To CNA first and add on...or just go for PCT program?

[cdaugherty]

Hi, Im 23 and a student finishing up my AA to move on to eventually be a physicians assistant. In the meantime I need a job. I see all these programs for PCT and CNA and Im pretty sure i have the difference. Heres my dillema

Do I:

1. Take the short course and become a CNA, then get my phlebotomy and EKG and whatever else I can put under my belt and then try and get a job. (pros-much shorter time period for the CNA but a little more than that for the phlebotomy and EKG-less money spent-approx $1200 total for all)

2. Take the PCT course offered at my local tech school, which dosent include phlebotomy anyway (CNA, EKG and HHA certs only) which will take about 4-6 months. (more time, more money--about $2000 total)

Is having my diploma from the school that says Im a PCT worth all that much more?

School starts soon and Ive wracked my brain and I dont know what to do. I need advice here! Help!

[Karl Farmer]

If your goal is PA why are you going for an AA rather than LPN, or or ADN?

[MollNick]

Have you actually inquired with employers whether or not they need a PCT that can do phlebotomy and EKG's? Many employers do not allow PCT's do phlebotomy and also many hospitals have a EKG department. I think this all depends on what state you are in and the size of the hospital.

What you might think about doing is calling HR to hospitals and ask to be connected to the manager of telemetry or med-surg and tell the manager where you are at and where you want to go in your education and ask if there are any open positions for a PCT? If the manager tells you that you need a certain type of training then they may be able to direct you to where you might be able to get the training that is not so expensive. Also, some hospitals have PCT training available. You could also check with skilled/long-term care facilities or home health. If an employer needs a PCT bad enough, they may train you themselves.