Our secondary programs are not designed as standalone programs for new students. If you do not have experience working in the medical or dental industry, please see our Medical Assistant Certification Program, Dental Assistant Training Program, or Medical & Dental Administrative Assistant Program. If you are currently working in the Medical or Dental industries and are looking to earn a specific certification, please contact us as secondary programs may be a standalone option for you.
Patient Care Technician Training at ACI Medical & Dental School
Our Patient Care Technician Program is offered as part of our Medical Assistant Certification Program and gives students the skills and requirements needed to become a certified Patient Care Technician (PCT) in just five months.
- Obtain Certification in a Matter of Months
- Complete Accredited Clinical & Academic Program
- Choose Flexible Day or Evening Classes
- Benefit from Small Class Sizes and Hands-On Medical Training
- Financial Aid Options Available for Day Programs
- Classes Begin Soon
What Does a Patient Care Technician Do?
Patient Care Technicians, sometimes called Patient Care Assistants, work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and other health care settings as an essential part of a healthcare team. They work closely with nurses and doctors, assisting patients with daily living activities as well as assisting with basic medical procedures. Their role varies based on the healthcare facility they’re part of and encompasses a blend of clinical and administrative tasks.
The day-to-day duties of a Patient Care Technician may include:
- Vital Sign Monitoring: Taking and recording patients’ vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and respiratory rate.
- Patient Assistance: Assisting patients with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, feeding, and mobility.
- Medical Procedures: Performing basic medical procedures, such as drawing blood for laboratory tests, collecting urine samples, and performing electrocardiograms (ECGs/EKGs).
- Patient Monitoring: Observing patients’ conditions and reporting any changes or concerns to the nursing or medical staff.
- Equipment Operation: Operating and maintaining medical equipment, such as blood pressure monitors and glucose meters.
- Sterilization and Infection Control: Ensuring proper sterilization of medical instruments and maintaining a clean and safe environment for patients.
- Record Keeping: Documenting patient care activities accurately and maintaining medical records.
- Communication: Communicating effectively with patients, their families, and the healthcare team to ensure proper care and coordination.
- Transporting Patients: Transporting patients to different areas within the healthcare facility for various procedures and tests.
- Emergency Response: Assisting during emergencies and providing immediate support to patients in critical situations.
Highlights of Our Patient Care Technician Program
Our program emphasizes a balanced approach, blending academic learning with hands-on experience in a state-of-the-art on-site lab. The comprehensive curriculum and dedicated faculty support equip students to understand their roles, communicate effectively, and engage in a healthcare setting, empowering them to confidently enter the healthcare field.
- NHA Certification: Successful completion of the PCT program leads to certification through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Our graduates are ready to work in a wide variety of healthcare settings, assisting doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.
- Holistic Training: Our program also includes training for EKG, Phlebotomy, and other vital Patient Care Technician skills.
- Career Assistance: Our Career Assistance Program (CAP) is an integral part of the PCT Certification Program. It helps students strategize their career plans and achieve their employment goals upon completion of the PCT program.
- Financial Aid: Financial assistance is available for eligible students through Federal Direct Loans (FAFSA) and VA benefits for our day programs. With these options, students can pursue their education without concerns about upfront costs. At ACI Medical & Dental School, we strive to support our students in achieving their goals.
- Day & Evening Classes: We provide a comprehensive PCT training program offering day and evening classes. The accelerated daytime program spans 14 weeks, while the flexible evening program takes 35 weeks. Upon completion of either program, students will become Certified Patient Care Technicians (PCT).
Job Outlook for Patient Care Technicians
Healthcare is a booming sector, and the demand for Patient Care Technicians is growing faster than the supply of qualified candidates. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 5% increase in job growth for Patient Care Technicians by 2031, which is higher than the average across all occupations. With our high graduation and employment rates, there’s no better time to start your journey towards this in-demand career at ACI Medical & Dental School.
Our Patient Care Technician Internship Program
An integral part of our PCT program is the required internship. Daytime students complete a 180-hour on-site internship. This provides invaluable hands-on experience and insight into a PCT’s day-to-day responsibilities in a live medical setting. Upon completion, students will have real-world experience to complement their classroom learning, preparing them for a successful career in healthcare.
Learn More About Our NJ Patient Care Technician Classes
With years of experience in delivering superior career training, ACI Medical and Dental School is the perfect choice for those seeking a healthcare certification. Take the first step towards an in-demand career in the medical industry. Contact us today to learn more about our admissions process.
