Patient Care Technician- Health Professions

The Patient Care Technician basic certificate prepares students for the National Healthcareer Certification’s (NHA) examination.

Note: Students are encouraged to take a BNA or EMT course before, or after they take Patient Care Technician Training. In order to work as a PCT in Illinois, you must be a certified CNA or certified EMT, as well.   

To Learn More About Program and Admissions:                      

About Program

The Health Professions–Patient Care Technician basic certificate provides the educational background required for pursuing a career in the healthcare industry. The curriculum covers the foundational knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to function as an entry level healthcare provider. The program focuses on student development in the following competencies essential to all healthcare providers: effective communication, accountability, cultural competence, use of information systems, and patient safety. Upon completion of the BC, students will demonstrate that they can deliver safe, culturally-competent, and evidence-based patient care.                 

Mission

The mission of the Malcolm X College Patient Care Technician Program is to prepare students for the NHA certification examination, which will support them in the PCT career field.                      

Program Outcomes

  1. Perform basic infection control practices in the Healthcare setting. 
  2. Use effective skills to draw blood and accurately label tubes 
  3. Perform basic 12-lead ECG technique and interpretation. 
  4. Perform basic patient care skills. 
  5. Communicate with a diverse patient population using written and oral communication and listening skills in interactions. 

Faculty and Staff