Patient Care Technology, SCERT

Short-Term Certificate (SCERT-PCT)

About the Program

The Patient Care Technology Short-Term Certificate is designed to provide students with indepth instruction in the field of Patient Care Technology (PCT). This program will prepare students for employment in the expanding area of patient care. Skills obtained will allow for work in a variety of settings from acute care to home care.

Successful completion of this program will allow graduates to sit for six National Certification Exams which include: 1) the National Certified Patient Care Technician (NCPCT) Exam (after 1 year of employment as a PCT); 2) the National Registered Title of Certified Electrocardiography Technician (NRCEKG) Exam (immediately after completing the program); 1) the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (immediately after completing the program); 4) the National Certified Phlebotomy Technician (NCPT) Exam (after 1 year of employment as a PCT); 5) the Phlebotomy Technician Certification (CPT) (upon completion of PLB 100  and PLB 105 ; and 6) the National Registry of Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) Certification (upon completion of EMT 105 ).

Possessing the listed certifications provides the student with advanced skills, increased earning power and provide broader opportunities within the health care sector as options for employment.

Certificate Goals

• To prepare students for employment in the patient care technology industry through applied knowledge of patient caregiving
• To teach students the basic principles of safety as it relates to patient care in acute care facilities or home care
• To prepare students for six national certification exams

Certificate Outcomes

• Students will be able to identify and act upon basic patient care needs from taking vital signs to cleanliness and physical care of the patient
• Students will be able to perform electrocardiograms (EKGs)
• Students will be able to perform phlebotomy procedures (taking blood)
• Students will be able to perform CPR and first aid when necessary
• Students will be able to assist other medical professionals when necessary
• Students will be able to obtain individual credentialing through six national certification exams
• Students will be able to work independently or as a team member in patient care

Admission Requirements

Students are required to do the following:

• Fulfill all WCCCD admission requirements
• Fulfill course placement requirements based on ACCUPLACER^® assessment
• Complete a WCCCD Program Application and submit to the Campus Academic Officer
• Students must meet all health requirements
• Students must successfully pass a certified background check
• Must be 18 years of age or older