Patient Care Technician

Patient Care Technician

A patient care technician works under a registered nurse and provides direct patient care limited to non-invasive procedures. They actively assist with coordinating and maintaining correct levels of supplies and equipment.

DC Registration Required? Yes

Projected DC Annual Job Openings: 537*

Average DC Yearly Salary: $46,220*

DC Registration Requirements

Patient care technicians are governed by the DC Board of Nursing. To become certified as a Patient Care Technician in DC, applicants must:

Education Prerequisites

Have obtained a high school diploma, its equivalent, or a board-approved examination

Certifications

To register as a Patient Care Technician in the District of Columbia, applicants must pass the National Patient Care Technician (NCPCT) Exam

• •National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) National Certified Patient Care Technician (NCPCT) Exam

- High school diploma or its equivalent

- Submission of a copy of a patient care technician program diploma, certificate of completion, or official (signed) transcript with graduation date within 2 years of program completion

- Pay $119 Exam Fee

- Maintain credential with 12 hours of continuing education every 2 years

Background Check

Undergo a criminal background check

Training Requirement

To register as a patient care technician in the District of Columbia, applicants must complete one of the following:

- A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) course

- A certification as a Medical Assistant

- Two years of nursing school

License

Following the completion of training and certification, submit an application to the DC Board of Nursing and pay a $50 licensing fee

Current DC Healthcare Academy Training Programs

Learn more​:

• Fall 2024: George Washington Health Network
• Spring 2025: Trinity Washington University