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Patient Care Technician
Patient Care Technicians are healthcare professionals who provide hands-on care to patients in various medical settings. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, you may be wondering if taking Patient Care Technician classes online is a viable option. In this blog post, we will help you find the right online Patient Care Technician classes and learn about potential career opportunities after obtaining PCT certification.
A Patient Care Technician (PCT), also known as a Patient Care Assistant or Hospital Assistant, is an allied health professional who provides basic care and support services for patients in various healthcare facilities. PCTs work under the direct supervision of nurses and play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being and comfort of patients. They do similar tasks with CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) but are also trained to perform basic EKGs and phlebotomy tasks.
To enroll in an online PCT program, students typically need to meet the following requirements:
When selecting an online program, it's essential to ensure that the institution is accredited and recognized by relevant healthcare organizations. With Dreambound, you can easily find online classes near you and choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences. Let’s hear what one of our students, Terri Rogers, has to say:
Dreambound helps you understand school features to choose the right one for you.
Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs. We have 367 patient care technician classes available and some reputable training providers to explore include:
If you're looking for other online class options, you can check these resources:
Online PCT programs cover a comprehensive curriculum to prepare students for their roles and responsibilities as patient care technicians. The coursework typically includes both theoretical and practical components, covering subjects such as:
Many online programs also include virtual simulations and interactive learning tools to provide hands-on training experiences.
Yes, most programs require students to complete clinical rotations and hands-on training at approved healthcare facilities in addition to online coursework.
After completing the online coursework and any required clinical training, you will need to prepare for the certification exam. The certification exam is typically administered by a recognized certification organization, such as the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT).
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While certification is not required in all states, most employers prefer or require Patient Care Technicians to be certified by passing an exam from the NHA or NCCT. Certification demonstrates competency.
PCTs can find employment in various healthcare settings, including:
PCTs play crucial roles in supporting nursing staff, assisting with patient care duties, performing basic procedures, and ensuring patient comfort across these different environments.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for Nursing Assistants and Orderlies (which includes PCTs) in 2023 was $38,130. However, salaries can vary based on the geographic location, employer (hospital, clinic, etc.), level of experience, and specific job responsibilities.
Obtaining a PCT certification can serve as a stepping stone to further career advancement in the healthcare field. Many PCTs use their experience and education as a foundation to pursue additional certifications or degree programs, such as:
Continuing education and professional development can open up diverse career opportunities within the healthcare industry.
Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) and Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) are both allied health professionals, but their roles differ:
Obtaining an online Patient Care Technician certification is a great way to pursue a rewarding career in healthcare. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that you are on the right path to becoming a certified PCT. Remember to choose a reputable online program, meet the program's prerequisites, complete the coursework and training, and prepare for and pass the certification exam.
Dreambound has put together numerous guides to help you navigate the certification process in this field, tailored for various locations. For insights into the process or requirements in different states, see some of our additional guides below.
Vduani Martinez is a part of the Growth team at Dreambound. She creates and fixes workflows and automation to guarantee seamless operations. On top of that, she manages databases to ensure all information is up to date. Vduani is a licensed Electronics Engineer who loves coffee and is a travel enthusiast. Out of the office, she enjoys going on road trips and discovering new cafes and restaurants.