Key Points

• What is a Patient Care Technician? A Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a multi-skilled healthcare worker who provides direct patient care, including CNA duties plus technical skills like drawing blood and performing EKGs.
• How to become a Patient Care Technician in Pennsylvania? To become a PCT in Pennsylvania, you must first complete a state-approved Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, then complete additional training in EKG and phlebotomy to earn a national PCT certification.
• Length of training for a Patient Care Technician: The full training path (CNA + PCT skills) can be completed in as little as 3 to 9 months.
• Average Patient Care Technician salary in Pennsylvania: The median salary for PCTs (grouped with Nursing Assistants) in Pennsylvania is approximately $40,500 per year.
• Number of employment of Patient Care Technicians in Pennsylvania: As of May 2024, there were approximately 105,200 Nursing Assistants employed in Pennsylvania.

What is Patient Care Technician?

A Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a vital member of the nursing team, most often found in hospitals and critical care settings. Think of a PCT as an advanced CNA. They handle all the core responsibilities of a Certified Nursing Assistant—like personal care and monitoring vital signs—but they are also trained in more advanced clinical skills. This multi-skilled role makes them incredibly versatile and valuable in a fast-paced medical environment.

What does a Patient Care Technician do?

• Measure and record vital signs
• Assist with hygiene and mobility
• Collect specimens for lab testing
• Provide emotional support to patients
• Monitor and report changes in a patient’s condition

Where Do Patient Care Technicians Work?

While CNAs are most common in long-term care, PCTs are in high demand in acute care settings. In Pennsylvania, you'll find them working in:

• Hospitals: This is the primary work environment for PCTs, especially in Emergency Departments, Intensive Care Units (ICUs), and surgical floors.
• Outpatient Clinics: Larger specialty clinics, like cardiology or dialysis centers, employ PCTs.
• Rehabilitation Centers: Assisting patients recovering from surgery or major medical events.
• Plasma Donation Centers: Performing phlebotomy and monitoring donors.

How to Become a Certified PCT in Pennsylvania?

1. Meet Eligibility Requirements

In Pennsylvania, you’ll need to have a high school diploma or GED and undergo a background check. Some employers may also require up-to-date immunizations or CPR certification.

2. Enroll in a Patient Care Technician Training Program

PCT training programs in Pennsylvania are often offered by vocational schools, community colleges, and healthcare training centers. These programs typically take 4 to 6 weeks to complete and combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical practice.

3. Earn Your Certification

After completing your training, you’ll need to pass a nationally recognized certification exam. Two common options include:

• CPCT/A (NHA - National Healthcareer Association)

• CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant)

These exams test your knowledge of patient care procedures, safety protocols, and clinical tasks.

How to Get a Patient Care Technician Certification in Pennsylvania

Visit the certifying organization’s website, register for the exam, and prepare using your training materials. Most exams consist of multiple-choice questions and a skills demonstration.

4. Apply for Patient Care Technician Jobs

Once certified, begin your job search. Use sites like MyNextMove.org to explore local job opportunities and employment trends. Tailor your resume to highlight hands-on experience, technical skills, and patient care knowledge.

How to Get a Patient Care Technician Job in Pennsylvania

• Network with local healthcare professionals

• Apply through job boards and hospital HR sites

• Follow up after interviews and showcase your certification and any clinical externships

5. Advance Your Education

PCTs can use this role as a stepping stone to more advanced careers in healthcare. Many go on to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Registered Nurses (RNs), or even specialize in areas like phlebotomy or EKG technology.

Requirements to Become a Patient Care Technician in Pennsylvania

To get hired for a professional PCT role at a top hospital in Pennsylvania, you'll need to meet these standard requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have a high school diploma or a GED.
• Hold an active CNA Certification: Most PCT programs in Pennsylvania require you to be a Certified Nursing Assistant before you can enroll.
• Hold a CPR/BLS Certification: A Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association is mandatory.
• Pass Background Checks: You must pass a criminal background check (Act 114), a child abuse clearance, and a drug screening.