Free Patient Care Technician Training

Patient Care Technicians provide direct bedside care in hospitals and healthcare facilities. They monitor vital signs, assist patients with daily activities like bathing and dressing, help with mobility, collect specimens, perform basic EKGs, document patient information, and support the nursing team. PCTs work under the supervision of registered nurses and are essential members of the patient care team.

Our PCT program is designed to be completed in 8 weeks with part-time study (15-20 hours per week). The self-paced online format allows flexibility - motivated students can finish faster, while those needing more time can take longer. After completing the online training, students must complete a 100-hour clinical externship before taking the certification exam.

PCTs have an expanded scope of practice compared to CNAs. While both provide basic patient care, PCTs receive additional training in EKG monitoring, blood specimen collection, catheter care, and other advanced procedures. PCT training includes all CNA competencies plus these advanced skills, making PCTs more versatile in hospital settings. Many employers prefer PCTs for acute care positions.

While about 45% of PCTs work in hospitals, they're also employed in nursing homes (15%), rehabilitation centers (10%), home health agencies (12%), dialysis clinics (10%), and outpatient clinics (8%). Hospital positions typically offer higher pay and more advancement opportunities, but all settings provide valuable healthcare experience.

Excellent! The healthcare support field is projected to grow 8% through 2031, with 220,200 annual job openings nationwide. The ongoing nursing shortage has increased demand for PCTs in hospitals. Healthcare is recession-resistant, offering strong job security. Many facilities actively recruit PCTs and offer sign-on bonuses, tuition assistance, and career advancement programs.

PCTs earn between $29,990-$35,000+ annually depending on location, experience, and workplace. Hospital PCTs typically earn more than those in long-term care. States like California ($36,570) and New York ($37,940) offer higher wages due to cost of living. Many positions include shift differentials for evenings/nights/weekends, overtime opportunities, and comprehensive benefits.

The program is completely free to start and complete. You can access all training materials, practice exams, and student support at no cost. The only payment is the $950 total program cost when you're ready to work in the field. This one-time payment covers your entire program. Our pay-when-ready model saves you thousands compared to traditional programs.

While not legally required in most states, PCT certification is strongly preferred by employers and often required for hospital positions. Certification demonstrates competency, increases job opportunities, and typically results in higher starting pay. The AMCA PCTC certification we prepare you for is nationally recognized and validates your skills to employers.