Senior Madison Lisle’s alarm goes off at 8 a.m. on a warm summer morning. Instead of going on a fun summer trip or to relax with her friends, she heads to class. Lisle received her certification to become a Certified Nursing Assistant, CNA, and a Patient Care Technician, PCT, this past summer.
“It definitely wasn’t easy,” said Lisle,” but now that I look back, I’m glad I stuck to it. It’s a huge sense of accomplishment.”
A CNA can do the direct and indirect care of patients and can work in hospitals. They normally will be hired in long-term care facilities. A PCT can draw blood and do a few upscale procedures like removing IVs and stitches under the supervision of an RN and work in hospitals.
“I absolutely love it,” said Lisle. “This job takes a lot of time and patience and sometimes it’s not the most fun job. But you’re there to help people. That’s what the medical field is about.”
Lisle started May 29 and finished four weeks later when she was earning her CNA certification. Her PCT class started July 10 and finished five weeks later. These certifications will put Lisle ahead in her process to start a career in the medical field.
“I have always considered going into the medical field, and honestly, getting these certifications is like the first step,” said Lisle. “It gives me experience in the medical field. I get to see first hand what it’s like to work in the hospital.”
Lisle met people who she can use as references and who share the same interests as her while going to these classes. She made a lot of friends, worked with many patients, and met all sorts of different people. Lisle believes that was the best thing to happen because of her certification.
“The experience was amazing, and I can’t wait to get a job,” said Lisle.
One downfall to this process would be not getting a job. Lisle believes though that if you’re persistent you will find a job. That if you’re interested in going into the medical field, it’ll never hurt to get certified.
“After spending practically my whole summer in school and working, I feel I am much more driven and focused,” said Lisle. “I know what I want and I plan to get it, no matter what the obstacles.”
