Patient Care Technician (PCT)
Entry level education: High school diploma or equivalent
Projected 10-year growth: 5% from 2021 to 2031
Number of jobs: 1,389,900 (2021)
Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) are healthcare professionals who provide basic patient care under the supervision of a licensed nurse or physician. They work in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings, and their job duties may include monitoring vital signs, assisting with personal care, administering medication, performing basic laboratory tests, and assisting with medical procedures.
PCTs must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as they work closely with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals. They must also have a strong attention to detail and be able to follow strict protocols and procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of their patients. To become a PCT, individuals may need to complete a formal training program and obtain certification or licensure, depending on state requirements.
How much do Patient Care Technicians make? >>
What is the Curriculum in a Patient Care Technician program? >>
What is the Job Forecast for Patient Care Technicians? >>
Patient Care Technician Certifications >>
How Much does it Cost to go to Patient Care Technician School? >>
Financial Aid for Patient Care Technician Programs >>
Scholarships for Patient Care Technician Programs >>
What Will My Duties Be As a Patient Care Technician? >>
What Are 5 Different Types of Patient Care Technicians? >>
How to become a Patient Care Technician in 8 steps >>
20 Reasons to Start a Patient Care Program >>
12 things to look for when choosing a Patient Care Technician school >>
What Skills Are Required to Become a Patient Care Technician? >>
How Do I Know If becoming a Patient Care Technician Is Right For Me? >>
What is the Difference between a certified nurse assistant and a Patient Care Technician? >>
A Day In the Life of a Patient Care Technician >>
Why Should I Choose An Online Patient Care Technician Program? >>
Find Accredited Patient Care Technician Schools Near You >>
What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Patient Care Technician? >>
What are the Requirements for Starting a Patient Care Technician Program? >>
How Long Does it Take to Become a Patient Care Technician? >>
Additional Career Paths for Patient Care Technician Programs >>
How Much Do Patient Care Technicians Make?
The salary for Patient Care Technicians can vary depending on location, experience, and other factors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for nursing assistants, which includes Patient Care Technicians, was $31,410 as of May 2020.
What is the Curriculum in a Patient Care Technician Program?
The curriculum in a Patient Care Technician program typically covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, infection control, patient care skills, vital sign monitoring, phlebotomy, electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring, and basic laboratory procedures. The program may also include clinical rotations or hands-on training in a healthcare setting to provide practical experience in patient care.
What is the Job Forecast for Patient Care Technicians?
The job forecast for Patient Care Technicians is highly promising, with an increased demand for their services due to factors such as an aging population, the prevalence of chronic conditions, and a growing emphasis on home healthcare and patient-centered care.
Patient Care Technician Certifications
What Are the Benefits of Getting a Patient Care Technician Certification?
What Is the Patient Care Technician Certification Process?
What Do I Need to Know About the Certification Exam for Patient Care Technicians?
What Are The Best Patient Care Technician Certifications?
How Can I Prepare For the Patient Care Technician Certification Exam?
How Much does it Cost to go to Patient Care Technician School?
The cost of attending patient care technician school can vary depending on factors such as the type of program, the length of the program, and the location of the school. . Find out more about these costs.
Financial Aid for Patient Care Technician Programs
Financial aid for Patient Care Technician (PCT) programs may be available through various sources such as federal and state grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and student loans. Eligibility for financial aid depends on factors such as income, academic standing, and program enrollment status.
Scholarships for Patient Care Technician Programs
There are various scholarships available for aspiring patient care technicians, such as those offered by healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and private foundations. These scholarships typically cover the cost of tuition, books, and other educational expenses, and may be awarded based on factors such as academic achievement, financial need, and career goals.
What Will My Duties Be As A Patient Care Technician?
Patient Care Technicians provide basic care to patients under the supervision of healthcare professionals. Their duties include assisting patients with daily activities, monitoring vital signs, performing basic medical procedures, and documenting patient care.
12 things to look for when choosing a Patient Care Technician school
When choosing a PCT school, consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum, faculty, program duration, clinical experience, and student support services. Evaluating these aspects can help ensure that the school meets your needs and prepares you for a successful career as a Patient Care Technician.
What Skills Are Required to Become a Patient Care Technician?
To become a patient care technician, one must possess skills such as communication, empathy, attention to detail, physical endurance, and ability to follow instructions.
how do I know if Becoming Patient Care Technician is Right for me?
If you are interested in pursuing a career as a PCT, here are some factors to consider to help you decide if it’s the right path for you.
What is the Difference between a certified nurse assistant and a Patient Care Technician?
While both Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) provide basic care to patients, PCTs have additional responsibilities such as performing basic medical procedures, documenting patient care, and assisting with mobility.
A Day In the Life of a Patient Care Assistant
A day in the life of a PCT typically involves assisting patients with activities of daily living, monitoring vital signs, administering medication under supervision, and communicating with healthcare team members.
Why Should I Choose An Online Patient Care Technician Program?
Choosing an online PCT program can offer flexibility in scheduling, convenience, and the ability to learn at your own pace from anywhere with an internet connection.
Find Accredited Patient Care Technician Schools Near You
See which schools in your state offer patient care technician programs.
What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Patient care technician?
Becoming a Patient Care Technician can be a rewarding career choice for those interested in healthcare. It provides opportunities to work closely with patients, make a difference in their lives, and potentially advance in the healthcare field.
What are the Requirements for Starting a Patient Care Technician Program?
The requirements to start a PCT program typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, passing a criminal background check, and meeting the program’s health and immunization requirements. Depending on the program, additional requirements may also be needed.
Becoming a patient care technician typically takes a few months of training, depending on the program and state requirements. The training usually consists of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical practice.
Additional Career Paths for Patient Care Technician Programs
Completing a patient care technician program can provide you with a foundation of knowledge and skills that can be applied to a variety of careers in the healthcare industry.