Can an Enrolled Nurse Become a Nurse’s Assistant or Patient Care Technician?

Many individuals interested in a healthcare career often ask if an enrolled nurse (EN) can be a nurse's assistant (NA) or a patient care technician (PCT). The answer to this question depends on the specific jurisdiction and educational background of the individual. This article aims to clarify the roles and pathways for enrolled nurses seeking to transition into these positions.

Enrolled Nurses and their Pathways

Enrolled nurses are typically individuals who have completed a two-year diploma or certificate program in nursing, but may not have completed a bachelor’s degree (BSN) or have a registered nurse (RN) license. The requirements and opportunities for ENs vary significantly between countries.

Canada and the United States: Unique Scenarios

Canada has different pathways for ENs than the United States. In Canada, an EN can work as a nurse’s aide after completing their year 2 of a BSN program and can then work as an unlicensed practical nurse (RPN) after year 3, under the supervision of an RN.

However, in the United States, becoming a nurse’s assistant or patient care technician for an EN is not straightforward. International ENs who need a visa to work in the U.S. face significant barriers. The American immigration system requires ENs to have a BScN/BN/BSN degree from an accredited university, a valid nursing license, and at least two years of recent nursing experience before being eligible for certain positions.

Steps into the US Healthcare System

For those ENs who do wish to work in the United States, several steps must be taken:

Accredited Degree: Completing a BScN/BN/BSN degree from an accredited university in the U.S. or another English-speaking country with U.S. accreditation. Nursing License: Obtaining a state-issued nursing license after successfully completing a U.S. nursing program. Work Experience: Gaining at least two years of recent nursing experience in the U.S. or another country with similar or higher accreditation standards. Visa Category: Finding a suitable visa category that aligns with the desired role, such as H-1B or L-1 visa for registered nurses.

It's important to note that there are no U.S. visa categories designed specifically for diploma, practical, or auxiliary nurses. While experienced nurses have more opportunities, the process for international ENs can be challenging and may require meticulous planning.

Potential Step-Down Concerns

Now, if an individual is already a nurse, it might seem counterintuitive why they would want to take a step back into an assistant role. Nurse’s assistants and patient care technicians are generally entry-level positions that provide foundational skills and experiences. Some registered nurses (RNs) may choose to work in these roles for various reasons, such as gaining experience, flexibility, or enhancing their understanding of patient care.

For new graduates, these roles serve as valuable training ground, offering practical experience that can be instrumental in their career growth. For experienced nurses, these roles can provide a new perspective on patient care and allow for a shift in focus to a more administrative or supervisory role.

Conclusion

The journey from an enrolled nurse to a nurse’s assistant or patient care technician varies greatly depending on the specific circumstances and goals. While the legal pathways and requirements may pose challenges, the roles offer valuable experiences and opportunities for career growth and development.

For those seeking to enter the U.S. healthcare system as an EN, it is crucial to understand the specific requirements and plan accordingly. For those already in the field, exploring these roles can provide new insights and career options.