How to Become a Patient Care Technician in New Mexico
A patient care technician’s job is to look after the patients’ smallest needs and problems in order to provide the best possible care and comfort while they get better. As a patient care technician, you’ll be responsible for a variety of fundamental medical activities, including vitals monitoring and phlebotomy. The job description is quite similar to that of a certified nursing assistant (CNA). But a PCT will have some additional responsibilities that they will be able to perform without supervision.
There are numerous options for pursuing a career as a patient care technician in New Mexico. Read on to learn everything about becoming one here.
Requirements for Becoming a Patient Care Technician in New Mexico
All jobs come with a set of minimum requirements, and PCT is, of course, no exception to that rule. Here are those requirements for you-
- A high school diploma or GED is required.
- A particular training program must be completed. Either a PCT or a CNA program will suffice. In order to learn more abilities, you will require CPR, phlebotomy, and EKG training. You should create separate programs for those courses if the program you choose does not already cover them. You can complete the training program in less than a year and gain a certificate, but earning an Associate’s degree or higher is preferable.
- Following completion of the program, you must pass the NHA certification exam. This can be replaced with one year of field experience. Anyone who has followed the training programs to the letter will pass the exam with flying colors. You will receive your PCT certification once you have passed the exam.
- To be placed on the New Mexico Nurse Aide Registry, you have to pass the certification exam. You can’t apply for a job in the state unless you’re listed there.
Navigating Patient Care Technician Education and Careers in New Mexico
Embarking on a fulfilling career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the enchanting state of New Mexico offers a wealth 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 Land of Enchantment.
Finding Patient Care Technician Schools in New Mexico
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 Mexico 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 Mexico
Major Healthcare Systems: Explore employment opportunities within major healthcare institutions such as Presbyterian Healthcare Services, UNM Health System, and Lovelace 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 behavioral health 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 Mexico’s aging 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 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 Mexico. Creating a professional online profile can enhance your visibility to potential employers.
Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in New Mexico provides a blend of educational opportunities and dynamic employment prospects. Whether pursuing online or in-person education, New Mexico’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 Land of Enchantment!
Patient Care Technician Classes in New Mexico
There are a few schools in New Mexico where you can receive your PCT training. Here are some of them-
Central New Mexico Community College
To earn a patient care technician certification from this college, you must demonstrate basic patient care competency by completing the Nursing Assistant Program or the courses required for the EMT-Basic program. This program will provide you with the knowledge you need to function as a patient care tech in the acute care setting.
New Mexico Junior College
The CNA course at this college is appropriate if you want to try to become a PCT. You will be taught in the classroom and will also practice in supervised clinical settings to provide direct care to patients. The course consists of one semester. You will have to fulfill some additional requirements before enrolling.
Brookline College - Albuquerque Main Campus
Address: 4201 Central Avenue N.W. Suite J
Albuquerque, New Mexico NM
Phone: 888-915-1136
Online: No
Central New Mexico Community College
Address: 900 University Blvd. SE
Albuquerque, New Mexico NM
Phone: 505-224-3000
Online: Yes
Universal Healthcare Training Institute
Address: 2617 Juan Tabo Blvd.
Albuquerque, New Mexico NM
Phone: 505-990-1958
Online: No
Doña Ana Community College
Address: 2800 Sonoma Ranch Blvd
Las Cruces, New Mexico NM
Phone: 575-527-7500
Online: No