Passionate about helping others? Consider a career as a patient care technician (PCT)! Becoming a PCT is a great opportunity to help others and to get your foot in the door if you are considering a career in nursing.‍ In this blog, we'll talk about what is a PCT, what they do, how to become one, their certification, salary, and job opportunities.

Key Points

• A Patient Care Technician, or PCT, is a healthcare professional who provides direct care to patients such as monitoring vital signs, assisting with medical procedures, and ensuring patient comfort in various medical settings.

• Aspiring PCTs typically need to complete a post-secondary educational program, often offered by community colleges or vocational schools. This is followed by obtaining certification from a recognized healthcare organization.

• PCT training programs in the USA can vary in length, but most can be completed within a year.

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a Patient Care Technician in the USA is around $30,000 per year, with the potential for growth with experience and additional qualifications.

What is a patient care technician?

A Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a healthcare professional who provides hands-on care to patients. They perform the duties of a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) but are also trained to perform basic medical tasks such as performing EKGs and phlebotomy. A PCT works under the supervision of a registered nurse, medical doctor, or other healthcare provider. The laws of each state determine the extent of responsibility for PCT practice.

What does a patient care technician do?

As a PCT, you may have specific duties depending on the healthcare setting you’ll be working in. Here are some typical job duties and responsibilities that you will be performing as a PCT:

• Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Assist patients with tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.

• Vital signs: Monitor and record patients' vital signs, including blood pressure, temperature, pulse, and respiration.

• Specimen collection: Collect and label specimens for testing, such as blood, urine, and stool samples.

• Patient safety: Observe and report any changes in the patient's condition and identify and report any safety hazards in the healthcare environment.

• Communication: Communicate effectively with patients, family, and healthcare team members to provide appropriate care.

• Patient records: Document patient care in medical records and maintain the confidentiality of patient information.

• Patient transportation: Assist with patient transfers and transportation within the healthcare facility.

• Infection control: Follow infection control protocols to prevent the spread of infection.

• Emergency response: Respond appropriately in emergencies and provide basic first aid if necessary.

Where do PCTs work?

As a PCT, you can work in a variety of healthcare settings. This includes hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and other healthcare facilities. Due to the aging population and the growth of the healthcare industry, the demand for PCTs will potentially increase in the coming years.

What are the skills and qualities needed for a PCT?

A PCT is responsible for providing primary care and support to patients in various healthcare settings. To excel in this role, you will need specific skills and qualities, which include:

• Compassion and empathy: As a PCT, you will work closely with patients experiencing pain, discomfort, or anxiety. It's essential to be able to connect with patients on a personal level, listen to their concerns, and provide emotional support.

• Attention to detail: Patient care requires precision and accuracy. PCTs must be able to carefully follow instructions, accurately record patient information, and perform tasks such as taking vital signs and administering medication with great care.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills: PCTs work as part of a team that includes doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Effective communication is critical to ensuring that patients receive the best possible care. PCTs must be able to communicate clearly and respectfully with patients and colleagues.

• Physical stamina and dexterity: PCTs need physical stamina to stand and move patients and manual dexterity for procedures like IV insertion and catheterization. State regulations vary, with some allowing only catheter and IV removal and others requiring skill training "check-offs" for insertion. Always check your state's rules and laws.

How do I become a PCT? How long does it take?

The steps to becoming a PCT may vary depending on the specific requirements of the employer or the state you’re in, but here are some general steps you can take:

1. Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent: A high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED, is typically a requirement to become a PCT.

2. Get the essential training and/or requirements: This typically includes learning about basic first aid, and if you intend to work in home health, you may also need a valid driver's license. Find Patient Care Technician classes near you and search for the Cheapest and Fastest Patient Care Technician Programs.

3. Complete a PCT training program: Some employers may require completing a PCT training program. This may take about 24 - 32 weeks to complete. Depending on the institution, the cost of the training may range from $950 - $5,000. These programs provide the skills and knowledge needed to work as a PCT, including primary patient care, medical terminology, and infection control. Discover more insights by exploring our blog post titled 'How Long Does It Take to Become a PCT?'

4. Obtain certification: Some employers require a certification, even though it is not always needed to become a PCT. The National Healthcareer Association (NHA) offers a certification exam for PCTs. The topics include infection control, patient care, and medical terminology. The exam has two parts: the written part and the skill part.

It is important to note that certain states require a CNA certification to be a PCT, and some allow you to qualify and sit for the CNA certification exam if you’re currently in a PCT program. Hence, checking your state’s specific requirements for becoming a PCT is essential. Then, see if you need to become a CNA to know how and where to start.‍

How much does a PCT make?

Once you're on the path to becoming a PCT, you may wonder how much you can expect to earn. While salaries can vary depending on location and experience, the median annual wage for PCTs falls between $30,000 and $46,000 per year. Many PCT positions also offer benefits such as healthcare, retirement plans, and paid time off.‍

What is the job outlook for PCTs?

‍The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 4% growth in nursing assistants and orderlies (which includes PCTs) from 2023 to 2033. One driving factor is the aging baby boomer population, who will require more healthcare services in the coming years. There will be plenty of job opportunities for PCTs in the foreseeable future.‍ Gain further insights by delving into our blog post regarding the Patient Care Technician Job Outlook.

What comes after PCT?

But what about career advancement opportunities? The good news is that you can have many opportunities for career advancement and specialization as a PCT. You can pursue careers as a registered nurse, medical assistant, or other healthcare professional with additional education and training. Here's a list of some of the specializations that you can pursue as a PCT:

• Phlebotomy Technician: Collects and prepares blood and other specimens for testing.

• Electrocardiograph (EKG) Technician: Performs EKG readings to help diagnose and treat heart conditions.

• Hemodialysis Technician: Operates equipment to perform hemodialysis treatments for patients with kidney failure.

• Certified Medication Technician (CMT): Administers medications under the supervision of a licensed nurse.

• Patient Care Associate (PCA): Focuses on patient comfort and companionship more than CNAs or PCTs; usually, homecare assistants help with basic tasks like cleaning, cooking, and laundry for people who need assistance or are homebound.

It's important to note that the specific job duties and requirements for each of these specializations may vary depending on the employer and state regulations. Additionally, some specializations may require additional education and training beyond the conditions to become a PCT.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the highest patient care technician salary?

The highest patient care technician salary varies depending on the location and level of experience but as of 2023, the top 10% of CNAs, which may include patient care technicians, earn over $48,780 annually in the United States.

What are the administrative duties a patient care technician might perform?

Patient care technicians may perform a variety of administrative duties such as scheduling patient appointments, updating medical records, preparing patients for procedures, and coordinating with other healthcare professionals.

What state pays the most for Patient Care Technician?

As of 2023 based on the U.S. BLS, the state that pays the most for CNAs which may include Patient Care Technicians is the District of Columbia, with an average annual salary of approximately $47,860. Other high-paying states include Alaska, California, Oregon, and Washington.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a PCT can be a fulfilling and rewarding career if you are passionate about providing hands-on patient care. With the proper education, training, and skills, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families. If you're interested in pursuing a career as a PCT, research your area's specific requirements and opportunities. Start achieving your career goals with Dreambound!

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For more valuable information about being a PCT, check out the links below:

• Is PCT a Good Job? Pros and Cons
• Patient Care Technician Salary
• Difference Between a PCT and CNA
• How to Become a PCT in High School?