Patient care technicians (PCTs) play a vital role in the healthcare industry, providing essential support to nurses, doctors, and other medical professionals. If you're looking for a rewarding career in healthcare, exploring patient care tech jobs in Chicago can be a great starting point. In this article, we'll delve into the world of PCTs, discussing the job requirements, skills needed, and five patient care tech jobs in Chicago to consider.
What is a Patient Care Technician?
A patient care technician, also known as a patient care assistant or nursing assistant, is a healthcare professional responsible for providing basic care to patients under the supervision of a licensed nurse or doctor. Their primary duties include taking vital signs, preparing patients for exams, and assisting with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and feeding.
PCTs work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. They often serve as a liaison between patients and medical staff, providing emotional support and ensuring patients receive the care they need.
Key Skills and Qualifications
To become a patient care technician, you typically need:
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a patient care technician training program (usually 4-12 months)
- Certification as a patient care technician (CPT) or certified nursing assistant (CNA)
- Basic life support (BLS) certification
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to lift and move patients (if required)
5 Patient Care Tech Jobs in Chicago to Explore
Here are five patient care tech jobs in Chicago to consider:
1. Patient Care Technician - Orthopedic Unit
[Image source: "https://cdn.thezoneshow.com/01-patient-care-technician-orthopedic-unit.png" onerror="this.src='https://cdn.geupap.com/images/01-patient-care-technician-orthopedic-unit.jpg'" alt="Patient Care Technician - Orthopedic Unit" onclick="openModal(this)"]
- Location: Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL
- Job Description: Assist nurses with patient care, take vital signs, and prepare patients for exams in an orthopedic unit.
- Requirements: CPT or CNA certification, BLS certification, and 1-2 years of experience in a hospital setting.
2. Patient Care Assistant - Medical ICU
[Image source: "https://cdn.thezoneshow.com/23-patient-care-assistant-medical-icu.png" onerror="this.src='https://cdn.geupap.com/images/23-patient-care-assistant-medical-icu.jpg'" alt="Patient Care Assistant - Medical ICU" onclick="openModal(this)"]
- Location: University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL
- Job Description: Provide basic care to critically ill patients, including taking vital signs, assisting with daily living activities, and communicating with nurses and doctors.
- Requirements: CPT or CNA certification, BLS certification, and 1-2 years of experience in a critical care setting.
3. Patient Care Technician - Rehabilitation Unit
[Image source: "https://cdn.thezoneshow.com/46-patient-care-technician-rehabilitation-unit.png" onerror="this.src='https://cdn.geupap.com/images/46-patient-care-technician-rehabilitation-unit.jpg'" alt="Patient Care Technician - Rehabilitation Unit" onclick="openModal(this)"]
- Location: Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL
- Job Description: Assist patients with physical, occupational, and speech therapy, as well as provide basic care and support.
- Requirements: CPT or CNA certification, BLS certification, and 1-2 years of experience in a rehabilitation setting.
4. Patient Care Assistant - Pediatric Unit
[Image source: "https://cdn.thezoneshow.com/17-patient-care-assistant-pediatric-unit.png" onerror="this.src='https://cdn.geupap.com/images/17-patient-care-assistant-pediatric-unit.jpg'" alt="Patient Care Assistant - Pediatric Unit" onclick="openModal(this)"]
- Location: Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, IL
- Job Description: Provide basic care to pediatric patients, including taking vital signs, assisting with daily living activities, and communicating with nurses and doctors.
- Requirements: CPT or CNA certification, BLS certification, and 1-2 years of experience in a pediatric setting.
5. Patient Care Technician - Surgical Unit
[Image source: "https://cdn.thezoneshow.com/82-patient-care-technician-surgical-unit.png" onerror="this.src='https://cdn.geupap.com/images/82-patient-care-technician-surgical-unit.jpg'" alt="Patient Care Technician - Surgical Unit" onclick="openModal(this)"]
- Location: University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System, Chicago, IL
- Job Description: Assist nurses with patient care, take vital signs, and prepare patients for surgery in a surgical unit.
- Requirements: CPT or CNA certification, BLS certification, and 1-2 years of experience in a hospital setting.
If you're interested in pursuing a patient care tech job in Chicago, consider exploring these five opportunities. Remember to tailor your resume and cover letter to each job description, highlighting your relevant skills and experience. Good luck in your job search!
Share Your Thoughts
Have you worked as a patient care technician in Chicago? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below. If you're new to the field, ask us any questions you may have about getting started. We're here to help!
What is the average salary for a patient care technician in Chicago?
+The average salary for a patient care technician in Chicago is around $35,000-$45,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
What are the typical working hours for a patient care technician?
+Typical working hours for a patient care technician can vary depending on the healthcare setting, but often include rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays.
Can I work as a patient care technician without certification?
+While certification is not always required, having a CPT or CNA certification can increase job prospects and career advancement opportunities.