Key Points:

• Patient Care Technicians assist nurses in basic patient care; PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) providers focus on emergency pediatric care.
• Patient Care Technicians typically earn less than PALS providers, as PALS requires more specialized training.
• Patient Care Technician roles are more widely available, while PALS providers are in higher demand in pediatric healthcare settings.
• Patient Care Technician training is often completed through vocational programs, while PALS training is done through in-person certification courses.
• Patient Care Technician training is generally less expensive and shorter than the extensive PALS certification process.

The healthcare industry offers a wide range of career opportunities, and it can be overwhelming to choose the right path for you. As a workforce development specialist, I aim to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. In this blog post, we will compare the roles of a Patient Care Technician and a PALS certified professional, highlighting the unique aspects of each profession. By understanding the differences between these two options, you can determine which one aligns best with your career goals and interests.

What is a Patient Care Technician and PALS?

Patient Care Technician (PCT)

A Patient Care Technician, also known as a PCT, is a vital member of the healthcare team. These professionals work under the supervision of nurses and doctors to provide direct patient care in various healthcare settings. Some of the responsibilities of a PCT include:

• Assisting patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating
• Taking vital signs, such as blood pressure and temperature
• Collecting specimens for laboratory testing
• Performing basic medical procedures, such as wound care and catheter insertion
• Monitoring and reporting changes in patient condition to the healthcare team

Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)

Pediatric Advanced Life Support, commonly referred to as PALS, is a specialized certification that focuses on providing critical care to pediatric patients in emergency situations. Professionals with PALS certification are trained to respond to life-threatening emergencies in children, such as cardiac arrest, respiratory distress, and severe trauma. Some of the skills covered in PALS training include:

• Assessing and managing the pediatric airway
• Performing high-quality CPR
• Administering appropriate medications
• Recognizing and treating shock
• Providing effective communication and teamwork during resuscitation efforts

Difference between a Patient Care Technician and PALS

While both Patient Care Technicians and PALS certified professionals work in the healthcare field, there are some key differences between the two roles. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Scope of Practice: Patient Care Technicians have a broader scope of practice and provide general care to patients of all ages. PALS certified professionals, on the other hand, specialize in providing advanced life support specifically to pediatric patients.
• Training Requirements: Becoming a Patient Care Technician typically requires completing a vocational training program or obtaining a certification. PALS certification, on the other hand, is an additional certification that healthcare professionals can pursue after completing their initial training in a related field.
• Job Settings: Patient Care Technicians can work in a variety of healthcare settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. PALS certified professionals often work in emergency departments, pediatric intensive care units, or other specialized pediatric settings.
• Job Responsibilities: While both professions involve providing care to patients, the specific responsibilities may vary. Patient Care Technicians focus on assisting with activities of daily living and performing basic medical procedures, while PALS certified professionals are trained to respond to life-threatening emergencies in pediatric patients.
• Collaboration: Patient Care Technicians work closely with nurses and doctors to provide care to patients. PALS certified professionals also collaborate with a multidisciplinary team during emergency situations, including doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapists.

Patient Care Technician vs PALS: Job Description

Patient Care Technician Job Description

Patient Care Technicians play a crucial role in the healthcare team. They provide direct care to patients and assist with various tasks to ensure their comfort and well-being. Some common job responsibilities of Patient Care Technicians include:

• Assisting patients with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming
• Taking and recording vital signs, such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse
• Collecting specimens for laboratory testing
• Performing basic medical procedures, such as wound care, catheter insertion, and phlebotomy
• Assisting with patient mobility and transfers
• Monitoring and reporting changes in patient condition to the healthcare team

PALS Job Description

Professionals with PALS certification are trained to provide immediate and advanced care to pediatric patients in emergency situations. They play a critical role in resuscitation efforts and ensuring the best possible outcomes for pediatric patients in life-threatening situations. Some common job responsibilities of PALS-certified professionals include:

• Assessing and managing the pediatric airway
• Performing high-quality CPR in accordance with pediatric guidelines
• Administering appropriate medications based on the patient's condition
• Recognizing and treating shock in pediatric patients
• Providing effective communication and teamwork during resuscitation efforts
• Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team to provide optimal care to pediatric patients

Patient Care Technician vs PALS: Education and Training

Patient Care Technician Education and Training

Becoming a Patient Care Technician typically requires completing a vocational training program or obtaining a certification. These programs are available at community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare training centers. The duration of the program can vary, but it generally takes around 6 to 12 months to complete. Some key topics covered in Patient Care Technician training include:

• Basic nursing skills
• Medical terminology
• Anatomy and physiology
• Infection control
• Patient safety and communication
• Clinical skills, such as taking vital signs and performing basic medical procedures

In addition to completing a training program, some states may require Patient Care Technicians to obtain certification. The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) offers the Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) certification, which can enhance job prospects and demonstrate competency in the field.

PALS Education and Training

To become PALS certified, healthcare professionals must first complete their initial training in a related field, such as nursing or emergency medicine. PALS certification is an additional certification that builds upon the foundational knowledge and skills acquired during the initial training. The American Heart Association (AHA) offers PALS certification courses, which are typically one or two days long.

During PALS training, healthcare professionals learn how to respond to pediatric emergencies using a systematic approach. The course covers topics such as pediatric assessment, basic life support, and advanced life support interventions. Participants also have the opportunity to practice their skills in simulated scenarios to enhance their confidence and competence in providing pediatric emergency care.

Patient Care Technician vs PALS: Career Outlook and Salary

Patient Care Technician Career Outlook and Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of nursing assistants and orderlies, which includes Patient Care Technicians, is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029. This growth is faster than the average for all occupations, driven by the aging population and the increased demand for healthcare services.

The median annual wage for nursing assistants, which includes Patient Care Technicians, was $30,850 in May 2020, according to the BLS. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $22,030, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $43,580. The actual salary can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific healthcare setting.

PALS Career Outlook and Salary

PALS certification is often pursued by healthcare professionals who already work in related fields, such as nursing or emergency medicine. Therefore, the career outlook and salary for PALS-certified professionals can vary depending on their primary profession. However, having a PALS certification can enhance job prospects and open up opportunities in specialized pediatric settings, such as pediatric emergency departments or pediatric intensive care units.

According to PayScale, the average salary for individuals with PALS certification is $62,000 per year. However, it's important to note that this figure can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific job role.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career in the healthcare field is an important decision that requires careful consideration. Both Patient Care Technicians and PALS-certified professionals play vital roles in providing care to patients, but they have distinct responsibilities and training requirements. If you have a passion for working with patients of all ages and providing general care, a career as a Patient Care Technician may be a good fit for you. On the other hand, if you have a specific interest in pediatric emergency care and want to specialize in providing advanced life support to pediatric patients, pursuing PALS certification may be the right path for you. Consider your interests, career goals, and the level of training you are willing to undertake to make an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations.

Dreambound has strategically placed its educational programs in various locations, making it easy for aspiring individuals to access valuable opportunities. For a thorough insight into the dynamic realms of these two vocations, we encourage you to delve into more detailed information by visiting:

• Patient Care Technician in Maine
• PALS in Maine
• Patient Care Technician classes near you
• PALS classes near you