Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Nevada

If you want to work in healthcare without spending years in school, becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a practical choice. In Nevada, good training programs can prepare you for certification and help you step into a hospital, clinic, or long-term care role quickly.

The most important step is choosing the right school. Below you’ll find the best PCT training options in Nevada, along with the requirements you need to meet.

What a Patient Care Technician does

A Patient Care Technician works under nurses and doctors to provide basic care to patients. Duties often include:

  • Checking vital signs
  • Drawing blood
  • Assisting with daily living activities
  • Performing EKGs
  • Helping patients move and stay safe

You’ll get both classroom instruction and hands-on training during your program, so you’re ready for real-world work.

Nevada requirements for Patient Care technicians

Nevada does not have a single state license just for PCTs. Instead, you need training and certification in skills such as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Phlebotomy, and EKG. Most PCT programs combine these into one course.

The Nevada State Board of Nursing requires CNA applicants to complete an approved training program and pass the competency exam before working in any direct care setting.

After completing your program, you may choose to take the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) exam.

How long training takes

Here’s what to expect for program lengths in Nevada:

Training TypeTypical Duration
CNA4-8 weeks
Phlebotomy4-6 weeks
EKG2-4 weeks
Full PCT Program (combined)12-20 weeks

Some schools offer accelerated schedules, while others run evening or weekend courses for working students.

Best Patient Care Technician schools in Nevada

The schools below are known for quality healthcare training, experienced instructors, and solid job preparation.

#1

College of Southern Nevada

Las Vegas, NV In-state option

Located in Las Vegas, NV College of Southern Nevada is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.

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#2

Nevada Career Institute

Las Vegas, NV In-state option

Located in Las Vegas, NV Nevada Career Institute is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Dental Assistant, Medical Assistant, and Pharmacy Technician.

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#3

Northwest Career College

Las Vegas, NV In-state option

Located in Las Vegas, NV Northwest Career College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Criminal Justice, Dental Assistant, and Energy Efficiency Technician.

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#4

Great Basin College

Elko, NV In-state option

Located in Elko, NV Great Basin College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Automotive Technician, Accounting Technology, and Bookkeeper.

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Steps to become a Patient Care Technician in Nevada

  1. Complete an Approved CNA Program - This is the foundation for all PCT roles in Nevada.
  2. Add EKG and Phlebotomy Training - Either through your PCT program or as separate certificates.
  3. Pass the Nevada CNA Exam - Required to work in long-term and acute care facilities.
  4. Consider the CPCT/A Exam - This national certification can make you more competitive.
  5. Apply for Jobs - Hospitals, nursing homes, dialysis centers, and home health agencies are common employers.

Choosing the right school

When comparing PCT programs, ask about:

  • Accreditation and state approval status
  • Classroom-to-clinical balance
  • Certification exam. Pass rates
  • career services
  • Schedules that fit your life

Do not pick a school based only on speed or cost. Quality training is worth the investment.

Summary and next steps

If you want a direct route into healthcare, Nevada’s Patient Care Technician programs give you the skills employers need. Start by reviewing the schools above, visiting their campuses, and asking to see their curriculum and clinical sites.

Here’s what you need to do next:

  • Decide on your preferred location and schedule.
  • Contact at least two programs for admissions details.
  • Verify the school prepares you for both the Nevada CNA exam and national PCT certifications.

The sooner you complete training, the sooner you can start helping patients and building your career in healthcare.


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