Patient Care technician classes

How to Become a Patient Care Technician in Washington

Getting into the healthcare field and making a stable career out of it is difficult and usually takes a long period of time. But not when you are planning to become a Patient Care Technician, PCT for short. The training program for this position is short and straightforward, but you still get to take over a significant amount of activities within the hospital. And due to the rise in demand, the salary is also quite satisfactory.

If you are in Washington, becoming a PCT is no big deal. Find out how to reach your goal here.

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Requirements for Becoming a PCT in Washington

Here are all the basic requirements you have to complete in order to have a chance at becoming a PCT-

  • You must be over the age of 18 and have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
  • You have to complete a PCT specialized or similar training program. It is a must to qualify for the certification exam. The program will contain clinical hours that you have to attend fully. The duration of the program may vary from school to school and degree to degree. An associate’s degree will typically require a couple of years.
  • The certification exam taken by NHA is usually the best one to go for if you want to get your PCT license. The exam you have to pass to be qualified to become a PCT is the CPCT/A exam. 1 year of experience in the field can replace the need for a specialized training program.
  • You must be listed in the Washington Nurse Registry before you start applying for a job, for which you will have to pass an exam.
  • Also, you must have a clean criminal background. You also have to pass the drug screening test.

Navigating Patient Care Technician Education and Careers in Washington

Embarking on a rewarding career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the dynamic state of Washington offers a variety 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 Evergreen State.

Finding Patient Care Technician Schools in Washington

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: Washington 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 Washington

Major Healthcare Systems: Explore employment opportunities within major healthcare institutions such as Providence Health & Services, UW Medicine, and Virginia Mason Medical Center. 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: Washington’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 Washington. Creating a professional online profile can enhance your visibility to potential employers.

Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in Washington provides a blend of educational opportunities and dynamic employment prospects. Whether pursuing online or in-person education, Washington’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 Evergreen State!

Patient Care Technician Classes in Washington

Here are some of the schools in Washington from where you can receive your PCT education.

Edmonds Community College
The PCT program consists of both classroom and clinical education. It will prepare you to work in a hospital environment under the direct supervision of a registered nurse. This program requires a total of 44 credits as outlined or a minimum of 38 credits with documentation of a valid CNA license in Washington state for completion.

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Seattle Central Community College
The CNA or NAC program of this college is only one quarter, but it prepares you fully for the role so that you can get entry-level positions in a variety of healthcare settings. The program is approved by the Washington State Nursing Care Quality Assurance Commission.

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