RN working as a PCT

SoldierNurse22, BSN, RN · May 30, 2014

I don't know that it's illegal, but most facilities prohibit it due to liability reasons.

The key word being facilities. If they think it's dangerous, you might reconsider your decision to continue working as a PCT. You now have a nursing license to balance.

Contact your BON to be sure.

applesxoranges, BSN, RN · May 30, 2014

My system will not let RNs work in PCT spots. Does your manager know that you passed your boards? If not, I would let them know because they may let you go but it is better in this case not to let them find out accidentally. The exception is if an RN is floated to a PCT spot.

WannaBNursey, ADN, ASN, RN · May 30, 2014

I've had my RN for 3 weeks and have been working as a CNA in the hospital, I was offered an interview, but I wasn't told I had to take the position or quit! We've also had an LPN who worked for 3 months after she was licensed as a CNA/unit secretary because they wouldn't hire LPN's at the hospital.

MBrickle · May 30, 2014

Even if it is allowed, it's important to know that you will be held to the standard of your license.

For example, if you walk into a room to take a patient to the bathroom and you notice their color is a bit off or their breathing is a bit more labored, etc. it would be your responsibility as a nurse to follow the appropriate channels and if the patient decompensated to the point they wound up in ICU or passed away, it's possible that someone could point the finger saying that you were a nurse and therefore had the responsibility to see the status changes even though you were working in a PCA capacity.

This is why many hospitals don't let this happen. If yours does, I suggest a great malpractice insurance that includes a lawyer (because if push comes to shove, the hospitals lawyer won't really be working in your best interest) and report any and all status changes you note and remember that you will be held to the standard of a nurse and act accordingly.

eukaryote · May 31, 2014

I would say that it depends on the area you live in and the facility's policy. In my area, it's common for new grad RN's to work as a PCT for up to a year after licensing before securing a new grad position - it's a very competitive area. I did this in fact. I wouldn't recommend it though. Working as a PCT has a different set of priorities. It's a good way to get used to the floor and to handling a busy acute care patient load, but you will lose your critical thinking skills quickly. So, if you do it - do it for only a short period (3 months or so) or not at all. It's also difficult not to cross boundaries, because as a trained nurse you will still think like a nurse and want to act accordingly.

amoLucia · May 31, 2014

I STRONGLY second the posting by MBrickle, esp the part about your malpractice insurance. Get your carrier's input re your situation because if there is ever a problem ...

JessRNBSN · Jun 27, 2014

Thanks for the advice everyone! Fortunately that's not gonna be a concern for me anymore cuz I've finally landed my first RN job!!! I got hired in the CVICU where I work!! Woo hoo!!