The Patient Care Technician (PCT) program is a comprehensive training pathway designed to prepare students for entry-level careers in healthcare. This enhanced program combines classroom learning with essential clinical instruction and industry-recognized certifications that expand student skillsets and employability. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge, hands-on experience, and practical competencies needed to provide high-quality patient care and confidently enter the healthcare workforce.

At the core of the program is the Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) course, which provides foundational knowledge and skills necessary to deliver safe, effective resident care. Learning takes place both in the classroom and through hands-on experience in a clinical setting within a long-term care facility. This course meets the requirements of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1987 (OBRA) for aides working in nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities. In addition to core nursing assistant skills, the course includes Mandatory Reporter requirements, Bloodborne Pathogens, and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). These components ensure students understand their legal responsibilities, infection control practices, and patient privacy regulations.

Students will also complete Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers, gaining critical lifesaving skills such as high-quality CPR for adults, children, and infants; proper use of an automated external defibrillator (AED); and team-based emergency response techniques. This training follows current American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines and prepares students to respond confidently in emergency situations.

In addition, the program includes Phlebotomy Technician certification, which prepares students with the skills needed to perform blood collection procedures in a variety of healthcare settings. Topics include medical terminology; anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system; blood collection equipment; venous and capillary collection techniques; laboratory procedures; specimen handling; quality assurance; standard precautions; and infection control. The course is delivered in a hybrid format, with students meeting face-to-face while completing additional coursework online. As part of the training, students are required to complete a designated number of successful punctures in a clinical setting. Upon completion of the phlebotomy requirements, students are eligible to take the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) exam. The cost of the exam included in the program tuition.

Class Offerings: Varies

Class Location: Regional sites, varies 

Department: Career Launch

CIP: 51.3902

To Register: Click here

Course Comments: Completed and cleared background check (state law), physical, 2 Step TB test, and submission of vaccination records are required prior to 1st day of class. If not completed/cleared, students will not be allowed to attend class. Scrub outfit (any color/style) and gait belt required for clinical. Textbook, gait belt, and background check fee are included in the tuition cost. This class qualifies for GAP tuition assistance. 

Program of Study | Course Numbers: ZHL-172, ZHT-100, ZHB-100

Internal Credit Course Equivalency: HSC 172 Nurse Aide  (3 credits)

Contact Us:

Community Education Assistant Director

Noncredit@iowacentral.edu

515-574-1293

Related Programs:

Associate Degree Nursing, AAS  

Practical Nursing Diploma  

Medical Laboratory Technician, AAS