How To Become a Patient Care Technician in Illinois 2025

Starting a career as a patient care technician (PCT) in Illinois is a practical way to enter the healthcare field and make a real difference in patients' lives. This article explains how to become a patient care technician, covering educational requirements, training options, and key skills. Whether you're just beginning your journey or looking to change careers, you'll find clear steps and helpful information to get started.

What Is a Patient Care Technician?

A patient care technician is a healthcare professional who works closely with nurses and doctors to support patients during their hospital stays or medical visits. They help ensure patients feel comfortable and cared for, often forming meaningful connections while providing essential assistance throughout the healthcare experience.

What Does a Patient Care Technician Do?

Patient care technicians handle a variety of hands-on tasks that support patients and the healthcare team. As part of a patient care technician's duties, they'll need to monitor vital signs, assist with personal hygiene, help patients move safely, and keep rooms organized.

They may collect lab specimens, perform basic procedures like EKGs, and report changes in patient condition to nurses or doctors. Additionally, they assist with feeding and mobility exercises, ensure comfort and safety, and offer emotional support.

How To Become a Patient Care Technician in Illinois

Becoming a patient care technician in Illinois is a rewarding path for those interested in healthcare and direct patient support. Below, we've outlined each step you'll need to follow to become a PCT.

1. Obtain a High School Diploma or GED

The first requirement is a high school diploma or equivalent (GED). This foundational education is necessary for admission to patient care technician educational requirements and demonstrates basic academic competency.

2. Enroll in a State-Approved Patient Care Technician Program

The next step is to apply to and complete a state-approved program. These programs typically last several months and cover essential topics such as:

• basic nursing skills
• phlebotomy
• EKG (electrocardiography)
• infection control
• patient communication

3. Complete Clinical Training and Externship

Hands-on training is a crucial component of any PCT program. During this phase, you will practice skills in a real healthcare setting under supervision, gaining experience in patient care, vital sign monitoring, specimen collection, and safe patient handling.

4. Obtain CPR and Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification

Most Illinois employers and training programs require current CPR certification and BLS certification. These courses teach you how to respond to medical emergencies and are often offered as part of the PCT curriculum or through organizations like the American Heart Association.

5. Pass the National Certification Exam

After completing your training, you are eligible to take a national certification exam, such as the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) exam offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). Passing this exam demonstrates your competency and may be required by some employers in Illinois.

6. Undergo a Background Check and Health Screening

Healthcare employers in Illinois typically require a criminal background check and health screening, including proof of immunizations and a tuberculosis (TB) test. These steps ensure the safety of both patients and staff.

7. Apply for Jobs and Begin Your Career

With your education, training, certification, and clearances complete, you can apply for patient care technician positions in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities across Illinois. Tailor your resume to highlight your skills and certifications, and prepare for interviews by reviewing common healthcare scenarios.

Patient Care Technician Training in Illinois

In Illinois, you'll find some great patient care technician programs that mix classroom learning with real hands-on experience. These programs help you build the right skills and get ready for national certification, making it easier to step confidently into a healthcare career.

• Moraine Valley Community College: The patient care technician program at Moraine Valley Community College prepares students for entry-level healthcare roles, with a focus on meeting the growing demand for patient care professionals as the population ages.
• Malcolm X College (City Colleges of Chicago): The PCT basic certificate at Malcolm X College provides foundational education for entry-level healthcare careers, emphasizing effective communication, cultural competence, patient safety, and evidence-based care, and prepares students to deliver safe and culturally competent patient care.
• Joliet Junior College: This program is designed to equip students with the skills needed for immediate employment in hospitals and clinics, and supports career mobility within the healthcare field.
• Oakton College: Oakton College's PCT program provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in local healthcare facilities and prepares them for nationally recognized certification exams.
• South Suburban College: South Suburban College's patient care technician program offers a blend of classroom and clinical experience, supporting students in transitioning directly into patient care roles in a variety of healthcare environments.

Types of Patient Care Technicians

Patient care technicians can work in a variety of specialized roles across different healthcare settings. Each position offers unique responsibilities and environments, allowing you to find a path that matches your interests and strengths. Below are some of the most common types of patient care technician jobs.

Hospital Patient Care Technician

Hospital patient care technicians work in general hospital settings, assisting with wound care, IV maintenance, personal hygiene, and vital sign monitoring. They interact with a wide range of patients and healthcare professionals, providing essential support for daily patient needs and ensuring a safe, comfortable environment.

Telemetry Technician

Telemetry technicians are based in intensive care units or cardiac units, where they perform electrocardiograms and monitor heart rhythms. Their main responsibility is to observe and report any changes in a patient's cardiac activity to doctors and nurses, playing a critical role in patient safety during and after surgery.

Dialysis Technician

Dialysis technicians specialize in assisting patients who require regular dialysis treatments due to kidney issues. They operate dialysis machines, monitor patients throughout the procedure, and provide reassurance and clear communication to help ease patients' anxieties during treatment.

Emergency Room Technician

Emergency room technicians work in fast-paced ER environments, supporting doctors and nurses with urgent patient care. Their duties include recording medical histories, taking vital signs, collecting lab samples, and maintaining communication between patients and the medical team during emergencies.

Home Health Aide

Home health aides provide care to patients in their homes, helping with daily living activities, basic medical tasks, and companionship. This role is especially important for elderly or disabled individuals who need ongoing support outside of clinical settings.

Orderly

Orderlies assist nursing staff with routine tasks such as transporting patients, cleaning and preparing patient areas, and ensuring that hospital environments remain safe and organized. This entry-level role is ideal for gaining experience in healthcare and supporting the broader care team.

Average Salary and Career Outlook

The career outlook for patient care technicians in Illinois is positive, with high demand supported by the state's large healthcare sector and aging population. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 4% growth in job opportunities for nursing assistants and orderlies nationwide until 2033, which is about as fast as average. However, home health aides are expected to grow by 21%, making it one of the fastest-growing healthcare careers in the state.

According to the BLS, the most relevant category for patient care technicians is 'nursing assistants,' as PCTs are typically grouped within this occupation for wage reporting. In Illinois, the average (mean) annual wage for nursing assistants is $27,770, and the average hourly wage is $13.35. Wages can vary by region; for example, nursing assistants in Danville, IL, earn a mean annual wage of $31,190, which is a bit higher than the state average.

What Skills Are Required To Become a Patient Care Technician?

Patient care technicians rely on a well-rounded skill set to deliver excellent care and work effectively within healthcare teams. These abilities help them handle daily tasks, connect with patients, and respond to the fast-paced demands of medical environments.

• Active listening: Being attentive to patients' needs and concerns ensures that care is personalized and issues are addressed promptly.
• Accuracy in recordkeeping: Carefully documenting patient information and observations helps maintain safety and supports the healthcare team's decision-making.
• Physical endurance: The role often involves lifting, moving, or assisting patients, as well as remaining on your feet for much of the day.
• Emotional sensitivity: Understanding and responding to patients' feelings creates a supportive environment and helps ease anxiety or discomfort.
• Skill with medical devices: Comfort and competence with tools like blood pressure monitors, EKG machines, and specimen collection equipment are essential for daily clinical duties.

FAQs About How To Become a Patient Care Technician

Below are some frequently asked questions that go beyond the basics of becoming a patient care technician in Illinois. These topics cover unique requirements, program features, and career considerations to help you better understand what to expect as you pursue this path.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement To Enroll in a Patient Care Technician Program in Illinois?

Yes, most patient care technician programs in Illinois require students to be at least 16 years old before enrolling. This age requirement ensures that students have the maturity and readiness needed for the responsibilities of patient care. Some programs may also require a reading proficiency at the 10th-grade level and a valid Social Security number for enrollment.

Do I Need To Be a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or EMT to Work as a PCT in Illinois?

In Illinois, you must be a certified CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) or EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) to work as a patient care technician. Many PCT programs encourage or require students to complete a Basic Nursing Assistant (BNA) or EMT course before or after their patient care technician training. This dual certification ensures you meet state guidelines and are eligible for employment in healthcare settings.

Are There Background Check or Health Screening Requirements for PCT Students?

Yes, patient care technician programs in Illinois typically require a criminal background check and a physical examination, which includes a tuberculosis (TB) test. Some schools may also request proof of health insurance coverage. These requirements are in place to protect patient safety and comply with healthcare regulations.

What Is the Difference Between a Patient Care Technician and a Medical Assistant?

While both roles support patient care, patient care technicians focus more on direct patient support, such as assisting with daily living activities, phlebotomy, and EKGs. Medical assistants often perform more administrative tasks, such as scheduling, billing, and basic clinical duties.

Does Illinois Require Patient Care Technicians To Be Listed on a State Registry?

Yes, after completing your training and certification, you must be listed in the Illinois Nurse Aide Registry to work as a patient care technician. This involves passing a state exam that includes written and practical components. Being listed on the registry is essential for legal employment in most healthcare facilities in Illinois.

Earn Your Degree Today

A career as a patient care technician in Illinois is a great way to start in healthcare and make a difference for patients every day. Explore online degree programs offered by the schools featured here on Learn.org to take the next step toward your healthcare career.