To scramble for experience, or relax?

[datalore]

I'm considering taking a PSS/PCA certification course and applying to LCT and home health agencies, to work this summer and through my RN program (which I'll begin in August). I'm currently working as a supervisor at a retail store while taking a full slate of courses.

I have zero medical experience. Everyone in my courses seems to be a CNA or MA right now, and look at me like I have two heads when I say I work in retail! :-) I'm less self-conscious about their reactions than I am worried that I'll be (the most) lost in clinicals!

The employment rate for graduates of my program is hovering around 100%. Would completing training and finding a PSS/PCA job be overkill at this point? Or would having been a PSS/PCA be a boon when I'm applying for jobs after I graduate (even if just for negotiating starting salary)?

[RubySlippers06]

I would check out your job market. Also, after your health assessment course, you can usually work as a CNA/PCT. That may save you some $$ paying for a program. I'd also try to get a job as a PCT in a hospital vs and LTC facility, unless that is where you want to work after school.

In my area, the hospital will not hire a new grad unless they have been working for them as a PCT. I've been hearing new grads are looking for jobs for 6-9+ months before finding something and a lot of people have to relocate. There are two or three programs in the immediate area and one major hospital Good luck!! I would definitely try to work as a PCT in a hospital if you can swing it.

[Sparrow91]

I would say if you have an opportunity to get one then go for it. Most PCT and CNA jobs require either training or so many semesters worth of nursing school credits. You can start just volunteering at your local hospitals and then once you have the nursing credits that you need you can try for a PCT or CNA position. Also look for opportunities in the summers during nursing school. I was able to do a nursing externship during the summer between my junior and senior year which I found to be very beneficial! Good luck!

[datalore]

Thank you both! This is all good advice, I think will go for the training, try for a hospital job, and keep an eye out for other summer opportunities too. Thanks!!! :)