Ready to find a career and not just another job? This guide to patient care technician training will give you all the details you need to know to jump into this program.
Patient care technicians are valuable healthcare professionals. Employed in hospitals, medical labs, physician offices, extended care facilities – these skilled individuals specialize in inpatient care. From specimen collection to assisting patients with eating, a patient care technician performs a wide range of duties. In fact, these professionals are some of the most important healthcare workers today.
If you’ve ever considered pursuing a career where you have the opportunity to help others daily, here is what you need to know about becoming a patient care technician.
Day in the life of a patient care technician
Although patient care technicians rarely experience the same day twice, there are some common situations these professionals encounter on a daily basis. For example, regardless of the place of employment, patient care technicians can expect to tend to ill and injured individuals. After all, patient care technicians are primarily focused on patient care. Which means that you can expect to assist sick and injured individuals on a daily basis. It is common for patient care technicians to take vital signs, perform catheterization, maintain patient hygiene, assist with eating, and much more. Although specific job duties can vary by position and location, one-thing most patient care technicians have in common is helping people. Whether they are working in an emergency room or nursing home, they are focused on aiding others. So if you’re someone who finds joy in helping others, it is likely you will find a career in patient career to be rewarding.
What does the Patient Care Technician training entail?
If you’re interested in a career as a patient care technician, you may be wondering what the requirements are. After all, what does it take to begin a career in this field?
Luckily, you’ve come to the right place! In order to become a PCT or patient care technician, you will need to have a high school diploma as well as complete a training program. Training programs will vary by state and location. However, you can expect to learn the cognitive, psychomotor, and behavioral skills necessary to enter this health career. Often, these patient care technician training programs can be completed in less than one year. Which means that you can get your new career started as a patient care technician in next to no time!
Individuals enrolled in FTC’s Patient Care Technician Diploma Program will complete 160 hours of practical experience in a real medical setting. During this course of study, students are taught how to perform vital tasks such as drawing blood, preparing patients for examination, performing electrocardiography (EKGs) and much more! Our Patient Care Technician program equips students with the tools and resources necessary for success.
After completing the Patient Care Technician training program, you will then be able to become a certified patient care technician/assistant (CPCT/A) by passing an exam. Once you’ve landed a position in this field, you can also expect on-the-job training to take place.
Preparing for your certification
Now that you understand more about the training requirements to become a patient care technician, you may be curious about how to best prepare.
Step 1: Enroll in a quality-training
First and foremost, enroll in a quality-training program. Although you may run across several programs, not all Patient Care Technician training programs are created equally. Look for an accredited program to ensure you are receiving a quality education. After all, one of the most important things you can do when preparing for certification is to learn the tools of the trade. And that starts with your education.
Step 2: Next, you will also want to make sure to review the information before the examination.
While you may know the material, it’s important you have a thorough understanding of the information in order to successfully pass the examination requirements. If possible, prepare for certification by studying with other people. Studying with a group can be a great way to learn the material while also building connections with your peers!
I have my Patient Care Technician Certification, now what?
Receiving your certification as a patient care technician is a rewarding moment. But its only one piece of the puzzle – you’re also going to need to find employment in your new career. While being a certified patient care technician is fantastic, finding a job can be just as important.
Curious about how to prepare? To maximize your success, it is important that you are prepared and ready to apply for jobs as a patient care technician. While you may possess the necessary requirements, it is crucial to show employers why you are the right person for the job. This means you will need to plan ahead. Prepare your resume and cover letter in advance. If you need assistance, be sure to take advantage of any resume resources available through your Patient Care Technician training program. Also, have someone else read over your resume and cover letter for a final review if possible. It is easy to make a mistake. By having someone else review your work; you’ll be less likely to make a costly error.
In addition, you will also want to find professional clothing. While you do not need to spend a fortune on a business wardrobe, you will need to wear business professional clothing for your interview. Remember, you only have one chance to make a great first impression.
Job prospects for Patient Care Technicians in Florida.
Looking to find employment in the Sunshine State? Florida is known for its beaches, partying and the many residents that come here to retire. If you’re considering starting your career here, rest assured, there are few places like Florida.
In fact, if there is one thing you should know about working as a patient care technician in Florida, its that type of jobs available vary widely. With its diverse and growing cities, Florida is home to a wide range of medical facilities. From large hospitals to senior living centers, there’s something for everyone here. This means that the type of patient care technician positions you may come across are going to vary widely.
Explore your opportunities early on to find the right job match for you. While patient care technicians perform similar duties, environments can vary.
The right-job match for you is out there, are you ready?
