How to Become a Patient Care Technician (PCT)

Want to help patients directly? Becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is one of the fastest ways to enter the medical field. PCTs provide essential bedside care under the supervision of nurses and doctors — and this guide shows you how to get started.

What Does a Patient Care Technician Do?

Patient Care Technicians work in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics, helping patients with daily needs and basic medical care. Their role combines technical skill with compassion.

Typical duties include:

• Checking vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, temperature)
• Drawing blood and collecting lab samples
• Assisting patients with mobility, bathing, and meals
• Performing ECGs and monitoring equipment
• Supporting nurses and doctors during procedures

PCTs play a crucial part in patient comfort, safety, and recovery — and they’re often the ones patients see most during their stay.

How to Become a Patient Care Technician (5 Steps)

Here’s the typical path to a PCT career:

1. Earn your high school diploma or GED
   This is required for any accredited PCT training program.

2. Complete a Patient Care Technician training program
   Training covers anatomy, infection control, phlebotomy, EKGs, and patient interaction. Most programs take 6–12 months.

3. Gain clinical experience
   Programs include hands-on externships in hospitals or nursing facilities.

4. Get certified
   The most recognized credentials include:

   • CPCT/A (Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant) – by NHA
   • CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) – required in many states
   • Phlebotomy or EKG certifications – optional but valuable

5. Start your healthcare career
   Many PCTs work in hospitals, rehab centers, or long-term care — often advancing to LPN or RN roles later.

Patient Care Technician Training Options

You can train for this career at:

• Trade and Technical Schools – Fast-track programs with hands-on labs
• Community Colleges – Certificate or diploma programs in patient care
• Online / Hybrid Courses – Flexible scheduling with local clinical placements

Certification & Licensing

Most states require Patient Care Technicians to hold at least one certification. Common credentials include:

• CPCT/A (Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant) – NHA
• CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) – State approved
• CET (Certified EKG Technician)
• CPT (Certified Phlebotomy Technician)

Always verify state-specific requirements before enrolling in a program.

Skills That Make a Great Patient Care Technician

• Compassion and empathy for patients
• Attention to detail
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to follow instructions precisely
• Physical stamina and emotional resilience

If you enjoy helping others and want a rewarding, hands-on healthcare job — PCT is a great fit.

Pros & Cons of Being a PCT

Pros:

• Fast training time (under 1 year)
• Strong demand in hospitals and nursing homes
• Pathway to nursing or advanced healthcare roles
• Meaningful, people-centered work

Cons:

• Physically demanding shifts
• Exposure to illness or injury risk
• Emotional strain from patient care

Career Growth Opportunities

Many PCTs advance into higher-paying healthcare roles, including:

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
• Registered Nurse (RN)
• Medical Assistant (MA)
• Phlebotomist or EKG Technician

Start Your PCT Career

With short training programs, steady job growth, and opportunities to advance, becoming a PCT is one of the best ways to start in healthcare.

Your future in patient care starts today.

Patient Care Technician Salary by State