Patient Care Assistant
This is a 21 credit hour certificate program that offers classroom instruction and related clinical practice in the basic nursing care of adults, children, infants and the elderly.
The need for qualified patient care assistants in long-term care is growing at a tremendous rate. The philosophy of care for residents in these facilities has changed from one of custodial care to an implementation of restorative care in which the resident is assisted to reach an optimal potential for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This care can only be provided by knowledgeable and educated staff. The second semester focuses on acute care and specialized patient care. Entry-level skills in phlebotomy, EKG, and monitor technician are included. Students are prepared to work the many fields available to them such as home health, hospitals, nursing homes, hospice agencies, doctors’ offices, and clinics.
Students completing the first semester are qualified to take their State Competency exam Nurse Assistant Competency Evaluation Services (NACES). After completing the two semester program requirements, students are eligible to take the National Center for Competency Testing examination for Patient Care Technician. Students are also prepared to take the National Healthcareer Association certification examinations for Patient Care Technician, Phlebotomist and EKG technician.