Course

Objective:

Learning Outcomes:

• Identify the job duties of a patient care technician, professional traits that are necessary for this position, and the benefits of obtaining national certification.
• Describe the common legal issues related to patient care, including HIPAA regulations as well as medication administration.
• Apply soft skills, including teamwork, time management, organization, multitasking, dependability, and empathy, when caring for patients and interacting with family members, caregivers, and healthcare team members.
• Communicate with a diverse patient population using nonverbal, verbal, and written communication skills as well as listening skills in interactions.
• Demonstrate infection-control and safety best practices while performing basic patient care within the role of the PCT.
• Describe the role of the patient care technician when assisting with examinations and obtaining vital signs.
• Explain physical examination positions and techniques as well as the preparation and maintenance of the exam room.
• Describe procedures used to provide personal comfort and care to patients, including hygiene, grooming, toiletry, bathing, dressing, and assisting with oxygen.
• Summarize procedures used for patient nutrition and fluid intake, elimination, ostomy care, and rounding.
• Demonstrate range-of-motion exercises and describe how to utilize assistive devices to manage a variety of ambulation-related activities.
• Describe how to perform phlebotomy procedures including venipuncture, capillary collections, documentation, and communication with the patient.
• Explain non-blood specimen-collection processes to patients, respond to adverse patient reactions, and summarize labeling, documentation, and transport-handling requirements for non-blood specimens.
• Discuss geriatric care; care for patients with cancer, HIV, AIDS, or terminal illnesses; and support for patient family members, as well as postmortem care procedures.
• Summarize certification-exam preparation and study strategies.
• Summarize the organization and development of the human body.
• Define medical surgery terminology and explain the role of the patient care technicians when assisting with surgeries.
• Discuss the role of the patient care technician in supporting restorative care and rehabilitation for patients with diverse needs.
• Prepare for the job search by researching companies and salaries, creating an effective résumé and cover letter, and practicing interview techniques.
• Recognize emergency situations in a medical office and how to respond appropriately.
• Explain the proper handling and administration of medications in healthcare settings.
• Describe preventative positioning and procedures utilized to prevent, identify, and treat pressure injuries.
• Explain patient-transfer precautions and techniques, as well as wheelchair components, wheelchair types, and assisted and independent wheelchair activities.
• Describe the role of the patient care technician when assisting with electrocardiography and Holter monitor procedures.
• Explain special care considerations for pregnant and pediatric patients, patients with mental illness, and patients with dementia, Alzheimer's, and similar diseases.

General Topics: