Patient Care Technician
Last Updated on May 21, 2008

Patient Care Technician is one of the most versatile careers
in the medical field and is becoming very important in private practice, hospitals, nursing homes, etc. It is a job that takes energy, stamina, dependability, honesty, and a strong desire to help. They are responsible for many different personal and professional tasks each day.

The Patient Care Technician program combines basic knowledge with applied skills mastered in the classroom and laboratory. PCT's have additional training that expands the role of the nursing assistant. Your duties may include giving ECG's, taking vital signs, such as blood pressure, pulse and temperature, acting as a phlebotomist, and assisting with medications under the supervision of a registered nurse or physician. It is a multi-skilled field where you will find
possibilities for growth and advancement. Being a certified PCT can be an exciting and rewarding chapter in your life.

Graduates will be certified in CPR, First Aid and AED (Automatic Electronic Defibrillator). Students will also be eligible to take national certification exams to become certified as Phlebotomists, Patient Care Technicians and or EKG Technicians. The student will also possess skills for ward secretary and monitor tech.

Occupation Opportunities

Graduates of the program will be qualified for work in the hospital, outpatient, nursing home or other health care facilities. The job outlook for a PCT is currently very good. Employment opportunities are expected to continue to rise in the future. Certification does expand your opportunities. It allows you to be considered by more employers. Many positions require certification. The NCPCT (certification) demonstrates mastery of medical methods and the
principles of quality patient care.

Employment Outlook
Graduates can expect the following:

• average salary of 2006-2007 graduates is $17,000

• placement rate of 2006-2007 graduates is 100%

• employment in cities and towns of all sizes

Employers
Recent graduates have found work at:

• Self Regional Healthcare

• Wesley Commons

Program & Course Information
For information about Piedmont Technical College's programs and courses offered in this area, visit the Patient Care Technology Program webpage

For more information about programs related to this career field offered by Piedmont Technical College click on the Allied Health Department webpage

Career Tracks is a publication of Piedmont Technical College that reflects the current career statistics for students who have completed programs of the college.  Forward your questions about this site to Andy Omundson at (864) 941-8376 or by e-mail to omundson.a@ptc.edu.