Best Patient Care Technician Schools in Nevada

Updated August 13, 2025

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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 Type Typical Duration
CNA 4-8 weeks
Phlebotomy 4-6 weeks
EKG 2-4 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 - Patient Care Technician Program

Location: Las Vegas, NV
Program Highlights:

  • Covers CNA, phlebotomy, and EKG training in one program
  • Includes clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities
  • Prepares students for national CPCT/A exam
    Website: https://www.csn.edu

2. Nevada Career Institute - Patient Care Technician

Location: Las Vegas, NV
Program Highlights:

3. Northwest Career College - Patient Care Technician School

Location: Las Vegas, NV
Program Highlights:

  • Flexible scheduling options including nights and weekends
  • Combines CNA, phlebotomy, and EKG with hospital skills
  • Includes career placement assistance
    Website: https://www.northwestcareercollege.edu

4. Pima Medical Institute - Nursing Assistant (PCT Track)

Location: Las Vegas, NV
Program Highlights:

  • Solid foundation in patient care and communication skills
  • Clinical experience in real medical environments
  • Option to continue into other allied health programs
    Website: https://pmi.edu

5. Great Basin College - Nursing Assistant Program

Location: Multiple campuses across Nevada
Program Highlights:

  • Affordable public college tuition rates
  • Strong CNA training that can be combined with other certificates for PCT readiness
  • Evening and weekend classes available in some locations
    Website: https://www.gbcnv.edu

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
  • Job placement support
  • 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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