Patient Care Technician- Health Professions
About The Patient Care Technician (PCT) Program:
A Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a vital member of the healthcare team who provides direct, hands-on support to patients in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care settings. PCTs assist with daily care needs, monitor vital signs, promote patient comfort and safety, and collaborate closely with nurses and other healthcare professionals to deliver compassionate, high-quality care.
This credential is an advanced, skills-focused addition for individuals who are already trained as Basic Nursing Assistants/Certified Nursing Assistants (BNA/CNA) and/or Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT).
Program Requirements:
Completion of a BNA/CNA training program is required to satisfy the STHLTH 624 course requirement. This requirement may be fulfilled by:
- Completing the Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program at Malcolm X College, part of City Colleges of Chicago, Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program – City Colleges of Chicago or
- Providing proof of active CNA/BNA certification listed on the Health Care Worker Registry.
To work as a Patient Care Technician in Illinois, individuals must hold a current CNA or EMT certification in accordance with state regulations and guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health.
About the Program:
The Patient Care Technician Basic Certificate program provides the educational foundation needed to pursue a career in the healthcare field. The curriculum aligns with state standards and prepares students with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies required for modern patient care.
Designed to upskill CNA/BNA professionals, the program emphasizes:
- Effective communication
- Professional accountability
- Cultural competence
- Use of healthcare information systems
- Patient safety and quality care
Upon completion of the Basic Certificate, students will be prepared to deliver safe, culturally responsive, and evidence-based patient care across a variety of healthcare settings.
Note: This program requires completion of a BNA/CNA program to satisfy the STHLTH 624 class. This requirement can be either taken at Malcolm X College (Basic Nursing Assistant Training Program – City Colleges of Chicago) or by providing evidence of Certification in CNA/BNA (Health Care Worker Registry). In order to work as a PCT in Illinois, you must be a certified CNA or certified EMT.
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
- Perform basic infection control practices in the Healthcare setting.
- Use effective skills to draw blood and accurately label tubes
- Perform basic 12-lead ECG technique and interpretation.
- Perform basic patient care skills.
- Communicate with a diverse patient population using written and oral communication and listening skills in interactions.
