Patient care technicians deal with the daily care of patients and numerous hospital departments. Learn about patient care technician certification.
Individuals interested in health care career opportunities may wish to obtain patient care technician certification (PCT). PCT certification is offered by the National HealthCareer Association (NHA). Patient care technicians are responsible for a variety of health care tasks.
This entry-level position may also provide opportunities for further advancement. If you are interested in obtaining this type of certification, Reply! can help you find a program in your area that offers certification.
PCTs are responsible for performing duties from a number of health care departments. This type of cross training is increasingly in demand in many different types of health care facilities.
PCTs may be employed in a variety of health care settings, such as nursing homes, labs, doctor offices or hospitals.
A patient care technician typically handles such responsibilities as:
- Setting up charts.
- Recording vital signs.
- Collecting specimens.
- Changing bandages.
- Coordinating test procedures.
- Stocking medical supplies.
- Changing bed linens.
- Processing dirty linens.
- Performing patient safety care checks.
- Obtaining EKG readings.
- Performing phlebotomy procedures.
In addition, a patient care technician assist patients with nutritional needs and help patients with bathing, getting in and out of bed, and any other tasks patients are not able to do on their own.
Patient care technicians are sometimes referred to as health care assistants, nursing aides, hospital attendants or certified nurse assistants.
Prior to taking the PCT certification exam, you will need to graduate from an education program. Many different program options are now available for individuals who are interested in pursuing this career path, including online courses. Although many such programs take place in a classroom, online PCT programs have become more readily available in recent years.
When you decide to enroll in patient care technician training online, you will receive theoretical and practical knowledge that allow you to provide direct patient care in a host of settings. Coursework may include electrocardiogram examinations, meal preparation and phlebotomy assignments.
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Students may also complete internships in an off-campus setting in order to obtain necessary practical experience.
An online education is often a convenient option for adult learners who have family and work responsibilities that do not allow them to enroll in a full-time, on-campus program.
In order to become certified as a patient care technician, candidates must be able to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation, phlebotomy and electrocardiogram procedures. Your knowledge of a variety of other subjects may also be tested and may include basic anatomy, medical terminology and ethical issues.
Becoming certified as a patient care technician can provide a number of important benefits, including increased job opportunities, enhanced job security, increased pay and improved subject-matter expertise.
By attending a patient care technician certification program, you may be able to position yourself for greater opportunities and a highly rewarding job.
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