A certified patient care technician is a vital member of the healthcare team who plays a crucial role in ensuring the well-being and comfort of patients.
With their specialized training and expertise, certified patient care technicians are instrumental in promoting quality care in a variety of healthcare settings.
According to research, there are over 164,835 patient care technicians employed in the US.
In this blog, we will explore the essential role of certified patient care technicians in ensuring that patients receive the highest quality care possible.
We’ll also discuss the training and certification requirements for these healthcare professionals, as well as the career opportunities available in this rewarding field.
What is a certified patient care technician?
What exactly is a certified patient care technician, and what sets them apart from other healthcare professionals?
Let’s take a closer look.
A certified patient care technician is a healthcare professional who has completed specialized training and passed a certification exam to demonstrate their competency in patient care.
The certification process ensures that patient care technicians have the necessary knowledge and skills to provide safe and effective care to patients.
Patient care technicians work under the supervision of registered nurses or other healthcare professionals and provide direct patient care.
They play a crucial role in monitoring patients’ vital signs and making sure patients are as comfortable as possible.
This specialized training enables them to provide a broad range of services to patients, making them an essential part of the healthcare team.
Educational requirements to become a certified patient care technician
Becoming a patient care technician is an exciting career choice, but it requires some serious dedication and education.
The educational requirements for patient care technicians can vary depending on the position and its responsibilities.
So, let’s explore what it takes to become a certified patient care technician.
First, it’s important to note that patient care technician programs are widely available at technical schools, community colleges, and universities.
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These programs are state-approved and typically consist of classroom instruction, hands-on clinical experience, and supervised work with real patients.
Once you complete the educational program, you’ll need to pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) exam and a certification exam through the National Healthcareer Association to obtain certification from the state.
But that’s not all!
Some employers may require additional pre-employment checks, such as a background check, to ensure that you’re a suitable candidate for the job.
And once you’re employed.., you may be required to complete continuing education credits or training to stay up-to-date with the latest medical techniques and technologies.
Patient care technician benefits for the healthcare industry
One of the most significant benefits of certified patient care technicians is that they help to improve patient care quality.
PCTs work closely with patients and assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, feeding, and dressing.
By providing this essential care, PCTs help patients maintain their dignity and independence while ensuring their safety and well-being.
This personalized care also helps build trust and rapport between patients and their healthcare providers — essential for good communication and effective treatment.
Certified patient care technicians also help to reduce the workload of registered nurses and other healthcare professionals, allowing them to focus on more complex tasks.
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With PCTs on the team, healthcare providers can spend more time on tasks that require their expertise and training, such as:
- administering medication,
- performing procedures,
- and developing care plans.
This increased efficiency benefits healthcare providers and improves the overall patient experience.
Another benefit of certified patient care technicians is their versatility.
They can work in a variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and home healthcare agencies.
PCTs can provide care to patients of all ages. They’re also trained to handle a range of medical equipment and perform basic diagnostic tests.
This flexibility makes PCTs valuable assets to any healthcare team and ensures that patients receive the care they need, regardless of their location or age.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the projected job outlook for nursing assistants (such as patient care technicians) is expected to grow by 5% between 2021 and 2031.
As the demand for healthcare services continues to increase, the need for these healthcare workers will also continue to grow.
Final remarks
These skilled professionals provide personalized care to patients. This not only helps them maintain their dignity and independence but also ensures their safety and well-being.
Plus… PCTs can help reduce the workload of healthcare providers. This then allows other staff to focus on more complex tasks and ultimately improving the overall patient experience.
If you’re thinking about a career in healthcare, becoming a certified patient care technician could be a fantastic choice.
