One of the most honorable professions to have is in health care. Being there to help patients and assist other medical professionals is among the most difficult yet noble careers. At Broward Technical Colleges, the patient care technician courses are here to help you pursue your career.
The Patient Care Technician program is designed for students who want to enter the healthcare field and begin building hands-on skills in a focused amount of time. The program is approximately 600 hours and can be completed in about six months when taken full time, making it a practical option for students who are ready to start training for a patient-focused role.
Patient care technicians work directly with patients while supporting nurses and other healthcare professionals. Through this program, students can begin developing the bedside care, communication, safety, and clinical support skills needed in healthcare settings.
Get ready to jump right in when you begin the course load with 12-lead EKG training, basic phlebotomy techniques and restorative skills. Once this course load is complete, you’ll be ready and eligible to take the State Certified Nursing Assistant Certification Exam.
Students also receive training that helps prepare them for the responsibilities of a multi-skilled healthcare worker. Instruction may include nursing assistant skills, EKG support, phlebotomy procedures, restorative care, infection control, emergency response, medical terminology, documentation, and basic patient wellness concepts.
Upon successful completion of the program, students may have the opportunity to pursue the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant certification through the National Healthcareer Association or the Certified Nursing Assistant examination through the Florida Board of Nursing.
Key Patient Care Technician Skills Covered
- Nursing assistant and personal patient care skills
- 12-lead EKG training and EKG modalities
- Basic phlebotomy procedures and protocols
- CPR, BLS healthcare provider training, and emergency care
- Infection control procedures and bloodborne disease awareness
- Medical terminology, documentation, and safety procedures
- Communication, interpersonal, and employability skills
- HIPAA, legal, and ethical responsibilities
If your desire is to help others and assist medical professionals, but you don’t have a lot of time or training, Broward Technical Colleges are here to help you accomplish your dream career in a year.
This program can be especially helpful for students who do not have previous medical experience but want a structured path into healthcare. By combining classroom instruction with practical skill development, the program helps students build a foundation for entry-level patient care opportunities and future growth in the medical field.
FAQs
How fast can you become a PCT?
At Broward Technical Colleges, our Patient Care Technician program is designed to be completed in approximately 36 weeks, allowing students to enter the workforce in less than a year.
Can you take PCT classes online?
While our program emphasizes hands-on clinical training, we understand the need for flexibility. Therefore, we offer a hybrid model that combines online coursework with in-person lab sessions, ensuring students receive both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
Is a PCT harder than a CNA?
Both roles are vital in patient care, but they differ in scope. Patient Care Technicians receive more comprehensive training, including skills like phlebotomy, EKG monitoring, and basic laboratory procedures, which are typically beyond the CNA role. This expanded skill set can make the PCT program more intensive.
How long does PCT certification last?
Certifications such as the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) are valid for two years. To maintain certification, professionals must complete continuing education requirements and renew their credentials accordingly.
What does a PCT do in a hospital?
Patient Care Technicians play a crucial role in hospitals by:
- Monitoring vital signs
- Assisting with wound care and catheter maintenance
- Supporting patients with daily activities like bathing and mobility
- Performing EKGs and phlebotomy procedures
- Collaborating with healthcare teams to ensure comprehensive patient care