Advanced Patient Care Skills
Prepare to Become a Patient Care Technician
If you have a current CNA license, you can increase your knowledge and train to work as a patient care technician in hospitals and other health care settings. Patient care technicians are part of a multidisciplinary team, caring for patients who require acute care as well as chronic care.
Advanced Patient Care Skills
In four weeks, you can be ready for a new career as a patient care technician. For your convenience, this course is offered as a hybrid experience, combining online and classroom instruction. HCC’s partnerships with area hospitals, businesses, and organizations provide aspiring patient care technicians with unique opportunities for rewarding careers.
The entire course is 96 hours. You will earn 9.6 CEUs upon completion of the course. Digital badge eligible (DB).
-
Course Topics
-
After Completing The Course
Patient Care Technicians (PCTs) play a vital role in supporting patients and healthcare teams by combining advanced clinical skills with compassionate, hands‑on care. This course provides comprehensive instruction in both theory and skill application to prepare students for the expanded responsibilities of the PCT role across a variety of healthcare settings. The curriculum aligns with the National Healthcare Association (NHA) Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) standards.
Students will build upon foundational Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) skills while receiving additional training in areas such as interdisciplinary communication, respiratory and wound care, urinary and ostomy care, blood glucose and EKG monitoring, and phlebotomy. Emphasis is placed on patient‑centered communication with the primary nurse, technical proficiency, and efficiency in fast‑paced clinical environments.
Students will also deepen their understanding of anatomy, physiology, and safety protocols, applying these concepts through instructor‑led skill development and assessment. Professionalism, ethical care, and adaptability to diverse patient needs are woven throughout the curriculum.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will meet the minimum requirements to prepare for the CPCT certification exam through the NHA.
Students must have a current CNA license and proof of medical insurance. Student must be 18 years old. Book is included in the tuition. No refund given seven days prior to start date. Contact NonCreditAlliedHealth@HowardCC.edu for additional information. Digital badge eligible (DB). 9.6 CEUs.