What Are The Differences Between CNA/PCT? Different PCT Certification?

[mirandaaa]

Hello!

I have a current CNA license that I've had for about 5 years. I was employed full-time for about 3 years and then 2 years ago I took a step back out of the CNA work d/t finding a better-paying office job and better hours.

I'm planning on starting nursing school in the fall and this will require me to get back onto the healthcare horse due to availability and needing something more flexible, and frankly I've really missed working in healthcare.

The catch is that I do not want to return to working in LTC. I'm completely burnt out on the LTC aspect of being a CNA, so I've been looking at hospital jobs. Most hospital jobs I've found have been looking for PCTs, rather than CNAs. I'm just wondering, what is the difference between the two? Is a PCT certification required (even if having a valid CNA certification)? If so, has anyone had good experience with an online certification?

Thanks!

[mirandaaa]

Knowing someone that is already employed at the hospital is a big plus. That's how I got my job as PCT, as it seems it is common practice for hospitals to hire someone that knows employees there already. Good luck, with your background as CNA, and starting nursing school, you have a good chance of getting that job you want.

It turns out I have 5 RN friends who currently work there and on different units (all of which I applied for) so maybe I'll get lucky!

Thank you again!

[AlwaysLearning247, BSN]

Patient care tech doesn't have to be licensed. A CNA has to be licensed/have certification. I work in the hospital and they do not make the nursing assistants have licenses. At the nursing home I needed a license.

[cdsavannah59, CNA]

Patient care tech doesn't have to be licensed. A CNA has to be licensed/have certification. I work in the hospital and they do not make the nursing assistants have licenses. At the nursing home I needed a license.

To be a PCT at the hospital I work they require a PCT certificate or college transcript to show you have completed the program, as well as a current CNA certificate, and current CPR Certified.

[WCSU1987]

Most hospitals in my area will hire CNAs to become Multi Skilled Techs. Could still take a course though. There are so many variants such as where you work. Example most do AccuCheks, EKGs, and blood work in addition to CNA work.

Not sure ever seen them do IVs or change a catheter. However, I know some hospitals train techs in highly critical area's. One was a critical care unit had to take an exam after 90 day's differentiating different heart rhytms. Also MA position stated will train to do IV. Rare in my state, but outside of hospital some facilities will train you in IV.