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.

What is a Patient Care Technician (PCT)?

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.

Requirements for PCT Training

To enroll in an online PCT program, students typically need to meet the following requirements:

1. High school diploma or GED equivalent.
2. Basic computer literacy and access to a reliable internet connection.
3. Certain programs may require students to undergo a background check and provide proof of immunizations.

Where to find online Patient Care Technician classes

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. Some reputable training providers to explore include:

CareerStep Patient Care Technician Online Program

• Fully online, learn on your terms.
• 12 months of access including CPCT/A, CPT, and CET certification preparation materials
• Includes 100-hour externship
• Cost: $3,799
• Not available in all states

MedCerts Online Patient Technician class

• Fully online, at your own schedule 24/7
• In-person externship matching is done after class
• Cost: $4,000 total, loans and WIOA funding may be available
• Not available in all states

What do I learn in an online PCT class?

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:

• Basic medical terminology and anatomy
• Patient care techniques (bathing, feeding, repositioning)
• Vital signs monitoring
• Infection control and safety procedures
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Medical documentation and record-keeping

Many online programs also include virtual simulations and interactive learning tools to provide hands-on training experiences.

Frequently asked questions

Do online PCT students need to complete in-person clinical training?

Yes, most programs require students to complete clinical rotations and hands-on training at approved healthcare facilities in addition to online coursework.

Where to get certification?

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).

Is certification required after completing a PCT program?

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.

Where do PCTs work?

PCTs can find employment in various healthcare settings, including:

• Hospitals
• Nursing homes/long-term care facilities
• Outpatient clinics/physician offices
• Rehabilitation centers
• Home healthcare services

PCTs play crucial roles in supporting nursing staff, assisting with patient care duties, performing basic procedures, and ensuring patient comfort across these different environments.

What is the salary of a PCT?

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.

What career options are available after becoming a PCT?

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:

• Nursing (Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nursing)
• Medical Laboratory Technician
• Radiologic Technologist
• Respiratory Therapist

Continuing education and professional development can open up diverse career opportunities within the healthcare industry.

PCT vs CMA (Certified Medical Assistant)

Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) and Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) are both allied health professionals, but their roles differ:

• CMAs typically work in outpatient settings, such as physician offices and clinics, performing administrative and clinical tasks.
• PCTs are primarily employed in hospitals and long-term care facilities, focusing on direct patient care and support services.

Patient Care Technician classes by city

• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Akron
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Albany
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Albuquerque
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Allentown
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Atlanta
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Augusta
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Austin
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Bakersfield
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Baltimore
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Baton Rouge
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Birmingham
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Boise City
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Boston
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Bridgeport
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Buffalo
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Cape Coral
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Charleston
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Charlotte
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Chicago
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Cincinnati
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Cleveland
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Colorado Springs
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Columbia
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Columbus
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Dallas/Fort Worth
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Dayton
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Deltona
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Denver
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Des Moines
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Detroit
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Durham
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in El Paso
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Fresno
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Grand Rapids
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Greensboro
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Greenville
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Harrisburg
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Hartford
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Houston
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Indianapolis
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Jackson
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Jacksonville
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Kansas City
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Knoxville
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Lakeland
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Las Vegas
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Little Rock
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Los Angeles
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Louisville/Jefferson County
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Madison
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in McAllen
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Memphis
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Miami
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Milwaukee
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Minneapolis
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Nashville
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in New Haven
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in New Orleans
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in New York
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in North Port
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Ogden
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Oklahoma City
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Omaha
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Orlando
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Oxnard
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Palm Bay
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Philadelphia
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Phoenix
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Pittsburgh
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Portland
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Poughkeepsie
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Providence
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Provo
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Raleigh
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Richmond
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Rochester
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Sacramento
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Salt Lake City
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in San Antonio
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in San Bernardino/Riverside
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in San Diego
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in San Francisco
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in San Jose
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Scranton
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Seattle
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Spokane
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Springfield
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in St. Louis
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Stockton
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Syracuse
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Tampa
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Toledo
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Tucson
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Tulsa
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Urban Honolulu
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Virginia Beach
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Washington
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Wichita
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Winston
• Patient Care Technician schools near me in Worcester

Final Thoughts

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.

• How to Become a Certified PCT in Connecticut
• How to Become a Certified PCT in Illinois
• How to Become a Certified PCT in Minnesota
• How to Become a Certified PCT in Rhode Island
• How to Become a Certified PCT in South Dakota

Thinking about a potential career transition? Dreambound offers detailed guides to help you with making an informed decision. Dive in below:

• PALS Training in El Paso
• Veterinary Assistant Training in Jacksonville
• Healthcare Operator Training in Sacramento
• Registered Nurse Training in San Jose
• Respiratory Therapist Training in Stockton