How To Become a Patient Care Technician in Ohio 2025

If you're looking for a meaningful healthcare career, becoming a patient care technician (PCT) in Ohio is an excellent option. Patient care technicians are essential members of the healthcare team, supporting patients and assisting nurses in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, and other care settings. These professionals are in high demand across Ohio, with job postings from major employers such as hospitals and dialysis centers regularly seeking qualified candidates.

Learning how to become a patient care technician opens doors to a variety of work environments, flexible schedules, and opportunities to make a real difference in patients' lives. With a growing job market and competitive salaries, this is both a practical and rewarding path for those interested in entry-level healthcare roles.

What Is a Patient Care Technician?

A patient care technician (PCT) is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of nurses or other medical staff to provide direct care and support to patients in settings such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. This role offers a fulfilling entry point into the medical field.

What Does a Patient Care Technician Do?

A patient care technician's role centers on supporting patient well-being and assisting the healthcare team. Patient care technician duties include monitoring and recording vital signs, collecting specimens for laboratory testing, assisting with personal hygiene, and helping patients with mobility and daily activities.

They keep patient rooms clean and sanitized, change linens, and ensure a safe environment. PCTs may perform basic nursing procedures, such as changing dressings or administering medications under supervision, and assist with EKGs (electrocardiograms) or dialysis when trained. They also provide emotional support, communicate patient concerns to nurses, and help educate patients' families about care needs.

How To Become a Patient Care Technician in Ohio

If you're thinking about how to become a patient care technician in Ohio, there are a few important steps you'll need to take. You'll need some education, hands-on training, and certification to make sure you're fully prepared for this important healthcare role. By the end, you'll have the skills and credentials you need to work confidently in a variety of healthcare settings.

1. Obtain a High School Diploma or GED

The first requirement is to have a high school diploma or GED. This is a mandatory prerequisite for enrolling in any patient care technician (PCT) training program in Ohio and for sitting for certification exams.

2. Pass a Criminal Background Check

You must have a clean criminal record to pass the required background check. This step is essential for gaining admission to most training programs and for future employment in healthcare facilities.

3. Enroll in a State-Approved Patient Care Technician Training Program

Next, enroll in a state-approved PCT training program. These programs are available at community colleges, vocational schools, and specialized healthcare training centers throughout Ohio. Training typically lasts from several weeks to several months, depending on the institution, and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience. Coursework covers topics such as:

• phlebotomy
• EKG
• patient care skills
• infection control
• medical terminology

4. Complete Required Clinical Practice Hours

Most programs require you to complete a set number of clinical practice hours. This hands-on experience is critical for developing practical patient care skills and is often a graduation requirement.

5. Obtain Additional Certifications (Optional but Beneficial)

Some programs offer or require additional certifications, such as CPR certification, phlebotomy, or EKG technician credentials. These can enhance your qualifications and make you more competitive in the job market.

6. Pass a National Certification Exam

After completing your training, you must pass a national certification exam, such as the CPCT/A exam (Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant) administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). The exam tests your knowledge and practical skills through multiple-choice questions and practical assessments. Passing this exam is necessary to become a certified patient care technician in Ohio.

7. Get Listed on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry (If Required)

Some employers may require you to be listed on the Ohio Nurse Aide Registry, especially if your role overlaps with that of a State Tested Nurse Aide (STNA). This may involve passing an additional exam and meeting specific state requirements.

8. Apply for Patient Care Technician Positions

Once you've earned your certification, you're ready to start applying for patient care technician positions across Ohio. Opportunities are available in hospitals, long-term care facilities, clinics, and outpatient centers, with roles often posted on job boards and hospital websites. You'll find positions in a range of specialties, including dialysis, emergency departments, and surgical units. Be sure to tailor your application and resume to highlight your training, certification, and any relevant clinical experience to stand out in this competitive field.

9. Maintain and Renew Your Certification

PCT certification typically must be renewed every two years. Renewal requirements include completing continuing education units (CEUs) and paying a renewal fee. Keeping your certification current ensures you remain eligible for employment and up-to-date with industry standards.

Patient Care Technician Training in Ohio

There are a variety of patient care technician programs available throughout Ohio, each offering different pathways to start your healthcare career. Whether you prefer flexible online learning, hands-on campus experiences, or specialized high school programs, you'll find options that can match your schedule and professional goals.

• Miami University Global Initiatives: This fully online patient care technician program allows you to start anytime and offers a certification exam voucher upon completion, making it flexible for working adults or those with busy schedules.
• Collins Career Technical Center: Designed for high school students, this program provides a pathway to multiple certifications, including patient care technician, phlebotomy, EKG, and Ohio nurse aide, preparing graduates for immediate entry-level healthcare roles or further education.
• Central Ohio Technical College: The patient care technician certificate program at COTC focuses on preparing students for employment in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, with an emphasis on hands-on clinical experience.
• Terra State Community College: This program awards a patient care technician certificate and is structured to help students quickly enter the workforce in medical assisting and patient care roles, with support for job placement after graduation.
• University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College: The microcredential in patient care technician at UC Blue Ash provides targeted training to enhance your skills and employability, making it a valuable option for those seeking to advance or shift into patient care roles.

Types of Patient Care Technicians

Earning a patient care technician credential opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities in healthcare. Based on your strengths and preferences, you can choose positions that emphasize hands-on patient care, specialized clinical tasks, or work in diverse settings like hospitals, clinics, and even patients' homes.

Hospital Patient Care Technician

Hospital patient care technicians work alongside nurses and doctors to support patients with daily needs, monitor vital signs, assist with mobility, and help maintain a safe and clean environment. This role is often fast-paced and offers exposure to a wide range of medical conditions and patient populations.

Dialysis Technician

Dialysis technicians specialize in caring for patients with kidney failure who require regular dialysis treatments. They operate dialysis machines, monitor patients during procedures, and ensure that all equipment is functioning properly. This role requires attention to detail and strong technical skills.

Emergency Room Technician

Emergency room technicians assist medical staff in emergency departments, providing urgent care to patients experiencing trauma or acute illness. Duties often include taking vital signs, performing EKGs, assisting with procedures, and helping stabilize patients in critical situations.

Home Health Aide

Home health aides deliver care to patients in their own homes, helping with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. They also monitor patients' health and report changes to supervising nurses, allowing patients to remain independent at home for as long as possible.

Phlebotomist

Phlebotomists are responsible for drawing blood samples from patients for laboratory testing. Patient care technicians with phlebotomy training can work in hospitals, clinics, or diagnostic labs, ensuring samples are collected safely and accurately.

Rehabilitation Technician

Rehabilitation technicians support physical therapists and other rehabilitation professionals in helping patients recover from injuries, surgeries, or illnesses. They assist with exercises, monitor progress, and provide encouragement to patients working toward regaining mobility and strength.

Monitor or Telemetry Technician

Monitor or telemetry technicians are responsible for observing and interpreting patients' heart rhythms using EKG equipment. They work in cardiac units or intensive care settings, alerting nurses and doctors to any irregularities in heart activity.

Orderly

Orderlies provide basic assistance in hospitals or long-term care facilities, such as transporting patients, cleaning rooms, and helping with non-medical tasks. This entry-level role is a good starting point for gaining experience in healthcare environments.

Average Salary and Career Outlook

The career outlook for patient care technician roles in Ohio is strong, with steady demand across hospitals, dialysis centers, clinics, and long-term care facilities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for nursing assistants and similar support roles-including PCTs-is expected to grow 4% nationally for the next 10 years, which is about as fast as average for all occupations.

Below, we've included verified salary information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS does not track every PCT role, but of the ones it does, we've listed it here for you along with how much the role is expected to grow in the next 10 years.

• Home health aide: $34,900 per year with a 21% growth
• Phlebotomist: $43,660 per year with an 8% growth
• Orderly (nursing assistant): $39,430 per year with a 4% growth
• Medical assistant: $44,200 per year with a 15% growth

What Skills Are Required To Become a Patient Care Technician?

To succeed as a patient care technician, you'll need a mix of technical abilities and personal qualities that help you support both patients and medical staff. These skills ensure you can provide safe, compassionate care while handling the demands of a busy healthcare environment.

• Communication skills: Patient care technicians must clearly and effectively communicate with patients, families, and the healthcare team to ensure everyone understands care plans and updates.
• Compassion and empathy: Showing genuine care and understanding for patients' needs and feelings is essential for building trust and providing emotional support.
• Attention to detail: Carefully following instructions, monitoring patients, and accurately recording information are critical for patient safety and effective care.
• Technical proficiency: PCTs need to operate medical equipment, perform procedures like phlebotomy or EKGs, and use electronic health records with confidence.
• Physical stamina: The job often requires standing for long periods, lifting or moving patients, and performing physically demanding tasks throughout each shift.

FAQs About How To Become a Patient Care Technician

If you're considering a career as a patient care technician in Ohio, you may have questions beyond the basic requirements and job duties. Below are some frequently asked questions that address the certification process, exam details, renewal requirements, and career distinctions to help you better understand this rewarding path.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Patient Care Technician in Ohio?

The timeline to become a patient care technician in Ohio depends on the training program you choose. Most programs can be completed in as little as a few months to one year. After completing your training, you'll need to pass a certification exam, which may add a few weeks for preparation and scheduling.

What Certification Exams Are Available for Patient Care Technicians In Ohio?

In Ohio, aspiring patient care technicians can take certification exams such as the CPCT/A exam (Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant) through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). These exams assess your knowledge and practical skills with multiple-choice questions and hands-on components. Exam registration and fees vary, so it's important to research your options before applying.

How Often Do I Need To Renew My Patient Care Technician Certification?

Patient care technician certification in Ohio must be renewed every two years. Renewal requires completing a specified number of continuing education units (CEUs) relevant to the Ohio Nurse Practice Act and paying a renewal fee. Keeping your certification current ensures you remain eligible for employment and up-to-date with industry standards.

What Is The Difference Between a Patient Care Technician and a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)?

While both roles involve direct patient care, patient care technicians are qualified to perform additional tasks such as drawing blood, conducting EKGs, and assisting with rehabilitation. These expanded responsibilities often mean PCTs can earn higher salaries and work in a wider range of healthcare settings compared to CNAs.

What Should I Expect During Patient Care Technician Training?

Patient care technician training in Ohio covers a variety of topics, including infection control, safety protocols, communication techniques, and the use of medical equipment. You'll also learn about patient assessment, basic life support, and emergency response procedures. Hands-on clinical experience is a key component, preparing you for real-world healthcare environments.

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