Patient Care Technician, C.A.S.

Major Code: 260

The Patient Care Technician is a program which prepares a medical professional to perform hands on basic medical services, help those who are ill or injured, obtain EKG and vital signs, collect specimens, perform phlebotomy procedures, and assist individuals who need help with daily activities. This program allows for testing for three certifications through NHA: Patient Care Technician (PCT), Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) and EKG Technician (CET).  There is a growing need for patient care throughout all segments of the health care industry. Patient care technicians work under the supervision of a provider and have direct patient contact as a member of the health care team. Employment opportunities may include assisted living facilities, Urgent Care Clinics, Community Health Agencies, Home Health Services, Hospitals, Laboratories, Long-term Care Facilities, Medical Centers, Nursing Homes, Physical Therapy Departments, Physician Offices, and Rehabilitation Centers. Students learn from instructors who work in the health care field and understand what it takes to provide top quality health care. Patient care students learn skills in a medical lab on campus which replicates the medical care environment.  

In addition to General Education Outcomes, upon completion of this program, graduates will:

• Perform basic patient care skills
• Apply infection control and safety measures in health care setting
• Provide legal and ethical care consistent with National Health Care Association (NHA) standards
• Perform basic venipuncture technique to NHA standards
• Perform basic EKG technique and interpretation to NHA standards
• Communicate effectively and appropriately in interactions with patients and as a member of the health care team when providing basic patient care

Students must complete PCT I & PCT II prior to being eligible to take Patient Care Technician Certification exam.

CIP Code: 513902