Overview
PCT program students complete a six-week paid training with day and evening hours, as well as potential weekends. Students can become a PCT-2 provider after completing the program. A new course begins every eight to 10 weeks.
PCT duties include:
- Answering call lights
- Assisting hospital patients with daily living tasks, such as bathing, toileting, moving and feeding
Training is free. Applicants must provide their own uniform. We also recommend you buy comfortable shoes.
Curriculum
Classes are held at our Franciscan Education Center. Clinical rotations take place on the medical, surgical and step-down units of our Indianapolis and Mooresville hospitals. Clinicals are a combination of eight- and 12-hour days with some weekends.
The program includes a combination of lectures, videos, demonstrations and hands-on practice.
You will need to prepare for classroom lectures and skills during the program. You must pass all quizzes and tests with a minimum score and also pass a final simulation to complete the program.
Requirements
The PCT role is fast-paced and physically demanding. PCTs often experience long periods of walking or standing and must be able to lift, push and pull heavy objects. Applicants should:- Show good interpersonal skills and be outgoing and comfortable in a patient care setting
- Have a high school diploma or GED and basic math and reading skills
- Have basic computer skills to document a patient's medical record
- Want to learn new skills
- Be models of our Franciscan mission and values and committed to working in our tradition of compassionate care
Work Requirement
When accepted into the program, participants are expected to take, at minimum, a regular part-time position on one of the units with openings. Unit needs and availability will determine your shift and weekend and holiday hours once you complete the program. Shifts are traditionally 12 hours from 7 am to 7:30 pm or 7 pm to 7:30 am.
Application Process
Interested candidates should apply for the patient care technician training on the Franciscan Health job portal.
Our Locations
Franciscan Education Center
Franciscan Education Center
Contact Us
For more information about the program, please reach out using the contact info below. For help with your application, call our Human Resources Department at (317) 528-8473.
Patient Care Technician Program
Phone: 317-528-8473
Email: EducationIndy@FranciscanAlliance.org
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Patient Care Technician?
A Patient Care Technician is a healthcare professional who works alongside nurses and therapists to provide basic and direct patient care, helping them to accomplish activities of daily living.
What does a Patient Care Technician do?
Patient Care Technicians perform a variety of duties, depending on where they work and the responsibilities that may be assigned in their area of work. Those responsibilities may include, but are not limited to the following:
- Assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, feeding, and transferring/transporting patients.
- Obtaining vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, etc.).
- Reporting a patient's change in condition to their nurse.
- Following HIPPA guidelines/Keeping patients' privacy.
- Promoting a safe and friendly environment for all patients.
- Collaborating with others in the health care team.
- Blood sugars (POCT) and empty drain and bags.
- Documenting on patient/Reporting off to the next shift.
What is the difference between a PCT and a CNA?
A PCT and CNA are similar in many aspects including keeping a patient safe, assisting with ADLs, and transitioning patients in and out of bed. Additionally, both may work in home health and hospital settings. A PCT, however, can perform tasks that CNAs may not be trained to perform, such as blood sugars.
The Franciscan Health PCT Program focuses on caring for hospital patients and requires participants to successfully complete skills demos, tests and simulations in order to receive a certificate. A CNA program requires a state exam to receive certification and obtain a license.
Will I be offered a job upon completion of the PCT program?
Yes, if you successfully complete the program, you are guaranteed a job; we cannot, however, guarantee that it will be in your choice area or desired shift. If accepted into the program, participants are expected to fulfill a full-time open position for a PCT 1. Three 12-hour shifts is considered full-time.
After completing the program, what hours are considered a single shift?
The following are considered single PCT shifts at Franciscan Health:
Day Shift: 7:00 am to 7:30 pm
Night Shift: 7:00 pm to 7:30 am
Is a Patient Care Technician a job for me?
If you can work a majority of a 12-hour shift on your feet and hope to make a difference in people's lives, then this is for you. Being a PCT is both fast-paced and rewarding!
How long is the program
Our 6-week PCT education and training program prepares students to work alongside nurses and therapists, providing basic patient care within a hospital setting. Participants also have the opportunity to obtain additional training and responsibility to advance to a PCT-2. The program is offered 4 to 5 times a year and attendance is mandatory.
What are the prerequisites?
High School Diploma or equivalent is preferred.
What do I wear for class?
Business casual or scrubs.
What is the program structure?
Participants can expect a lecture in the morning, followed by hands-on practice in the afternoon. After 2.5 weeks, we transition from the classroom into a hospital setting to apply our skills. Homework and daily quizzes will be given over the previous day's material, and a skills checklist will be completed following the didactic and clinical portion of the program.
What are the days and hours for class and clinical?
Class and clinical are held Monday through Friday. Times vary week to week, but may begin as early as 7:00 am and run as last as 5:30 pm. Your clinical schedule may vary depending on the shift.
What am I responsible for?
The program is free, but participants must provide their own scrubs. Scrubs must be purchased through Franciscan Health to satisfy color and logo requirements.
Do I receive a certificate or license after completion?
You will receive a certificate of completion of the PCT Program offered by Franciscan Health. You will not have a license.
After completing the program, can I be a PRN?
NO, you cannot be a PRN. At a minimum, you must take a regular part time position (two 12-hour shifts) or a full-time (three 12-hour shifts) preferred.
Can I switch to a different unit?
Yes, after 6 months.
Can I switch to a different shift?
If approved by your manager, you may switch to a different shift in your same unit.
If your desired shift is in another unit, you must wait 6 months in order to transfer.
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