PCT Programs in Metairie, Louisiana

Becoming a Patient Care Technician in Metairie, Louisiana

If you’re considering a career as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) in Metairie, Louisiana, you’re on the path to joining a rewarding and essential field in healthcare. PCTs play a crucial role in patient care, working alongside nurses and doctors to ensure patients receive the best possible care. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a PCT, including educational paths, training programs, and certification requirements.

About Metairie

Metairie, Louisiana, is a bustling suburb of New Orleans, known for its rich culture and history. Located in Jefferson Parish, Metairie offers a blend of residential neighborhoods and commercial areas, making it a convenient location for aspiring healthcare professionals. For more information about Metairie, visit the official Jefferson Parish website.

PCT Training Programs in Metairie, Louisiana

Finding the right PCT program is crucial to your success. Here are some local options:

1. Delgado Community College
   Located in New Orleans, Delgado Community College offers a comprehensive 12-week PCT program. The curriculum includes medical terminology, phlebotomy, EKG, and CPR, alongside clinical experience to ensure hands-on learning.
   Visit Delgado Community College’s PCT Program

2. Blue Cliff College
   Situated in Metairie, Blue Cliff College provides a 9-month program that covers anatomy, physiology, patient care skills, and infection control. The program includes clinical experience to prepare students for real-world scenarios.
   Visit Blue Cliff College’s PCT Program

3. Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center
   Located in New Orleans, LSU Health Sciences Center offers a 16-week program focusing on vital signs, phlebotomy, EKG, and emergency care, with clinical experience included.
   Visit LSU Health Sciences Center’s PCT Program

PCT Employment Opportunities in Metairie

Metairie hosts several healthcare facilities where PCTs can find employment:

• East Jefferson General Hospital
  Located in the heart of Metairie, East Jefferson General Hospital is a leading healthcare provider offering numerous job opportunities for PCTs.
  Explore Careers at East Jefferson General Hospital

• Ochsner Medical Center
  Situated in nearby New Orleans, Ochsner Medical Center is one of the largest healthcare systems in the region, providing a wide range of employment opportunities for PCTs.
  Explore Careers at Ochsner Medical Center

Prerequisites for PCT Programs

To enroll in a PCT program in Metairie, you typically need:

• A high school diploma or GED/high school equivalency.
• Completion of a state-approved PCT training program.
• Background check and possible drug test.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification, including CPR training.

PCT Certification Requirements

After completing your training, certification is the next step. You can choose from two nationally recognized exams:

• National Healthcareer Association (NHA): Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (CPCT/A) exam.
  Visit NHA

• American Medical Certification Association (AMCA): Patient Care Technician Certification (PCTC) exam.
  Visit AMCA

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Patient Care Technician in Metairie, Louisiana, is a fulfilling journey. With the right education and certification, you’ll be well-equipped to make a difference in the lives of patients. Contact a local school today to learn more about their PCT programs and take the first step towards your new career.

For more information on the job outlook for Patient Care Technicians, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.