At ACI Medical & Dental School in Eatontown, NJ, our Patient Care Technician (PCT) Certification program equips students with the essential skills and knowledge to become certified in just five months. Students gain practical experience using advanced medical equipment in our on-site lab. With the demand for PCTs projected to grow 5% by 2031, now is an excellent time to enter this rewarding field!

Key Benefits of Our Patient Care Technician Program

ACI Medical & Dental School offers unique advantages that distinguish our program from others. Some of our standout features include:

• NHA Certification: Graduates earn certification through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA), qualifying them to work in various healthcare environments, such as hospitals, clinics, and doctor’s offices, assisting healthcare professionals.
• Comprehensive Training: The curriculum covers essential skills, including EKG, Phlebotomy, and other critical PCT techniques.
• Career Support: Our Career Assistance Program (CAP) is designed to help students create career plans and secure employment after completing the PCT certification program.

Completion of an internship at a healthcare facility is a critical component of our students’ education and career preparation. Students will be placed at a clinical site where they will receive practical training in a real work environment. Students will have a mentor that will train and guide them. This important opportunity provides our students with the necessary skills and experience required in the medical field while building the students’ resume. With our internship, students will get hands-on experience in the day-to-day responsibilities of a Patient Care Technician in real healthcare settings including doctors offices, clinics, and hospitals.

Internship schedules are typically based on the availability of clinical sites. Students should be prepared to complete their internship during the week (Monday through Friday). Evening class students will complete a 100-hour internship.

A Patient Care Technician (PCT) provides essential support to nurses and medical professionals by carrying out critical patient care tasks. They contribute significantly to patient comfort and overall well-being in a variety of healthcare settings.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Measuring and recording vital signs, such as blood pressure and temperature
• Assisting patients with mobility, including transfers and repositioning
• Helping with personal care tasks, including bathing, dressing, and feeding
• Performing basic medical procedures, such as drawing blood and conducting EKGs
• Providing emotional support and companionship to patients
• Ensuring cleanliness and maintaining a safe environment in patient rooms and care areas
• Reporting any changes in a patient’s condition to the healthcare team

Expectations for PCT Students at ACI Medical & Dental School:

• Assist patients in moving safely, including helping them in and out of chairs or beds
• Transport medical equipment, beds, and assistive devices as needed
• Stand and walk for prolonged periods during shifts
• Demonstrate strong hand-eye coordination for tasks like monitoring equipment and using medical tools
• Recognize and respond to changes in a patient’s condition
• Follow and process verbal instructions from patients and medical staff efficiently
• Perform CPR when required
• Accurately measure and document patient vital signs

When selecting a PCT training program, consider these key factors:

• Accreditation – Ensure the program is accredited by a recognized healthcare or educational organization for quality training and industry recognition.
• Comprehensive Curriculum – Look for courses that cover critical skills like monitoring vital signs, EKGs, phlebotomy, CPR, and essential patient care techniques.
• Clinical Training – A strong program includes hands-on experience or externships to provide real-world healthcare exposure.
• Qualified Instructors – Choose a program led by experienced professionals with expertise in patient care and medical training.
• Certifications – Make sure the program prepares students for industry-recognized certifications, such as the Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) exam.
• Job Placement Support – Opt for programs that provide career assistance, including job placement services or connections with local healthcare providers.
• Flexible Class Options – Consider part-time or evening classes if you require scheduling flexibility.

Start your journey to becoming a Patient Care Technician with ACI Medical & Dental School in Mercer County. Contact us today!