Dreambound
Blog

5 Steps to Become a Patient Care Technician

blog photo

Want personalized insights?

Let Skipper help you discover new career pathways

coach

If you're considering a career as a Patient Care Technician, this guide will explain what the job entails, the steps to become one, and the promising career outlook in this growing field. With the healthcare industry continually evolving, the demand for compassionate and skilled PCTs is on the rise.

Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

  • Similarities: Both provide direct patient care like assisting with daily living tasks (bathing, dressing), collecting vital signs, and reporting patient conditions.
  • Differences: CNAs often work in long-term care facilities, may have more direct patient care duties, and might require additional certification (depending on the state).

You can explore our guide on becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and delve deeper into this career.

Phlebotomy Technician

  • Similarities: Both perform phlebotomy (drawing blood samples). PCTs might do this alongside other duties, while Phlebotomists specialize solely in blood draws.
  • Differences: Phlebotomists typically work in labs or clinics, require specific phlebotomy certification, and focus solely on blood collection with a higher volume of patients.

If you are considering a career in phlebotomy, check out our guide to becoming a phlebotomy technician to get started on this path.

Final thoughts

Becoming a patient care technician is a rewarding journey that leads to a fulfilling career. Whether you're drawn to the role by the desire to help others, the potential for personal growth, or the opportunity for career advancement, the path to becoming a PCT is well-defined and accessible. If you're interested in taking this journey, be sure to check out the Patient Care Technician classes near you and embark on your PCT journey today.

If you're considering pursuing this certification in a different location, we have other in-depth guides to help. Check out our guides for different cities below:

Looking for online education that's on your terms? See these guides:

Jessa Guzon
Written by
Jessa Guzon

Jessa Guzon is a member of the School Growth and Customer Success Team in Dreambound. She finds joy in assisting both schools and students in reaching their goals by answering their queries and connecting them with the right people. Outside her professional role, Jessa is a happy-go-lucky person with a thirst for adventure.

Share this post: