Want to help others while working as part of a team? If so, becoming a patient care technician (PCT) might be your perfect career path. Wondering what a patient care technician does? This article will help you understand what a patient care technician does, where they work, and how to become one. By the end of the article, you will have much more knowledge to make that critical decision whether to become a patient care technician and attend Florida National University (FNU).
What Does a Patient Care Technician Do?
A patient care technician provides hands-on assistance to patients while supporting the staff in their medical facility. The role combines the skills of a nursing assistant and a technician. Some of the duties a patient care technician is responsible for include:
Patient Support
The primary responsibility of a patient care technician is to ensure that patients are comfortable and receiving appropriate care. Common tasks include:
- Assisting patients with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and eating.
- Monitoring vital signs such as blood pressure, temperature, and pulse.
- Turning or repositioning patients to prevent bedsores.
- Helping patients with mobility, including transferring them from beds to wheelchairs.
Medical Support
Patient care technicians perform medical-related tasks under the supervision of nurses or doctors. These tasks may include:
- Collecting blood samples through phlebotomy.
- Setting up medical equipment for procedures.
- Monitoring patients’ physical and emotional well-being and reporting changes to the medical staff.
Emotional Support
Patient care technicians serve as a source of comfort and emotional support for patients and their families. Whether offering a listening ear or explaining procedures, they play a crucial role in fostering empathy and compassion.
Administrative Support
Patient care technicians document patient information, such as vital signs and care activities. They also maintain accurate records to ensure patients get the best care possible.
Where Does a Patient Care Technician Work?
Did you know you can work in many environments as a patient care technician? You can choose the following workplaces once you complete your education at Florida National University.
Hospitals
Hospitals are among the most common workplaces for patient care technicians. They assist with inpatient and outpatient care, working in emergency rooms, intensive care units, and medical-surgical floors.
In a hospital setting, patient care technicians focus on the patient. They take vital signs, help reposition patients to prevent bedsores, and assist those who need support getting out of bed or using wheelchairs. They may also collect blood samples through phlebotomy, perform electrocardiograms (EKGs), and help nurses or physicians during medical procedures. In critical care settings, PCTs are responsible for closely observing patients and promptly reporting any changes in their condition.
Nursing Homes and Long-Term Care Facilities
A patient care technician in a nursing home or long-term care facility provides essential support to residents who require ongoing assistance due to chronic illnesses, disabilities, or age-related conditions. Their role combines direct patient care, monitoring, and emotional support to meet the needs of long-term residents. Tasks include helping with daily activities, monitoring health conditions, and providing companionship.
Patient care technicians work closely with nurses, therapists, and other healthcare staff to deliver comprehensive care. They communicate residents’ needs and progress and ensure the care plan is adjusted as necessary.
Rehabilitation Centers
Rehabilitation centers focus on patients recovering from surgeries, injuries, or illnesses. In this setting, patient care technicians help patients regain independence through mobility assistance and therapeutic support.
Patient care technicians collaborate with physical and occupational therapists, helping patients with exercises and mobility training as part of their rehabilitation plans. They assist patients in using walkers, wheelchairs, or other assistive devices and encourage them to achieve their recovery goals. By offering consistent support, patient care technicians contribute to patients’ progress and help them regain confidence in their abilities.
Home Healthcare
Some patient care technicians work in patients’ homes, providing personalized care for those who prefer to receive medical assistance in their own homes. This role involves helping patients with personal hygiene, administering medications, and monitoring health conditions. They focus on meeting each patient’s unique needs while promoting their independence and overall well-being.
In home healthcare settings, patient care technicians often help with light housekeeping tasks, such as laundry or organizing, to maintain a clean and safe environment for the patient. They may also assist with grocery shopping or errands, ensuring the patient can access essential supplies.
Outpatient Clinics
Outpatient settings like dialysis centers rely on patient care technicians to assist with specialized procedures. For example, patient care technicians help prepare patients for treatments, monitor their vital signs, and provide post-treatment care.
In outpatient clinics, patient care technicians perform various clinical responsibilities under the supervision of nurses or doctors. These include:
- Collecting blood samples via phlebotomy.
- Performing electrocardiograms (EKGs) to monitor heart function.
- Cleaning and maintaining medical instruments and exam rooms.
Patient care technicians may also perform clerical duties, such as scheduling follow-up appointments, updating electronic health records (EHR), and helping patients fill out insurance forms or process payments.
How Do You Become a Patient Care Technician?
If you are ready to start your career as a patient care technician, here is a step-by-step guide to becoming one:
Step #1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED
A high school diploma or equivalent is the minimum educational requirement for most patient care technician programs. This education lays the foundation for the FNU certificate program in patient care.
Step #2: Enroll in a Patient Care Technician Program
While patient care technicians can work without licensing, many employers seek entry-level medical professionals with experience. The classroom and lab work that students obtain at FNU will prepare them for the medical industry.
Step #3: Continue Learning
Healthcare is constantly evolving, and continuing education is essential for staying current. Many patient care technicians pursue certifications or further education to advance their careers.
Why Do People Work in Healthcare?
Healthcare is a fulfilling industry, offering both personal and professional rewards. Here are some reasons why pursuing a healthcare career, particularly as a patient care technician, is an excellent choice:
Make a Positive Impact
Many people work in healthcare to make a difference in people’s lives. Patient care technicians play a vital role in supporting patients during some of their most vulnerable moments, helping them feel comfortable and cared for. They positively impact patients’ lives because they directly impact patient care, offering a sense of fulfillment from helping others during critical moments in their lives.
Opportunities for Advancement
Starting as a patient care technician can allow you many opportunities to advance in your career. With additional training and certifications, you can advance to positions such as a nurse or a specialized technician. This gives you options to choose from a variety of work environments, from hospitals and rehabilitation centers to home health care and outpatient clinics.
Job Stability
Healthcare is an essential service, meaning it is less susceptible to economic downturns. This stability makes it an attractive field for those seeking long-term career security. As the population ages and medical technology advances, we will need more medical professionals than ever. There is no better reason to become a patient care technician.
Personal Fulfillment
Many healthcare professionals report high levels of job satisfaction because their work is meaningful. As a patient care technician, you will see firsthand how your efforts improve patients’ lives.
Final Thoughts
A career as a patient care technician allows you to make a meaningful impact on patients’ lives while gaining valuable experience to advance in your career. Whether you aspire to remain a patient care technician or use this role as a stepping-stone to other healthcare opportunities, the skills and experience you gain will serve as a solid foundation for your future in healthcare.
Eager to Learn More?
The purpose of the Patient Care Technician Certificate program is to prepare the student for an entry-level position as a patient care technician. The program provides competency in the fundamentals of patient care and basic nursing skills. The student will also gain the knowledge and skills required of home health aides as well as obtain training in basic ECG and venipuncture (for blood collection). Graduates will be qualified for employment in hospitals, nursing homes, and other health-related organizations. The university awards a certificate upon completion of this program.
If you are interested in being a patient care technician, let Florida National University answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to learn more about our diploma and other degree programs.
