Patient Care Technician Certification in Iowa: Unlocking a Rewarding Career in Healthcare

Embarking on a fulfilling career as a patient care technician in Iowa is within reach for those committed to making a difference in the lives of others. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to become a patient care technician in Iowa, the certification requirements, accredited training programs, examination details, salary expectations, and job outlook. Get ready to embark on a journey toward a rewarding career in healthcare!

Search Patient Care Technician Programs

Get information on Patient Care Technician programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

Sponsored Listings

Introduction to Patient Care Technician Certification in Iowa

Patient care technicians play a crucial role in providing compassionate care and support to patients in various healthcare settings. By obtaining a patient care technician certification in Iowa, you can join this thriving profession and make a significant impact on the lives of your patients.

Iowa’s Certification Requirements

Education

To become a certified patient care technician in Iowa, you must first possess a high school diploma or GED. Next, you will need to complete a state-approved patient care technician training program to gain the necessary skills and knowledge for this career.

Training

State-approved training programs in Iowa combine classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. Additionally, candidates must complete a specific number of clinical hours and obtain CPR certification as part of their training.

Background Check

Before obtaining certification, applicants must undergo a criminal background check and verify that they have no record of abuse to ensure patient safety and compliance with state regulations.

Accredited Patient Care Technician Schools in Iowa

Several accredited training programs in Iowa can provide you with the education and training necessary to become a patient care technician. Some of these programs include:

Iowa Central Community College

  • Program details:
    • Length: 12 weeks
    • Cost: $1,200
    • Location: Fort Dodge, IA
  • Curriculum:
    • Classroom instruction
    • Hands-on clinical experience

Kirkwood Community College

  • Program details:
    • Length: 10 weeks
    • Cost: $1,100
    • Location: Cedar Rapids, IA
  • Curriculum:
    • Classroom instruction
    • Hands-on clinical experience

Des Moines Area Community College

  • Program details:
    • Length: 16 weeks
    • Cost: $1,600
    • Location: Des Moines, IA
  • Curriculum:
    • Classroom instruction
    • Hands-on clinical experience

Western Iowa Tech Community College

  • Program details:
    • Length: 12 weeks
    • Cost: $1,200
    • Location: Sioux City, IA
  • Curriculum:
    • Classroom instruction
    • Hands-on clinical experience

We can expect some of the following topics to be covered in a PCT training course:

  • Medical terminology
  • Phlebotomy procedures
  • Basic patient care
  • How to draw blood
  • Physiology
  • Medical terminology

Certification Exams

After completing an accredited training program, candidates can choose to take one of the following certification exams:

National Healthcareer Association (NHA)

  • Certified Patient Care Technician (CPCT) exam
  • Eligibility requirements:
    • Completion of a training program
    • High school diploma or GED
  • Test format:
    • 100 multiple-choice questions
    • 20 pretest questions
    • Time limit: 1 hour and 50 minutes
  • Test fees:
    • $155

National Association for Health Professionals (NAHP)

  • National Patient Care Technician (NPCT) exam
  • Eligibility requirements:
    • Completion of a training program
    • High school diploma or GED
  • Test format:
    • 110 multiple-choice questions
    • Time limit: 2 hours
  • Test fees:
    • $125

Advancement Opportunities

Patient care technicians can enhance their careers through continuing education, advanced certifications, and specializations. Some may choose to pursue further education and become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or registered nurses (RNs), which can lead to higher salaries and increased responsibilities.

Networking and Professional Organizations in Iowa

Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA)

Joining professional organizations, such as the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), offers numerous benefits, including networking opportunities, access to educational resources, and participation in annual conferences and events. Visit their website at https://iowahealthcare.org/ for more information.

Iowa Association of Community College Trustees (IACCT)

The Iowa Association of Community College Trustees (IACCT) provides members with valuable networking opportunities, access to job boards and career resources, and professional development opportunities. Visit their website at https://www.ccforiowa.org/ to learn more.

Iowa Board of Nursing

The Iowa Board of Nursing plays a critical role in the certification and licensure process for patient care technicians. They ensure compliance with state regulations, provide information on training programs and requirements, and offer resources for professional development. Visit their website at https://nursing.iowa.gov/ for additional details.

Recertification and Continuing Education

Recertification Requirements

Patient care technicians in Iowa must renew their certification every two years. The recertification process typically involves completing a specific number of continuing education units (CEUs), providing proof of competency, and maintaining an updated CPR certification.

Continuing Education Resources

Continuing education is essential for staying current in the healthcare field. Patient care technicians can access various resources, such as online courses, workshops, seminars, and in-person classes offered by community colleges or healthcare organizations.

Salaries and Job Outlook in Iowa

Salaries

In Iowa, patient care technicians can expect to earn an average salary ranging from $30,000 to $35,000 per year. Factors that may influence salary include experience, location, and the type of facility in which the technician works.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for patient care technicians in Iowa is promising, with a projected job growth of 13% between 2020 and 2030. Several factors contribute to this growth, including an aging population, increased demand for healthcare services, and the expansion of long-term care facilities.

All Patient Care Technician Schools in Iowa

Kirkwood Community College

6301 Kirkwood Blvd. SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center

1111 6th Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50314