How to Become a Certified PCT in Missouri (2025)
Becoming a certified patient care technician in Missouri is a fast, affordable way to launch a healthcare career. PCTs provide essential support to nurses and doctors, helping patients with daily care and medical procedures. This guide shows you how to meet the requirements, get certified, and find training programs near you.
Where to Find Classes in Missouri
Dreambound helps you find and compare patient care technician training programs in Missouri.
Explore local options:
Where Does a PCT Work?
Certified patient care technicians in Missouri work in:
- Hospitals and surgical units
- Nursing homes and assisted living facilities
- Rehabilitation centers
- Home healthcare agencies
- Dialysis clinics and outpatient centers
How to Get PCT Certification
Here’s how to earn your pct certification:
- Research Missouri-specific certification rules
- Enroll in a state-approved patient care technician training program
- Study anatomy, patient care, phlebotomy, and EKG
- Complete hands-on clinical hours
- Take and pass the certification exam
- Renew your certification if required
How to Get a Job as a Patient Care Technician
After earning your certification, here’s how to land your first job:
- Update your resume with clinical experience and pct certification
- Search for job openings on hospital career pages and job boards
- Prepare for interviews by reviewing your hands-on skills and patient care approach
- Apply to hospitals, long-term care facilities, dialysis clinics, and outpatient centers
- Consider volunteer or entry-level roles like nursing assistant to gain experience
- Attend local job fairs and network with healthcare professionals
- Keep learning through online CEUs, workshops, and specialized training
Career Paths After Becoming a PCT
Working as a patient care technician gives you multiple options for growth:
- Become a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or registered nurse (RN)
- Earn additional certifications in phlebotomy or EKG
- Transition into medical assisting roles
- Move into healthcare administration or scheduling roles
- Train to become a lead PCT or patient care coordinator
- Continue your education toward becoming a nurse educator or clinical instructor
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a PCT make in Missouri?
Around $35,000 per year, based on experience and facility type.
What certification do I need for PCT?
The CPCT/A from the NHA is the most common. You must complete training and pass the exam.
What state pays PCTs the most?
Washington, California, and Colorado are among the highest-paying states for PCTs.
Is being a PCT stressful?
Yes, it can be physically demanding and emotionally intense, but it’s also highly rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a certified patient care technician in Missouri is one of the quickest and most rewarding paths into healthcare. With less than a year of training, you’ll be ready to support medical teams, care for patients, and grow in your career.
Get started today—explore and enroll in a PCT training program near you on Dreambound.
If you’re curious about other healthcare career paths, check out these resources on Dreambound:
Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.