Patient care technicians (PCTs) are an important part of the healthcare team. They work behind the scenes to handle technical details that can make a huge difference in patients’ lives. In addition, they help nurses in keeping the patients healthy and comfortable. Working as a PCT can be a stepping stone for you to becoming a certified nursing assistant or registered nurse. Read on to learn what a patient care technician is and how to get started in this field.
What is a patient care technician?
Patient care technicians are healthcare professionals known for providing daily care to patients while helping them improve their health. They work under the supervision of a registered nurse or nursing team. Their job role often involves assisting the nursing team with taking patients’ vital signs and helping move patients around a hospital, etc.
Their main objective is ensuring the patient feels comfortable in a health care setting. They communicate with the nursing team about any changes in the patient’s medical condition and potential issues. Their primary job responsibilities are-
How to become a PCT?
Becoming a patient care technician requires a person to have technical and workplace skills. Therefore, you may need to complete training and certifications to start your career as a PCT.
Educational requirements
If you are planning to become a PCT, you must complete at least a high school diploma or GED. In addition to these educational needs, you may need to fulfill the certification requirements. But it all depends on the state or location where you will practice and the type of PCT job you want to apply for!
Specialized training
Most states will require you to complete a training program for a patient care technician and learn the required skills. During the training, you will learn the basics of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and much more! It has been observed that employers prefer hiring candidates who have completed the training over those who have not attended any PCT training classes.
Certification
After completing the PCT training program, you may need to pass the certification exam. So, enrolling in a medical school where students are trained to be certified PCT or nursing assistants/aides is best.
People often choose to work as a PCT while completing their education to enter another profession in the healthcare industry. For example, if you are planning to become a registered nurse, you can work as a PCT and gain some clinical experience.
If you are interested in a career in the healthcare industry as a PCT, search for the best medical school offering a patient care technician training program near your place or get in touch with Royal Learning Institute. Then, enroll in the PCT classes and gain the required knowledge before starting your search for a job!
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