recently told me that she would like to become a CNA or PCA, and wants to know how she can go about doing that? What is the difference between the two and which one provides a better income?

Any info or input is greatly appreciated.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

CNA = certified nurse assistant. PCT = patient care assistant. In my state the CNA certification is good at every facility state-wide. A PCT is trained by the facility and that training may not be transferable. I would contact the HR of a hospital or contact local community colleges to learn who offers this training. Your state may have a website for CNA's. Many hospitals pay the CNA and PCT the same, but some will pay the CNA more (another question for the HR dept.). Both require a high school diploma or GED. The CNA is extremely important in caring for the patient. Hope your sister has good luck with this career choice!

[hikernurse]

Although it can mean different things in different places, essentially the job is the same--and pays the same; at least in my neighborhood. Often, a PCT is a nursing school student who might not be a certified nursing assistant.

I'd call HR of a local hospital and ask who teaches these classes. I did that and the person I talked with was very knowledgable. Community colleges are also another option; some offer a CNA class.

One thing to think about; hospital jobs are harder to come by than LTC jobs; here they prefer to hire nursing students or aides who have experience.

Have your sister look around, though, because I've seen wide variances in the price of these classes.