Starting my first PCT Job!

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Specializes in ICU.

Hey everyone!

So I'm changing careers after having been a police officer for the past six years. I'm finishing some prerequisite courses and hoping to get into an entry level MSN program and then get my FNP certificate/license. I've had my EMT license because it was relevant to have a police officer, so I recently received a job offer for a PCT position with my EMT license on a med/tele unit. Any tips or suggestions? I'm pretty excited for the opportunity and the learning experience. I have my own stethoscope, is there anything else I need to buy? Scissors? I believe the hospital provides scrubs. I ordered some Nike Air Max shoes, I read they're supposed to be good for nurses (and I'm not really down for the Danskos as a male, haha).

Thanks!!

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I'm changing careers too. I'm in a non-degree LPN program. Almost done with 2nd semester. I just started a PCT/PCA job at a hospital after a year as a CNA at a nursing home. I'm loving it. I've done and observed (clinical skills not just ADL) more in just 5 days than the entire time at the nursing home and LPN clinicals together - I routinely check for blood glucose, remove catheters and IVs, empty different kinds of drainage devices (wound vacs, chest tubes), help with wound dressings, apply intermittent pneumatic compression devices around legs that prevent blood clots, help IV blood infusion (some RNs let me help because they know I'm in an LPN program). It's awesome.

I didn't buy anything, they have all the necessary equipment. I share in your excitement.

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Congratulations, I'm so excited for you!

In regards to gear, I have a pair of trauma scissors as well but that's because I work in the ED. You are going to be on your feet all day so make sure you have shoes that are light, and with good support. I have high arches so I also got inserts for mine. A lot of medical staff also wear compression stocks to help prevent varicose veins as you are more prone to get them in a job where you are on your feet all day.

If your hospital doesn't provide scrubs make sure you always have an extra set to change into if yours get dirty. :p

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