How to Become a Patient Care Technician in New Jersey

In a hospital or other medical facility, many different types of employees perform different tasks. A patient care technician, for example, may be responsible for up to 60% of all activities in a medical facility. They communicate with patients on a daily basis and provide them with the finest possible care and comfort. They also carry out a number of common medical operations. As a result, their involvement is valued by both patients and healthcare professionals.

If you’re interested in this field, you might want to consider becoming a PCT. Here’s how you can achieve your goals if you reside in New Jersey.

Requirements for Becoming a Patient Care Technician in New Jersey

Here are the main requirements you have to fulfill to become a PCT in New Jersey-

You must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.

You must complete a PCT specialized training program or an equivalent one. It is required in order to sit for the certification exam. Clinical hours will be included in the curriculum, and you must attend all of them. The length of the curriculum varies from one school to the next and from one degree to the next.

If you want to earn your PCT license, the NHA certification exam is usually the best option. The CPCT/A test is the one you must pass in order to become a PCT. A year of on-the-job experience can substitute for the need for specialized training.

You must be registered with the New Jersey Nurse Aide and Personal Care Assistant Registry.

You must also pass a criminal background check and a drug screening test.

Navigating Patient Care Technician Education and Careers in New Jersey

Embarking on a fulfilling career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the diverse state of New Jersey opens doors to a plethora of educational opportunities and promising employment prospects. This comprehensive resource serves as your guide to finding accredited schools—both online and in-person—and exploring the landscape of Patient Care Technician employment in the Garden State.

Finding Patient Care Technician Schools in New Jersey

Online Programs: Explore accredited online programs designed to accommodate various schedules. Look for institutions offering comprehensive PCT training, enabling you to pursue your studies remotely while preparing for a rewarding career in healthcare.

In-Person Training: New Jersey hosts several community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare training centers offering in-person Patient Care Technician programs. Seek out programs that include hands-on clinical experience to enhance practical skills and prepare you for real-world patient care.

Accreditation and Certification: Ensure the chosen 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 New Jersey

Major Healthcare Systems: Explore employment opportunities within major healthcare institutions such as Hackensack Meridian Health, RWJBarnabas Health, and Atlantic Health System. These facilities offer diverse patient care settings, providing numerous opportunities for professional growth.

Specialized Healthcare Facilities: Consider roles in specialized healthcare facilities such as cancer treatment centers, rehabilitation institutes, or outpatient clinics. PCTs in these settings play a crucial role in providing specialized care tailored to patients’ unique medical needs.

Long-Term Care and Assisted Living Facilities: New Jersey’s diverse demographic 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 avenue allows for a more intimate and personalized patient care experience.

Educational Institutions and Research Centers: Explore opportunities within educational institutions and research centers that offer 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 New Jersey. Creating a professional online profile can enhance your visibility to potential employers.

Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in New Jersey provides a blend of educational opportunities and dynamic employment prospects. Whether pursuing online or in-person education, New Jersey’s healthcare landscape offers a unique platform for PCTs to contribute to the well-being of its diverse population. Best of luck as you embark on your journey toward becoming a skilled and compassionate Patient Care Technician in the Garden State!

Patient Care Technician Classes in New Jersey

There are a lot of schools in New Jersey that you can check out for your PCT training. Here are some of the best ones-

Ace Healthcare Training Institute
This institute offers a PCT program, but in case the program isn’t available, the CNA program can be pursued instead. In that case, you will also have to complete phlebotomy or EKG to gain all the required qualifications to become a PCT.