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 in-depth instruction to become a Patient Care Technician. 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.

Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be eligible to sit for the following examinations through the National Healthcareer Association (NHA): 1) Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A); 2) Phlebotomy Technician Certification (CPT); and 3) Certified EKG Technician (CET).

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 as a Patient Care Technician 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 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 the National Healthcareer Association (NHA)
• 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