Defined by compassion and skill, set to grow 18 percent in the next decade, and the perfect stepping stone to more specialized work, the patient care technician position is an ideal way to step into a more successful and rewarding career. If you are ready to switch to a financially stable, in-demand career focused on helping others, then read this guide to learn more about how to become a patient care technician in Texas. You could be starting your new job in less than 6 months.

Earn a high school degree (or equivalent)

Almost anyone can study to become a PCT in Texas, because all you need is a high school diploma. If you did not complete high school, you can still pursue a PCT career. All you need is an equivalent certification through either the GED or by passing the Ability to Benefit Test. With the right certification in your hand, you are ready to turn your dream of a healthcare career into a reality.

Meet program eligibility requirements.

You may need to meet certain other requirements to enter a PCT training program. These eligibility requirements can vary from program to program, so do not be discouraged if you do not meet the requirements of the first program you consider

At Careers Unlimited, we keep our standards simple so you can more easily join the growing ranks of graduates working successfully as PCTs. Here are the requirements you must meet for our 5-month patient care technician course:

• Be at least 17 years of age
• Pass a criminal background check
• Pass an employee misconduct registry check (EMR)
• Pass a drug screening

Once you pass the required checks and screenings, you can enroll in a training program designed to make the path toward a successful future at your own pace and within your own budget.

Enroll in a reputable training program

You cannot become certified as a patient care technician and begin looking for jobs until you complete a reputable and accredited PCT training program. This program will teach you the skills and competencies you need to pass your certification exam and succeed in a PCT role in a variety of healthcare settings.

When choosing a program, look for one that delivers not only in-class teaching but also hands-on training from experienced mentors. Experiencing the job firsthand will develop skills that are very difficult to learn in a solely academic setting.

At Careers Unlimited, our course prepares you for an entry-level PCT position in any relevant healthcare setting. Over the 5 months of this program, you will learn all of the following:

• Completing basic medical tasks, such as taking vital signs
• Taking blood
• Administering medication
• Assisting with activities of daily living, such as eating, bathing, or toileting

Another consideration when choosing a PCT program is your schedule and lifestyle needs. If you are already working a job, or have family obligations, you may want a flexible program that fits around your schedule. At Careers Unlimited, you have the option to take classes in the evenings and on Saturdays in order to more conveniently pursue the career you desire.

Earn your PCT certification

Once you graduate from your PCT training course, you will need to take and pass a certification exam in order to become a certified patient care technician. One of the primary advantages of PCT training is that it sets you up to further specialize in a field of your choice. For example, our course prepares you to pursue certification not only as a PCT but also as a phlebotomist and EKG technician.

That means that once you complete your training, you can pursue one or more certifications that fit your career goals and preferences. We make it easy to access these exams so you do not experience any delay in your journey toward healthcare career success.

Apply for jobs

After you earn your certifications, you will be eligible to apply for positions throughout a wide variety of healthcare settings. Some of the many places where you can choose to work include home health care, hospitals, nursing homes, hospice agencies, physicians’ offices and community clinics.

When you pursue PCT training through Careers Unlimited, you enjoy career mentorship for life. We will happily help you with job placement, resume writing and other essential job-finding tasks. That, combined with the flexibility PCT training gives you, makes it easier than ever to find the perfect healthcare role.

Are you dreaming of a career in healthcare? Do you want to start a more lucrative and rewarding career? Then you may want to apply to Career Unlimited’s 5-month patient care technician course in Texas. Our Our courses offer you the opportunity to pursue not just the PCT role, but also other in-demand healthcare careers, such as medical nurse assistant, phlebotomist, network support specialist, clinical medical assistant, or CNA. Prepare for your future today and discover the opportunities  Careers Unlimited offers you!

 

Important Notice for Prospective CNA Students

While the insights shared in this post about renewing your Texas CNA license are applicable statewide, we want to make it clear that the hands-on components of our CNA courses are specifically held in person in McAllen, Texas.

For Our McAllen Locals: If you are based in or around McAllen, TX, and looking to renew or attain your CNA certification, we invite you to participate in our hybrid program that combines flexible online learning with essential in-person clinical practice at our local facilities.

For Students Beyond McAllen: Don’t worry if you’re not in the McAllen area! You can still benefit from our comprehensive online courses designed to provide the foundational knowledge you need in your journey to becoming a certified nurse assistant. Our virtual classes are crafted to bring flexibility to your education, allowing you to study at your own pace and on your schedule, wherever you may be in Texas.

Tailored to Your Needs: Careers Unlimited is committed to providing accessible and high-quality education to future healthcare professionals. Whether you’re right here with us in McAllen or joining from afar, we’re here to support your educational journey every step of the way.

For more information about our CNA programs, please visit our course page or contact us directly to discuss how we can accommodate your educational needs.