Patient Care Technician Interview Questions and Answers

Planning your outfit the night before can ease some of those interview-day nerves. Business attire is a safe bet, but formal attire is even better. Go for a tailored suit, business-appropriate skirt or dress that isn't too short or form-fitting. If you wear jewelry, opt for classic, understated pieces.

Pack a Bag

Like planning your outfit, packing a bag ahead of time can relieve day-of stress. A few things to consider taking along include:

• Extra resume copies
• A list of references
• A pen and notepad
• Water
• Breath mints

Get Some Sleep

Being alert and energized can help you nail your interview, so get a good night's sleep beforehand. Strive for a solid eight hours, and eat a nutritious breakfast when you wake up.

Plan Your Commute

If possible, plan to arrive at your interview 20-30 minutes early. This extra time allows for any travel hiccups like accidents, traffic jams or parking delays. You can head into the interview 10 minutes early to show the potential employer that you're conscientious. 

Common Interview Questions for Patient Care Technicians With Example Answers

Review the following patient care technician interview questions and sample answers to get an idea of what employers are looking for and how to show them you have it. 

• What motivates you to work as a PCT? Show the interviewer that you're passionate about your work. Answer this question with a specific, personal anecdote if you can. For example, "I knew I wanted to work with patients when I was growing up with my brother. He was in and out of the hospital often, and I helped my parents care for him when treatments left him feeling sick and exhausted."
• What do you think is the biggest challenge of working in patient care? With this question, the interviewer wants to know what parts of the job you find the hardest and how you would overcome them. Answer with a specific skill you could use to meet those challenges, such as "I find it challenging to work with older adults who are used to being independent and prefer to do things for themselves. I rely on persuasion and kindness to encourage them to accept the care I am giving."
• Can you describe a scenario that tested you in your role as a PCT? If you've worked as a PCT before and are looking to get hired at a new practice, your interviewer may ask about your previous experiences. They'll want to hear about your problem-solving skills and whether you can handle the demands of the job. You might answer, "I was working with a patient who became combative when he was taken off the ventilator. He was waking up from the sedatives and struggling to breathe, and he began hitting and scratching the nurse. I gently but firmly pulled his hands away from her and explained what was going on while we waited for help to arrive." 
• What are the limitations of someone who works as a PCT? Your interviewer wants to ensure you know the scope of your qualifications so that you don't perform a skill you're not qualified for. PCT scope of practice can vary from state to state, so discuss the skills you can perform and those that are out of scope in your state. 
• What are your thoughts on patient education? Educating patients on their conditions is just as important as providing care, and the employer wants to know that you understand. You can respond, "I believe that patient education is crucial. Patients can better take care of themselves and cope with their medical conditions when they're informed, so I encourage them to ask questions if they're unsure of something."
• How do you deal with the less pleasant aspects of being a PCT? Your interviewer wants to assess your passion and commitment to the job, even when completing unpleasant tasks. You can respond, "We are all human, and it's my job to care for patients in vulnerable moments. I'm honored that they trust me during their most humbling times, and thinking about this helps me push through."
• How do you ensure that you notice changes in a patient's condition? The interviewer wants to assess your dedication and attention to detail. You might answer, "I always review my patients' histories when I assume care, so I have an idea of what they've been through and what to expect. One lady had a history of uncontrolled diabetes, so when she became lightheaded and started sweating, I knew to check her blood sugar and alert the nurse." 
• What skills do you believe are most important for a PCT? Now is the time to list the skills that are vital for success as a PCT. You might answer, "Patience, compassion and attention to detail are the most essential skills a PCT can have. Working face-to-face with diverse patients can be challenging, but patience and compassion show them that you care. Of course, medical conditions can cause abrupt changes in patients, so being alert and attentive will ensure that nothing gets missed."

AIMS Education Can Help You Get the Job