Patient Care Technician Certification

This new Capstone class is open to all Seniors who have successfully completed Anatomy and Physiology with at least a "C" or better.

• What is a Patient Care Technician?

  • A Patient Care Technician works at patients' bedsides, taking care of their basic needs such as meals and hygiene. Under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses, a Patient Care Technician may be responsible for other medical-related care.

  • Much like a Certified Nursing Assistant, a Patient Care Technician would be responsible for taking vitals, assisting with bathing and toileting, monitoring food intake, and documenting basic care activities.

  • However, depending on the medical facility, a Patient Care Technician could also be responsible for administering specific medication, drawing blood for lab work, performing and managing wound care, removing stitches or staples, and administering other treatments like electrocardiograms.

• Can a graduate really go to work in a hospital or care facility immediately after graduation?

  • If a student completes the Anatomy and Physiology class, the Patient Care Technician class, and passes the National Patient Care Certification test, after graduation and once they turn 18 years of age, they will be considered licensed and legal to be employed as a Patient Care Technician.

  • These positions are available with these local employers:

    • Sutter Health Clinics and Hospitals

    • Kaiser Permanente Clinics and Hospitals

    • Emanuel Medical Center

    • Doctor's Medical Center

    • DaVita Renal Clinics

    • US Renal Care

    • Golden Valley Health Center

    • and many more!

• What if I want to be a nurse, doctor, or another specialist?

  • Great! Getting your Patient Care Certification is a step in the right direction. You will be required to attend more post-secondary training, but in the meantime, you can be employed, earn a salary higher than minimum wage, and gain professional experience while working as a Patient Care Technician.

  • You will need to research what field you want to enter and how much college/training is required for that field.

  • As long as you have completed your A-G requirements necessary for college admission, after graduation you can attend a trade school, community college, or 4-year university to continue your education toward your ultimate career goal.