How to Become a Patient Care Technician in North Carolina
Patient care technicians play an important role in every hospital, care home, and nursing institution. They are responsible for everything from the patients’ meals and hygiene to drawing blood and keeping track of their vital signs. As a patient care technician, you’ll have a lot of responsibilities, but you’ll also get to build important relationships with many different people on a regular basis.
If you live in North Carolina and wish to work as a PCT, this guide will teach you everything you need to know about the state’s qualifications and classes.
Requirements for Becoming a Patient Care Technician in North Carolina
In North Carolina, there are some basic requirements you have to adhere to in order to have a career as a PCT. These are-
- You must possess a high school diploma, a GED, or equivalent.
- You should enroll in and complete a PCT specialized training program or one that is equivalent to it. 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, but usually, you can complete it within a few months.
- The NHA certification exam is usually the best option if you want to earn your PCT license. The CPCT/A test is the one you must pass to become a PCT. The CNA test is also acceptable. A year of on-the-job experience can substitute for the need for specialized training.
- The North Carolina Nurse Aide Registry should have your name listed under it for you to be able to start professionally working as a PCT.
Exploring Patient Care Technician Education and Careers in North Carolina
Embarking on a fulfilling career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the diverse state of North Carolina opens up a world of educational possibilities and promising employment prospects. This comprehensive resource serves as your guide to finding accredited schools—both online and in-person—and navigating the landscape of Patient Care Technician employment in the Tar Heel State.
Finding Patient Care Technician Schools in North Carolina
Online Programs: Explore accredited online programs tailored to accommodate diverse 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: North Carolina 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.
Exploring Patient Care Technician Education and Careers in North Carolina
Patient Care Technician Employment Opportunities in North Carolina
Major Healthcare Systems: Explore employment opportunities within major healthcare institutions such as Duke Health, UNC Health, and Atrium Health. 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: North Carolina’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 North Carolina. Creating a professional online profile can enhance your visibility to potential employers.
Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in North Carolina provides a blend of educational opportunities and dynamic employment prospects. Whether pursuing online or in-person education, North Carolina’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 Tar Heel State!
Patient Care Technician Classes in North Carolina
Unfortunately, in North Carolina, there are not many schools or institutions that offer patient care technician programs. Here are a few Programs that provide Patient Care Technician programs.
Brunswick Community College
Address: 50 College Road
Bolivia, North Carolina NC
Phone: 910-755-7300
Online: No
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Address: 2201 Hull Rd
Fayetteville, North Carolina NC
Phone: 910-678-8400
Online: No