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If you want to work in healthcare but don't want to spend years in school, becoming a Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a strong choice. PCTs work in hospitals, nursing homes, dialysis centers, and home health settings. Your training will give you skills in basic nursing care, phlebotomy, EKG testing, and patient support.
In New Jersey, you can complete a PCT program in a matter of months. The key is choosing the right school - one that fits your budget, schedule, and career goals. Here's what you should know and where to get the training.
What to Look for in a PCT School
When comparing patient care technician programs in New Jersey, focus on:
- Accreditation - Look for schools approved by the New Jersey Department of Education or accredited agencies like the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
- Program length - Many PCT programs take between 4 to 8 months full time, or longer if you study part time.
- Clinical experience - Make sure the program includes hands-on clinical hours in a real healthcare setting.
- Certification preparation - You should graduate ready to take certifications like the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) exam.
- Job placement assistance - Some schools have employer partnerships to help you find work faster.
Top Patient Care Technician Schools in New Jersey
Below are reputable options for PCT training in the state. Always confirm program details directly with the school, as offerings change.
| School | Location | Program Length | Notable Features |
| Lincoln Tech | Iselin, Moorestown, Paramus | 6-9 months | Multiple NJ campuses, EKG & phlebotomy included |
| Eastwick College | Ramsey, Hackensack, Nutley | ~9 months | Combines PCT with Medical Assisting training |
| HTC - Healthcare Training Center | Union | 6 months | Flexible schedules, CNA exam prep |
| Pennco Tech | Blackwood | 6 months | Emphasis on hospital and long-term care skills |
| ACI Medical & Dental School | Eatontown | ~5 months | Small class sizes, high certification pass rates |
| American Institute of Medical Sciences & Education (AIMS) | Piscataway | 4-6 months | Includes dialysis and patient care modules |
Training Overview
A New Jersey PCT training program generally includes:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) fundamentals
- Phlebotomy - drawing blood and lab specimen handling
- EKG - basic cardiac monitoring skills
- Patient care procedures - bathing, dressing, mobility assistance
- Infection control
- Vital signs monitoring
- Electronic health records basics
Most programs split time between classroom instruction and a supervised clinical externship in a healthcare facility.
In New Jersey, patient care technicians often need CNA certification before employment in certain facilities, according to the New Jersey Department of Health.
Certification and Licensing in New Jersey
Unlike registered nurses, patient care technicians in New Jersey are not licensed by the state. However, most employers require certain certifications:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) - regulated by the New Jersey Department of Health.
- Phlebotomy Technician Certification - often through the NHA or another national certifying agency.
- EKG Technician Certification - also through recognized certifying bodies.
To work in long-term care facilities, you must pass the CNA competency exam and be listed on the New Jersey Nurse Aide Registry.
Steps to Become a Patient Care Technician in New Jersey
- Choose an approved training program - Make sure it covers CNA, phlebotomy, and EKG.
- Complete your coursework and clinical hours - Keep attendance strong, especially for clinical requirements.
- Pass your CNA exam - This involves a written test and a hands-on skills test.
- Earn additional certifications - While not mandatory for all roles, having phlebotomy and EKG credentials will make you more competitive.
- Apply for jobs - Hospitals, dialysis centers, rehab facilities, and nursing homes are the main employers.
Choosing Between Schools
When picking a program, compare:
- Cost and payment plans
- Day or evening schedules
- Job placement support
- Class sizes and instructor experience
- Pass rates for certification exams
If possible, visit the campus, meet instructors, and sit in on a class before enrolling.
Questions to Ask Before Enrolling
- How many clinical hours are included?
- What is your CNA exam pass rate?
- Are job placement services offered?
- Are certifications included in tuition, or are they extra?
- Is the program eligible for financial aid?
If a school can't answer these clearly, consider it a red flag.
Summary and Next Steps
Becoming a patient care technician in New Jersey can take less than a year if you choose the right school and complete your required certifications. Look for a program that includes CNA, phlebotomy, and EKG training, plus hands-on clinical hours in a real healthcare setting.
Here's what you should do next:
- Make a shortlist of 3-5 schools from the table above.
- Contact each one for tuition costs, schedules, and certification details.
- Schedule campus visits or virtual info sessions.
- Apply to the school that best meets your needs and start your training.
The sooner you start, the sooner you can begin working in a rewarding healthcare role that makes a difference every day.
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