Definition & Purpose
The Patient Care Technicians (PCT) possess a bundle of skills to provide direct patient care under the supervision of nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals. Patient Care Technician skills include phlebotomy, performing electrocardiograms (EKGs), urinary catheterization, glucose monitoring, recording vital signs and other various bedside patient care skills. The Patient Care Technician may also be referred to as nurses’ assistant, CNA, health care assistant and nurse aide depending on the facility and nature of the organization. The Patient Care Technician helps patients that need special care while they are in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation clinics, assisted living facilities etc. Common tasks that PCT’s perform are assisting patients with getting out of bed, eating, bathing , supervising medicine intake, do range of motion exercises, transferring patients to and from wheelchair, assist with ambulation etc.
Patient Care Technicians perform a variety of tasks. Components of treatment procedures performed by these workers, under the direction and supervision of nurses, involve exercises, administration of medicine, feeding patients, bedside care, hot and cold packs, bathing and transferring patients.
In addition to lecture this program offers students practical exercises in the laboratory and with job experience during the clinical portion of training conducted off-campus at medical facilities.
Employment is found in hospitals and some outpatient settings.
Job opportunities are good. The role of the patient care technician continues to evolve and expand. The position also is a path to a nursing career.
Patient Care Technicians may earn between $20,000 - $36,000 annually
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This course prepares you for the following certification exams:
- (CPCT / CPCA / CNT): Certified Patient Care Technician / Patient Care Associate / Nurse Technician
- Please visit the official NHA website for the latest certification information
Inquire about the Patient Care Technician course now
Chicago: (312) 920-8822
Oak Brook: (630) 705-9999
- High School Diploma or G.E.D equivalent