How to Become a Patient Care Technician in Arizona

Patient care technicians (PCTs) are essential members of the healthcare team, providing direct care and support to patients in various healthcare settings in Arizona. Becoming a certified PCT can demonstrate your commitment to professionalism and your expertise in patient care. In this article, we will discuss how to become a certified patient care technician in Arizona, including eligibility requirements, certification exam overview, registration, programs in the state, salaries, job outlook, and career opportunities.

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Eligibility Requirements for Certification Exam in Arizona

To be eligible to take the certification exam in Arizona, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Have a high school diploma or GED
  • Completed an accredited patient care technician training program or have equivalent work experience
  • Possess a valid government-issued identification

Patient Care Technician Certification in Arizona

The certification exam is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) and covers a range of topics related to patient care, including medical procedures, vital signs, and infection control. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours. To pass the exam, you need to score at least 70%.

Registering for the Certification Exam in Arizona

To register for the certification exam in Arizona, follow these steps:

  • Visit the NHA website and create an account
  • Fill out the application form and submit it
  • Pay the exam fee, which is typically around $149

Tips for Preparing for the Certification Exam

To increase your chances of passing the certification exam, follow these tips:

  • Review the exam content outline provided by the NHA
  • Use study materials, such as practice exams and study guides, which are available on the NHA website
  • Practice time management to ensure you have enough time to answer all the questions
  • Get enough rest before the exam day
  • Arrive early on the exam day to avoid stress and anxiety

Patient Care Technician Programs in Arizona

To become a certified nursing assistant or patient care technician in Arizona, you must complete an accredited patient care technician training program or have equivalent work experience. Some ways to find PCT training programs in Arizona include:

  • Check with local community colleges, vocational schools, and patient care technician schools.
  • Search online for PCT training programs in Arizona.
  • Contact healthcare facilities in Arizona to inquire about PCT training programs they may offer.

Arizona is home to some of the following Patient Care Technician Schools:

  • Arizona Medical Training Institute offers various programs which include but is not limited to Certified nursing assistant, EKG recognition, a paramedic program, and much more!
  • Eastern Arizona College offers a patient care technician program which provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to become successful in the healthcare field. The program prepares graduates for entry-level positions as PCTs, nursing assistants, or medical assistants.
  • Pima Medical Institute offers an online Patient Care Technician program that prepares students for a career as a patient care technician. Students will learn how to take vital signs, assist with basic nursing tasks, and provide patient care in hospitals, clinics, and physician offices.

Career Opportunities for Certified Patient Care Technicians in Arizona

Certified PCTs have promising career opportunities in Arizona’s growing healthcare industry. Some career paths for PCTs include:

  • Working in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and other healthcare facilities in Arizona
  • Working in specialty areas, such as oncology or pediatrics, or in home health or hospice care, providing direct patient care in the patient’s home

Salaries for Patient Care Technicians in Arizona

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a patient care technician in Arizona is $38,000 per year. Salaries may vary depending on the employer, location, and experience of the PCT.

Job Outlook for Patient Care technicians in Arizona

The job prospects for nursing assistants, including patient care technicians, are expected to grow 8% from 2020 to 2030 in Arizona. PCTs typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and other healthcare facilities in Arizona. PCTs may also work in specialty areas, such as oncology or pediatrics, or in home health or hospice care, providing direct patient care in the patient’s home.

All Patient Care Technician Schools in Arizona

Arizona Medical Training Institute

1530 N. Country Club Drive, Suite 11
Mesa, AZ 85201

Brookline College

2445 W Dunlap Ave, Suite 100
Phoenix, AZ 85021

Providence Training Institute

9189 North 59TH Avenue
Glendale, AZ 85302

Pima Medical Institute – East Valley Campus

2160 S. Power Road
Mesa, AZ 85206

Phoenix College Downtown

640 North 1st Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85003

Arizona Technical Training Institute

12633 N Cave Creek Rd, Suite 104
Phoenix, AZ 85022

Resilient Healthcare Academy

10000 N 31st Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85051

Eastern Arizona College

615 N Stadium Avenue
Thatcher, AZ 85552