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Can you be a PCT without a CNA license?

By Rachel Acosta

Do you Have to be Certified to be a Patient Care Technician (PCT)? Because Patient Care Technicians (PCT) are vital to both patients and medical staff, they are required to be certified. A certificate from the state of potential employment is required in order to be hired as a Patient Care Technician.

Does a PCT have to be certified?

After you have completed a state-approved educational program and gained the skills and knowledge necessary to become a patient care technician, you will need to pass the certification exams required by your state and employer. You may consider taking a certification preparation course as you study for these tests.

How much does a PCT make in Virginia?

Salaries by years of experience in Virginia

Years of experiencePer hour
1 to 2 years$14.93
3 to 5 years$16.16
6 to 9 years$17.73
More than 10 years$18.11

What is a PCT certificate?

Certified Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) can work under the supervision of Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, physicians and other medical professionals to provide direct care to patients.

What are the duties of a Patient Care Technician?

Patient Care Technician Responsibilities:

  • Keeping patient rooms clean and organized.
  • Monitoring patient health and measuring vital signs.
  • Maintaining accurate patient records.
  • Assisting the healthcare team with administering treatments.
  • Collecting liquid samples or specimens for testing.

Can a PCT work as a phlebotomist?

In this role, the Patient Care Technician also functions as a phlebotomist by performing blood collection by venipuncture or dermal puncture, as appropriate. High School/GED or better.

What is the quickest nursing program?

If you’re itching to enter the field, the fastest way to become a nurse would be taking the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) route. While you wouldn’t actually be an RN, you could complete a Practical Nursing program and be well on your way to launching a nursing career in as few as 12 months.

What’s better PCT or CNA?

PCTs often perform more independent functions than CNAs, though they also report to nurses and doctors. A PCT has often undergone more training than a CNA to handle more aspects of a patient’s care, including duties such as: Assisting patients in motion exercises or physical therapy. Performing laboratory work.

How long does it take to be a PCT?

Like many other healthcare-related jobs, becoming a PCT requires a high school diploma and the completion of a state-approved training program, which can last from 20–27 weeks. Once the training is completed, CPCT/A certification is acquired by passing an exam.