How to Become a Patient Care Technician in Idaho
As the front lines of the healthcare industry, patient care technicians have significant contributions to make in every hospital, care home, and nursing facility. They have duties ranging from taking care of the meals and hygiene of patients to drawing blood and monitoring vitals. As a patient care technician, you will have tons of responsibilities on your shoulder, but you will be able to develop meaningful relationships with a variety of people on the regular.
If you live in Idaho and want to pursue a career as a PCT, here is everything you need to know about the requirements and classes of the state.
Requirements for Becoming a Patient Care Technician in Idaho
Every state has some specific requirements that you need to fulfill in order to become a patient care technician. The basic requirements include-
- Having a high school diploma or GED or an equivalent diploma.
- In Idaho, you need a bunch of skills to get a good job. So it’s best if you complete Phlebotomy and EKG training courses (if the PCT/CNA program doesn’t cover those)
- After completing the training program, you have to take the certification exam issued by the NHA. 1 year of experience can replace the need for program completion. The exam lasts for 1 hour and 50 minutes, with 120 questions, including 20 pretest ones. Training programs can usually cover the exam fees. You have to pass the certification exam to get the CPCT/A certification.
- Once you have passed the exam, you have to be listed under the Idaho Nurse Registry. For that, you have to take another test.
Discovering Patient Care Technician Education and Careers in Idaho
If you’re considering a fulfilling career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the scenic state of Idaho, this comprehensive resource is your guide to finding accredited schools—both online and in-person—and exploring the diverse range of Patient Care Technician employment opportunities in the Gem State.
Finding Patient Care Technician Schools in Idaho:
Online Programs: Explore accredited online programs that cater to various schedules. Look for institutions offering comprehensive PCT training, allowing you to study remotely and prepare for a rewarding career in healthcare.
In-Person Training: Idaho boasts several community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare training centers with in-person Patient Care Technician programs. Seek programs that include hands-on clinical experience to enhance practical skills and prepare you for real-world patient care.
Accreditation and Certification: Ensure the selected program holds accreditation from recognized healthcare education bodies. Verify whether the program prepares you for industry-recognized certification exams, such as the National Healthcareer Association’s (NHA) Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) exam.
Patient Care Technician Employment Opportunities in Idaho
Regional Hospitals and Medical Centers: Explore employment opportunities within regional healthcare facilities such as St. Luke’s Health System, Saint Alphonsus Health System, and Kootenai Health. These institutions provide a diverse range of patient care settings for aspiring PCTs.
Specialized Healthcare Facilities: Consider roles in specialized healthcare facilities such as rehabilitation centers, clinics, or outpatient surgery centers. PCTs in these settings contribute significantly to providing specialized care tailored to patients’ unique medical needs.
Long-Term Care and Assisted Living Facilities: Idaho’s growing senior population creates a demand for PCTs in long-term care and assisted living facilities. Explore opportunities to make a positive impact on the lives of residents by offering compassionate and dedicated care.
Home Healthcare Services: Investigate positions with home healthcare agencies across the state, providing personalized care to patients in their homes. This option allows for a more intimate and one-on-one patient care experience.
Educational Institutions and Research Centers: Explore opportunities within educational institutions and research centers offering healthcare programs. Some PCTs transition into roles as educators or clinical researchers, contributing to advancements in patient care and education.
Job Search Platforms: Leverage popular job search platforms such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn to discover current job openings for Patient Care Technicians in Idaho. Creating a professional online profile can enhance your visibility to potential employers.
Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in Idaho opens doors to a variety of educational opportunities and dynamic employment prospects. Whether pursuing online or in-person education, Idaho’s healthcare landscape provides a platform for PCTs to make a meaningful impact on patient well-being. Best of luck as you embark on your journey toward becoming a skilled and compassionate Patient Care Technician in the Gem State!
Patient Care Technician Classes in Idaho
Unfortunately, there is only one school in Idaho that offers a PCT training course, so you don’t have much of an option if you want to complete the program within the state.
College of Southern Idaho: Located in Twin Falls, the CNA program of this college lasts up to a year. But to get an Associate’s degree or a higher one, you will need more than two years or so. The class consists of 88 hours of classroom or lab and 32 clinical experiences led by an RN instructor. After that, you will be qualified to take the skills and written exam, which will place them on the Idaho CNA registry.
College of Western Idaho
Address: 5500 E. Opportunity Dr.
Nampa, Idaho ID
Phone: 208-562-3000
Online: Yes
North Idaho College Workforce Training Center
Address: 525 South Clearwater Loop
Post Falls, Idaho ID
Phone: 208-769-3333
Online: Yes