What Are PCTs and CNAs?

PCTs and CNAs work under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN). They help patients with their activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, grooming, eating, and taking vital signs. They are also responsible for communicating with the healthcare team, making patients comfortable, and complying with confidentiality laws.

CNAs focus on primary care, while PCTs provide more advanced care. The latter can perform EKG and assists during rehabilitation and in administering medications.

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What Does a PCT or a CNA Do?

PCTs have a broader scope of duties and responsibilities than CNAs. They can perform all the same tasks a CNA does, yet, has extra skills and procedures that a CNA doesn’t. Take a look at the list below of the duties and responsibilities for PCTs and CNAs.

Duties and Responsibilities of a CNA

• Assist with the ADLs of patients, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and feeding.

• Take and record vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse.

• Monitor patients' health status and report any changes to the nursing staff.

• Perform basic nursing procedures such as wound care, catheterization, and collection of specimens.

• Provide support to patients with mobility issues, including turning and positioning them in bed and transferring them to chairs or wheelchairs.

• Maintain patient comfort and safety by ensuring clean and organized patient rooms and equipment.

• Respond to patient calls and requests promptly.

• Assist with the admission, discharge, and transfer of patients.

Duties and Responsibilities of a PCT

• Assist with the ADLs of patients, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and feeding.

• Take and record vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse.

• Monitor patients' health status and report any changes to the nursing staff.

• Dispense particular medication

• Perform basic nursing procedures such as wound care, catheterization, and collection of specimens.

• Perform phlebotomy (blood draws)

• Operate medical equipment such as EKG machines and dialysis machines

• Provide respiratory care such as administering nebulizer treatments and performing chest physiotherapy.

• Provide support to patients with mobility issues, including turning and positioning them in bed and transferring them to chairs or wheelchairs.

• Maintain patient comfort and safety by ensuring clean and organized patient rooms and equipment.

• Respond to patient calls and requests promptly.

• Assist with the admission, discharge, and transfer of patients.

The exact duties and responsibilities of a PCT and a CNA may vary depending on their level of training and the policies and regulations of the healthcare facility they work in. With all the tasks mentioned above, it’s essential to remember that any invasive procedures, such as inserting IVs and administering medications, must be under the direction and supervision of a licensed nurse.

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What Do I Need to Enroll in a PCT or a CNA Program?

The training requirements for both vocations vary per state, but basic ones may include a High School diploma or equivalent, proof of U.S. residency, and passing a background check with fingerprinting.

Some states need PCTs to have all or some of the following:

• Prior CNA certification;

• Current cardiopulmonary resuscitation/basic life support (CPR/BLS) certification;

• Proof of vaccines such as the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), hepatitis B, and tetanus;

• Pass a physical exam, and

• A minimum level of English proficiency

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Differences Between CNA and PCT Training

The cost and duration of training for PCTs and CNAs depend on the length of the program and location. Generally, the cost and duration of PCT training are higher than that of CNA.

Depending on the institution, PCT courses can cost anywhere from $950 to $5,000. The course may range from about 24 to 32 weeks to complete. While the CNA training is much more affordable and costs around $600-$2,300. There are CNA fast-track courses that take about 4-8 weeks to complete.

The state exam fee for both costs around $125 but varies per state.

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How Do I Get Certified as a PCT or CNA?

To become a PCT, you will need training in the specialized skills required for this position. The training can be through community colleges, vocational schools, or the healthcare facility you work for may train you on the job. You don't need to take the PCT certification exam if you already have a CNA certification unless your facility or state requires it. Yet, it is encouraged as it exhibits your knowledge and competency in the field.

Various certifying organizations for PCTs include the National Care for Competency Testing the American Medical Certification Association and the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The exam includes 100-150 questions and a practical section on essential skills, depending on the organization you take your certification through.

Certain states require a CNA certification to be a PCT. To get your CNA certification, you may complete the training and pass the certification exam. Depending on your state's requirements, you may also qualify to sit for the CNA certification exam if you’re currently in a PCT program.

CNAs and CPCTs (Certified PCTs) must renew their license regularly through their state or national certification supplier. The amount of time before renewal and the amount of hours worked in that time may vary depending on state and regulation requirements.

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