Empower Your Healthcare Career: Patient Care Technician Certification in New Hampshire
Discover a fulfilling and thriving career as a patient care technician in the picturesque state of New Hampshire. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know to achieve PCT certification, including benefits, requirements, training programs, job outlook, and salary expectations in the Granite State.
Reap the Rewards: Advantages of PCT Certification
Professional Growth
Certification as a PCT can significantly enhance your job opportunities and make you more appealing to potential employers. They prefer hiring certified professionals who demonstrate their commitment to patient care and professional excellence.
Job Security
The healthcare industry’s steady growth ensures a strong job outlook and increased demand for certified PCTs. As the population ages and healthcare needs evolve, the need for qualified Patient Care Technicians will continue to rise, providing job stability and security.
Personal Fulfillment
Achieving PCT certification brings a sense of accomplishment and pride, enabling you to make a positive impact on patients’ lives. Your certification is a testament to your dedication to providing the highest quality patient care.
Navigate the Path: New Hampshire PCT Certification Requirements
Education
To become a certified PCT in New Hampshire, you must complete high school or obtain a GED. Afterward, enroll in a state-approved PCT training program that combines classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical externship.
Patient Care Technician programs typically cover some of the following topics:
- Patient safety
- Wound care
- Phlebotomy procedures
- Vital signs
- Medical terminology
Certification Exam
Upon completing your training, you’ll need to pass the Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) exam administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or another recognized certification body.
Background Check and Immunizations
Before embarking on your PCT career, you’ll need to undergo a criminal background check and ensure you’re up-to-date on required immunizations, such as Hepatitis B, MMR, and Varicella.
Top-Notch Training: Accredited PCT Programs in New Hampshire
Program Overview
PCT training programs in New Hampshire cover essential skills, including basic patient care, phlebotomy, EKG, infection control, and communication skills. These programs prepare you for a successful career by providing classroom instruction, lab practice, and clinical externship.
Accredited PCT Training Programs in New Hampshire
Here are some of the accredited PCT training programs available in New Hampshire:
- Lakes Region Community College in Laconia, New Hampshire offers a Medical Assisting program that prepares students for entry-level positions in the healthcare field. The program offers the opportunity to earn an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing, in preparation for the licensing exam.
- River Valley Community College in Claremont, New Hampshire provides students with the opportunity to pursue a Medical Assisting program. To complete this program, you need to complete 560 hybrid hours of classroom instruction within 18 weeks, and then complete a clinical practicum of 160 hours. After successfully finishing the program, you will be eligible to take the AMT RMA Examination for becoming a Registered Medical Assistant.
- Great Bay Community College offers an associate degree nursing program that meets the state education requirements for a Registered Nurse license in the states of New Hampshire and Massachusetts. The associate degree nursing program is approved by the New Hampshire Board of Nursing (NHBON).
PCT Job Responsibilities and Work Settings
Job Responsibilities
As a PCT, you’ll be responsible for various tasks, including:
- Providing basic patient care (e.g., bathing, dressing, and feeding)
- Monitoring vital signs
- Performing blood draws and basic lab tests
- Conducting EKG and other diagnostic tests
Work Settings
PCTs work in diverse healthcare environments, such as:
- Hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Home health agencies
- Rehabilitation centers
- Dialysis centers
New Hampshire PCT Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
Job Outlook
New Hampshire’s healthcare industry is experiencing steady growth of 7%, resulting in high demand for certified PCTs. Hospitals, nursing homes, and home health agencies are continuously seeking skilled professionals to provide quality patient care.
Salary Expectations
The average annual salary for PCTs in New Hampshire ranges from $30,000 to $50,000, depending on factors such as experience, education, location, and employer.
All Patient Care Technician Schools in New Hampshire
White Mountains Community College
2020 Riverside Drive
Berlin, NH 03570