what is a pct in healthcare

A Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a healthcare technician who works under the supervision of a nurse, doctor, or other health professional to administer basic care to patients. They provide daily care for patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and doctors offices while under the supervision of a registered nurse or nursing staff. PCTs work at patients' bedsides, taking care of basic needs such as meals and hygiene, similar to a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) . However, PCTs usually have more training that allows them to complete other tasks as well. Some of the essential duties that may be expected of a PCT include helping patients with mobility issues, helping patients in and out of bed, assisting patients during exercise, and tracking a patient's progress during care, including physical therapy. PCTs also check blood pressure, heart rate, and pulse, monitor food intake, oversee patient medications, help sterilize patient rooms when necessary, ensure bedridden patients don’t suffer from bedsores, and accompany patients to x-ray rooms, among other duties. PCTs are trained in basic medical skills in addition to patient advocacy and safety. They can administer specific medications, draw blood for lab work, operate some medical monitoring equipment, begin or discontinue specific catheters, perform and manage wound care, remove stitches or staples, and administer electrocardiograms, among other duties.