Patient care technician training will prepare you for a vital role in the health care delivery system. This position serves as a valuable function, because it has more direct patient contact than any other part of the health care team, to include nurses and doctors. Combining classroom studies and hands-on training, the coursework will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to assist patients with many tasks they are unable to complete themselves.
Most training programs take one year or less to complete. Certification is optional, but some states require it for work in certain environments.
Classroom Studies Provide a Foundation of Medical Knowledge
A basic understanding and familiarity with medical science will provide you with the foundation you need to work as a patient care technician. Coursework will cover medical terminology, human anatomy and disease processes along with nutrition and psychology. You will also become acquainted with safety procedures, proper communication techniques and medical ethics.
Clinical Training Prepares You for Competency in Patient Care
Clinical training is an important part of your preparation. You will develop many skills involved in assisting patients with tasks such as bathing, feeding and dressing as well as acquire expertise in collecting blood samples, performing electrocardiograms and executing catheterizations. Other training includes taking vital signs and the correct methods of moving patients, along with first aid procedures and cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
An additional part of training deals with recording and reporting. You will learn to record basic data in assessments and be trained on how to report on the treatment and condition of patients.
One of the advantages of patient care technician training is that it can serve as a stepping stone to career advancement as a licensed practical nurse or registered nurse.
Prospective students often wonder what the difference is between the training in this field and that of certified nurse assistants. While the education for both lines of work involves instruction in direct patient care, the coursework for patient care technicians involves additional training in technical skills like drawing blood and administering electrocardiograms.
After you have gained the knowledge and mastered the skills, you will be ready to seek employment in a variety of settings as an indispensable member of the health care team. Your compassion will make a difference in the lives of the patients in your care, which is a factor that should give you much satisfaction throughout your career.
