What is a Patient Care Technician (PCT)?
In the state of Maryland, a PCT is a certified nursing assistant (CNA) who has received training on how to perform advance skills such as tracheostomy care/suctioning, venipuncture (phlebotomy), IV insertion/removal, foley catheter insertion/removal, EKGs and more.
What are the differences between a certified nursing assistant (CNA) & a Patient Care Technician (PCT)?
A CNA has a limited scope of practice when compared to a PCT. A CNA is certified through the board of nursing and is responsible for helping residents/patients with performing ADLSs, vital signs, answering call lights and documentation. A PCT is certified through the board of nursing as a CNA as well, but has received formal or informal training on how to perform tracheostomy care/suctioning, venipuncture (phlebotomy), IV insertion/removal, foley catheter insertion/removal, EKGs and more. PCTs can also hold a national certification.
How can I get certified as a Patient Care Technician (PCT)?
To get certified as a PCT, the first step is earning your CNA certification. In the state of Maryland, all PCTs are CNAs. Upon completion of the CNA certification program, one would have to enroll in a PCT program. In the near future Top Knowledge will be offering a PCT program. Top Knowledge’s PCT program will run for 12 weeks and at the end of the program, students will be able to earn their PCT and Phlebotomy certifications.
Where can I work as a Patient Care Technician (PCT)?
PCTs can work in a multitude of places. For example, PCTs can work in hospitals, dialysis centers and in some urgent care centers. Although PCTs are already CNAs, because they have additional training in advance skills they often receive a higher salary.
