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If you want to work in healthcare without spending years in medical school, becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a smart first step. PCTs work directly with patients, assist nurses, and play a key role in day-to-day care.
In Idaho, PCT training can be completed in under a year, and quality education is essential to get certified and find a job quickly. This guide will help you find the best Patient Care Technician schools in Idaho and outline the steps to start your career.
What a Patient Care Technician Does
A Patient Care Technician supports medical staff by assisting with patient needs. Duties often include:
- Monitoring vital signs
- Assisting with mobility and hygiene
- Collecting specimens for lab tests
- Performing electrocardiograms (EKGs)
- Providing basic wound care
Most PCTs work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics.
Idaho Requirements for Patient Care Technicians
Idaho does not license PCTs separately, but most employers require you to:
- Complete an approved Nurse Aide training program recognized by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.
- Pass the Idaho Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation.
- Obtain additional skills such as EKG operation and phlebotomy, which may be taught as part of a PCT program.
- Maintain CPR/BLS certification from the American Heart Association or another recognized provider.
Note: In Idaho, a Patient Care Technician must first be a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Most schools combine CNA training with extra coursework for PCT duties.
Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Idaho
Below are some institutions in Idaho that provide relevant training. Always verify the most current curriculum and costs before enrolling.
1. College of Western Idaho (CWI) - Nampa, ID
- Program: Nursing Assistant + PCT Skills
- Length: Approx. 12-16 weeks for CNA plus additional modules
- Highlights: Combines CNA certification with EKG and phlebotomy skills
- Website: https://cwi.edu
2. College of Southern Idaho (CSI) - Twin Falls, ID
- Program: CNA with advanced patient care courses
- Length: CNA portion takes about 10-12 weeks, plus optional add-ons
- Highlights: Emphasis on acute care skills for hospital settings
- Website: https://csi.edu
3. North Idaho College (NIC) - Coeur d'Alene, ID
- Program: Certified Nursing Assistant with specialty electives
- Length: One semester
- Highlights: Offers pathways into nursing programs
- Website: https://nic.edu
4. Idaho State University - Pocatello and Meridian, ID
- Program: CNA training with optional advanced patient care modules
- Length: Typically 8 weeks for CNA; extra weeks for skills add-ons
- Highlights: University's connection to healthcare networks
- Website: https://isu.edu
Program Comparison Table
| School | CNA Training Length | PCT Skills Included | Location(s) |
| College of Western Idaho | 12-16 weeks | Yes | Nampa |
| College of Southern Idaho | 10-12 weeks | Yes (optional) | Twin Falls |
| North Idaho College | 1 semester | Yes (electives) | Coeur d'Alene |
| Idaho State University | 8 weeks + addons | Yes | Pocatello, Meridian |
Steps to Become a Patient Care Technician in Idaho
Follow these steps to get started:
- Choose an approved CNA program - Must meet Idaho DHW standards.
- Complete training - Typically 120 hours, including classroom and clinical work.
- Pass the CNA competency exam - Required to be listed on the Idaho Nurse Aide Registry.
- Add PCT-specific skills - EKG, phlebotomy, and advanced patient care modules.
- Maintain certifications - CPR/BLS is usually renewed every two years.
- Apply for jobs - Hospitals and clinics often require experience; clinical rotations help.
Tips for Choosing the Right School
- Accreditation - Make sure the CNA portion is Idaho-approved.
- Added Skills - Look for EKG and phlebotomy training if aiming for a hospital position.
- Schedule Flexibility - Evening and weekend options help if you work while training.
- Clinical Partnerships - Schools with hospital connections often provide better job placement.
Career Advancement for PCTs in Idaho
A PCT role can be a stepping stone to:
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Medical Laboratory Technician
- EKG Technician
Many Idaho colleges offer bridge programs, so your PCT training can count toward higher credentials.
Summary and Next Step
If you want to work closely with patients and help medical teams provide quality care, training as a Patient Care Technician in Idaho is a fast, practical path.
Here's what you should do next:
- Pick one of the approved Idaho CNA programs listed above.
- Ask if they offer advanced modules for EKG and phlebotomy.
- Enroll, complete your training, and pass the CNA competency exam.
The sooner you get certified and start working, the sooner you can grow your skills and advance in healthcare.
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