Program Description:

Length

7 months (600 Clock Hours)

Meeting times to be determined

Basic Skills Requirement

Comprehensive Adult Student Assessment System (CASAS) score of 249 in Reading, and 245 in Math are required prior to graduation (some exemptions apply).  

Exemptions from the Basic Skills test are as follows:

• Graduate of a Florida Public High School from 2007-present with a standard High School Diploma
• Florida based GED 2014-present
• College degree from an accredited institution
• (Official transcripts are needed to verify exemption)

What is a Patient Care Technician?

A Patient Care Technician (PCT) is a vital member of the healthcare team who provides direct, hands-on care to patients under the supervision of a nurse or doctor. While a Nursing Assistant primarily focuses on basic care, a PCT is an advanced, cross-trained professional who performs more complex clinical tasks. They serve as the "heart" of the medical unit, often spending more time with patients than any other staff member, ensuring their physical and emotional needs are met.

What You Will Learn (Technical Skills)

The 600-hour curriculum is designed to move you from foundational healthcare knowledge to advanced clinical procedures. You will master:

• Core Nursing Skills: Bathing, feeding, grooming, and assisting with mobility (transferring patients from beds to wheelchairs). (ADL’s)
• Vital Sign Monitoring: Accurately measuring and recording blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and respiration.
• Advanced Clinical Tasks: Performing EKGs (Electrocardiograms) and Phlebotomy (blood draws/specimen collection).
• Specialized Care: Principles of nutrition, geriatric care for elderly patients, and restorative/rehabilitative activities.
• Safety & Infection Control: Mastering sterile techniques, OSHA standards, and bloodborne pathogen safety (including HIV/AIDS education).

Soft Skills & Physical Requirements

Success in this field requires more than just technical knowledge. Students should be prepared for:

• Soft Skills: High levels of empathy and compassion, strong verbal communication (acting as a bridge between patient and doctor), and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Physical Demands: This is a physically active role. You must be able to stand for long periods, lift and move patients safely using proper body mechanics, and maintain high energy levels throughout a shift.

How can I receive financial aid?

• Complete an application for financial aid, FAFSA, at www.studentaid.gov
• For questions or help regarding Federal Student Aid, please contact the Help Desk at 1-800-433-3243.
• Federally funded Title IV Grants require a student to have a standard high school diploma or GED from a regionally accredited school

2025-2026 Curriculum Frameworks

Certifications You Can Obtain

The 600-hour framework is structured so that you "stack" credentials as you progress. Upon completion, you are eligible to challenge several industry-recognized exams:

1. CNA: Certified Nursing Assistant (via the Florida Board of Nursing/Prometric)
2. CPCT/A: Certified Patient Care Technician/Assistant (via NHA)
3. CPT: Certified Phlebotomy Technician
4. CET: Certified EKG Technician
5. HHA: Home Health Aide Certificate