Working as a PCT/CNA before graduating

[shonniemurphy]

I wasn't sure where to post this but I did want advise from nurses. I currently work as a patient care tech at a hospital in the Chicago area. I am in my senior year of nursing school as well. I have worked at this hospital for 6 months and really don't see myself working as an RN there, although I would never rule it out! My question is, how important is it to finding a nursing job after graduation, to keep this job as a PCT? My workload at school is getting more strenuous as they are now requiring NCLEX prep along with our nursing classes. I do not want to let my grades slip as school is my priority right now. I constantly dread going in to work and stress myself out about it each day I am scheduled. I don't however want to alter my chances at an RN position when I graduate due to the fact I am not working in a hospital environment. What have you seen or experienced with this? I would appreciate any advice. I also didn't mention that I am 40+ years old so I already feel at a disadvantage trying to be hired as a new grad. Thank you everyone!

[Pangea Reunited, ASN, RN]

My hospital has passed over several really good CNAs after they graduated from nursing school. It's an employer's market, and their jobs and good reputations didn't help them shut out the more experienced competition.

How is the market where you're at? That's what it comes down to...

You might also consider asking to work per diem and staying on one or two days a month.

[shonniemurphy]

Thanks! For the most part there seems to be plenty of nursing jobs, I just don't know how many of them are willing to train a new grad. I did just go registry/per diem but if it isn't necessary, I would rather devote all my time studying and preparing for NCLEX. I certainly don't want to hurt my chances though.