Patient Care Technician

Program Description

The Patient Care Technician Certificate prepares individuals to work as part of the health care team. Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) are multi-skilled allied healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of a nurse or physician. These individuals are trained to work in a hospital or clinic setting. Patient Care Technicians can perform duties such as responding to patient calls, assisting patients with personal hygiene, serving meals, assisting with therapies, and monitoring vital signs. Other responsibilities of a PCT consist of drawing laboratory specimens, inserting and removing catheters, performing dressing changes and electrocardiograms (ECGs), and assisting with oxygen therapy. Successful completion of the program allows the student to sit for certification exams in Phlebotomy, ECG Technician, and Patient Care Technician.

It is required that students obtain the following clearances upon admission to the program as it is a standard requirement of most healthcare facilities:

• Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Record
• Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance
• Federal Bureau of Investigation Criminal Record Check

This program falls under the federal guidelines of Gainful Employment programming. For important information regarding program costs, debt, and potential earnings, please click here.

Career Opportunities

After satisfactory completion of the patient care technician program, the graduate will be able to seek employment in the following areas:

• Patient Care Technician
• ECG Technician
• Phlebotomy Technician

Program Objectives

Upon completion of the program, the student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate effective written/oral communication with patients, families, and other health care team members.
2. Display professional conduct, appearance, and ethical behavior when providing PCT care.
3. Provide basic care including emotional, physical, psychological, and spiritual support to patients of all age groups in a variety of healthcare settings.
4. Perform PCT procedures in a safe and therapeutic manner while in compliance with federal/state mandates.
5. Exhibit the use of relevant technology in the implementation of patient care while maintaining compliance with laws related to Protected Health Information (PHI).
6. Implement basic safety and infection control practices in the health care setting.
7. Function effectively as a member of the health care team.
8. Become a certified patient care technician.

Obtaining the Certificate

To earn the certificate, the student must:

1. Matriculate into the program.
2. Satisfactorily complete all certificate requirements.