How To Become a Patient Care Technician in Pennsylvania 2025

Every day, patient care technicians make a real difference for people who need support the most. Whether you're helping someone feel comfortable during a hospital stay or assisting a nurse with important tasks, this role is both hands-on and rewarding.

If you're curious about how to become a patient care technician, this guide will break down patient care technician educational requirements, walk you through training and certification, and give you a clear look at job opportunities, salary, and what to expect in Pennsylvania.

What Is a Patient Care Technician?

A patient care technician (PCT) is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of nurses or doctors to provide direct care and support to patients in clinical settings such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. PCTs play a vital role in ensuring patient comfort and well-being throughout their healthcare experience.

What Does a Patient Care Technician Do?

A patient care technician's duties involve assisting patients with essential daily activities, such as helping them move safely, supporting hygiene routines, and ensuring their comfort during their stay. They will also monitor vital signs, collect lab samples, and provide basic medical care under supervision. PCTs help maintain a clean environment, offer emotional reassurance, and facilitate communication between patients and medical staff.

How To Become a Patient Care Technician in Pennsylvania

If you want to know how to become a patient care technician in Pennsylvania, there are several key steps. Each step is important to make sure you have the skills and credentials needed to succeed in this rewarding healthcare role.

1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED

The first step is to get a high school diploma or GED. This is required for admission to most accredited programs and shows you have the basic educational background needed for further training.

2. Meet Program Prerequisites

Before enrolling in a state-approved program, you may need to meet certain prerequisites. These can include placement tests, prerequisite courses, and submitting immunization records. Requirements vary by school, so check with your chosen training program.

3. Complete a State-Approved Patient Care Technician Training Program

You'll need to enroll in a state-approved program that offers both classroom instruction and hands-on training. These programs cover patient care skills, phlebotomy, EKG/ECG (electrocardiogram) skills, medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, infection control, and basic nursing procedures. Training can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the school and course load.

4. Fulfill Clinical Hours

Most programs require you to complete clinical hours in real healthcare settings. This hands-on experience is essential for building your confidence and patient care skills.

5. Pass Required Certification Exams

After training and clinical hours, you'll need to pass a written exam and a skills evaluation. Common certifications include the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) from the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and the Patient Care Technician (PCTC) from the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA). Some programs may also prepare you for dual certification, such as CNA and PCT.

6. Apply for State or National Certification

Once you've passed your exams, you can apply for official certification. This credential shows you are competent and can improve your employment opportunities and salary.

7. Seek Employment as a Patient Care Technician

With your certification, you can apply for jobs in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, long-term care, and home care. Employers may also require a background check and up-to-date immunization records.

Patient Care Technician Training in Pennsylvania

Several schools in Pennsylvania offer accredited programs that prepare students for CPCT/A or PCTC certification. These programs vary in format and focus, so you can find one that fits your needs.

• Saint Francis University: The patient care technician program at Saint Francis University is designed for high school students and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on clinical experience to prepare graduates for national certification exams.
• Clearfield County Career and Technology Center: This fully online, self-paced patient care technician program prepares students for the CPCT/A or PCTC certification exams and includes a voucher for one exam upon completion.
• Lancaster County Career & Technology Center: LCCTC's patient care technician program is offered in person for high school students and provides training in phlebotomy, EKG, and direct patient care, preparing students for national certification.
• Pennsylvania Highlands Community College: The patient care technician certificate at Penn Highlands is delivered in person and prepares students to sit for certification exams in phlebotomy, ECG technician, and patient care technician.
• Erie County Community College (EC3): EC3 offers an in-person patient care technician pathway for high school students, combining classroom learning with clinical experiences to prepare for the NHA CPCT/A certification exam.

Types of Patient Care Technicians

There are several types of patient care technician jobs in Pennsylvania. These roles let you work in different settings and focus on specific patient needs.

Hospital Patient Care Technician

Hospital patient care technicians work in hospitals, helping with wound care, IV maintenance, vital sign monitoring, hygiene, and grooming. They support nurses and doctors in providing comprehensive care and often work with a wide range of patients.

Telemetry Technician

Telemetry technicians monitor patients' heart activity, usually in intensive care units. They perform electrocardiograms (EKGs), watch for changes in heart rhythms, and alert medical staff if something is wrong.

Dialysis Technician

Dialysis technicians help patients with kidney failure by operating dialysis machines and monitoring patients during treatments. They also provide emotional support and make sure patients are comfortable during the process.

Emergency Room Technician

Emergency room technicians work in busy ERs, helping with patient intake, recording medical histories, taking vital signs, collecting lab samples, and supporting emergency procedures.

Rehabilitation Technician

Rehabilitation technicians help patients recover from illness or injury by supporting physical and occupational therapy sessions. They assist with exercises, monitor progress, and ensure safety during rehab activities.

Home Health Aide/Technician

Home health aides or technicians care for patients in their homes, helping with daily activities, monitoring health, and providing companionship. This role is great for those who enjoy one-on-one care.

Average Salary and Career Outlook

The career outlook for patient care technicians in Pennsylvania is strong. PCTs are in high demand because of the aging population and the need for healthcare support in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, long-term care, and home care. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for patient care technicians in Pennsylvania is about $48,770 per year. Entry-level jobs may pay less, but with experience and additional certifications, you can earn more. There are also many opportunities for advancement and specialization in allied health fields.

What Skills Are Required To Become a Patient Care Technician?

Patient care technicians need a mix of practical skills and people skills. These abilities help you deliver excellent care and make it easier to work with patients and healthcare teams. Here are some of the top skills needed for this role:

• Communication: Patient care technicians must clearly and compassionately communicate with patients, families, and healthcare team members to ensure everyone is informed and comfortable.
• Attention to detail: Carefully following instructions and monitoring patients for changes is essential for providing safe and effective care.
• Empathy and compassion: Demonstrating understanding and kindness helps build trust and provides emotional support to patients during difficult times.
• Technical proficiency: PCTs need to operate medical equipment, perform EKGs, and collect specimens accurately and safely.
• Physical stamina: The job often requires standing for long periods, assisting with patient mobility, and performing physically demanding tasks throughout the shift.

FAQs About How To Become a Patient Care Technician

If you're considering a career as a patient care technician in Pennsylvania, you may have questions about the field. Here are answers to some of the most common questions.

Can Patient Care Technicians Specialize in Certain Areas of Healthcare?

Yes, patient care technicians can specialize in areas like dialysis, emergency care, pediatrics, or cardiology. Specializing often requires more training or certifications and can lead to higher pay and more advanced roles. Many PCTs choose to focus on a particular patient population or type of care as they gain experience.

Is There a Difference Between a CNA and a PCT in Pennsylvania?

While both certified nursing assistants (CNAs) and patient care technicians (PCTs) provide direct patient care, PCTs are usually trained to do more clinical tasks, such as phlebotomy and EKGs. PCTs often have more advanced responsibilities and may work in a wider variety of healthcare settings than CNAs.

How Long Does It Take To Complete a Patient Care Technician Program In Pennsylvania?

The length of a patient care technician program in Pennsylvania depends on the school and format. Some programs, like those at Saint Francis University, can be finished in as little as 16 weeks (about four months), while others may take up to a year, especially if they are self-paced or part-time. Online programs may allow up to 12 months for completion, while in-person or hybrid options may be shorter.

What Advancement Opportunities Are Available for Patient Care Technicians?

Patient care technicians can advance in their careers by gaining more education and experience. With time, PCTs can move into roles like registered nurse, healthcare supervisor, or specialized technician positions. Many use their PCT experience as a stepping stone to further careers in healthcare management or nursing.

Are Patient Care Technician Certifications From Pennsylvania Recognized in Other States?

Most national certifications, such as the CPCT/A from the National Healthcareer Association, are recognized across the United States. However, if you plan to move, check the specific requirements of the new state, as some may have additional licensing or training standards for PCTs.

Earn Your Degree Today

If you're ready to start your career as a patient care technician in Pennsylvania, now is a great time to take the next step. Explore online and in-person degrees and training programs offered at the schools featured here on Learn.org to find the right fit for your goals.