Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Colorado

If you want to work directly with patients in a hospital, clinic, or long-term care setting, training as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a practical next step. In Colorado, you can complete a PCT program in under a year, and many schools help you prepare for national certification.

Below, you'll find the best patient care technician schools in Colorado, what to expect in training, and key steps to get certified.

What a Patient Care Technician Does

A PCT supports nurses and medical staff by helping patients with daily activities and basic healthcare needs. This may include:

• Checking vital signs
• Assisting with personal hygiene
• Providing mobility support
• Collecting lab samples
• Recording patient information

Many PCTs also have phlebotomy and EKG training as part of their skills set. This makes them more valuable in hospital or outpatient settings¹.

Training Requirements in Colorado

Colorado does not license patient care technicians separately. Instead, employers expect candidates to complete a state-approved Nurse Aide program first, then build on that training with PCT-specific skills.

Most Colorado employers prefer or require graduates to have CNA certification before applying for PCT positions.

Important: In Colorado, to work as a patient care technician in a hospital, most hiring managers will require CNA certification plus PCT training, and sometimes phlebotomy credentials.

Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Colorado

Here are some top training options. Always check the school's accreditation, costs, and schedules before enrolling.

How to Choose the Right Program

When picking a patient care technician school in Colorado, look at:

1. Accreditation - Make sure the school is approved by the Colorado Board of Nursing for CNA training.
2. Certification Prep - Ensure the program includes preparation for the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or similar exams.
3. Clinical Hours - Verify that clinical rotations are included and meet state CNA requirements.
4. Flexible Scheduling - Check if evening or weekend classes are offered if you plan to work while studying.
5. Job Placement Support - Some schools work directly with hospitals for graduate hiring.

Steps to Become a Patient Care Technician in Colorado

Follow this general path to start your career:

1. Complete a CNA program approved by the Colorado Board of Nursing.
2. Pass the CNA competency exam to be listed on the Colorado Nurse Aide Registry.
3. Enroll in a PCT program that teaches advanced skills including EKG and phlebotomy.
4. Complete clinical training required for your certification exam.
5. Earn national certification such as Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) with the NHA².
6. Apply for jobs in hospitals, long-term care facilities, or outpatient clinics.

Certification Details

Most employers in Colorado look for the CPCT/A credential from the National Healthcareer Association or similar certification from another recognized body.

To qualify for the CPCT/A exam, you must:

• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Complete a qualified training program within the past 5 years
• Provide proof of clinical competency

Test topics often include patient care, safety, infection control, and basic medical procedures.

Additional Skills That Increase Job Opportunities

While not always required, adding the following skills can make you a stronger candidate:

• Phlebotomy Technician Certification
• EKG Technician Certification
• Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification
• Familiarity with Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems

Tips for Succeeding in Training

• Practice consistently - Skills like taking vitals and drawing blood get easier with repetition.
• Ask for feedback during clinical rotations.
• Keep your immunizations and background checks up-to-date for placement eligibility.
• Network with instructors and classmates; they can be helpful when looking for jobs.

Summary and Next Steps

To become a patient care technician in Colorado, start with a CNA program, then expand your skills through a PCT training program at an accredited school. Most programs take less than a year and prepare you for national certification.

Next Steps:

1. Review the schools listed above and contact their admissions offices.
2. Confirm program costs, schedules, and clinical partnerships.
3. Start with CNA certification, then progress to PCT and optional advanced certifications.

Your training investment can open the door to steady work in hospitals and clinics across Colorado.

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