At Jobcallup.com, we connect job seekers with verified recruitment updates and application tips. Whether you’re in Lagos applying to a teaching hospital, or in the U.S. looking for your first healthcare role, this article will break down everything you need to know about patient care technician jobs, including responsibilities, pay, growth opportunities, and the FAQs everyone asks during the recruitment process.
What Does A Patient Care Technician Do?
A patient care technician is responsible for helping patients with daily living needs while also performing clinical support duties. Tasks include:
- Assisting patients with bathing, dressing, feeding, and mobility
- Recording and monitoring vital signs (temperature, pulse, blood pressure)
- Collecting samples such as blood or urine for laboratory testing
- Providing emotional support and communicating patient concerns to nurses
- Assisting during medical procedures and ensuring patient safety
In Nigerian healthcare settings, PCTs often serve in large wards with high patient-to-staff ratios, making their role vital in improving patient outcomes.
Salary Expectations For Patient Care Technicians
Salaries vary by country, institution, and experience. For example:
- United States: $15–$22 per hour (about $30,000–$45,000 annually)
- Nigeria: ₦80,000–₦150,000 per month in teaching hospitals
- UK: £18,000–£23,000 annually for entry-level healthcare support workers
With overtime and specialized unit assignments (e.g., dialysis or ICU), salaries may increase. Recruitment portals like government job boards and healthcare platforms often advertise openings with detailed pay scales.
Requirements To Apply for Patient Care Technician Job
To apply for most patient care technician jobs, you will need:
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a patient care technician or certified nursing assistant (CNA) program
- CPR and basic life support certification
- Clinical training or internship experience
Applicants in Nigeria should check recruitment postings from federal hospitals or verified platforms like Jobcallup.com.
Career Growth Opportunities of Patient Care Technician Job
Working as a patient care technician provides an entry point into healthcare. With further education, many PCTs transition into becoming licensed practical nurses (LPNs), registered nurses (RNs), or even specialized technicians in dialysis, EKG, or surgical support. This makes it a career with both stability and upward mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions About Patient Care Technician Jobs
What qualifications do I need to become a patient care technician?
You need at least a high school diploma and a certification in patient care or nursing assistance. Some employers also require CPR and first aid certification.
How much does a patient care technician earn?
In the U.S., average salaries range from $30,000 to $45,000 annually. In Nigeria, salaries average ₦80,000 to ₦150,000 monthly depending on the hospital.
Where can I find patient care technician jobs?
Hospital websites, healthcare recruitment agencies, and portals like Jobcallup.com regularly post openings.
Do patient care technicians need a license?
No license is required, but certification from an accredited program is usually mandatory for employment.
Can patient care technicians administer medication?
Generally, no. Administering medication is reserved for licensed nurses. PCTs assist with basic care duties.