Meet Latoya

Latoya has been a patient care technician (PCT) with Ascension for four years. She currently serves on a med-surg unit, caring for patients with acute illnesses or recent surgical procedures. With over ten years of experience in healthcare, Latoya brings her passion for people and dedication to her faith to her role as a PCT.

Born and raised in Michigan, Latoya was a Tennessee transplant when she found her role at Ascension. When she’s not at work, she enjoys roller skating, bowling with her husband and operating her family-owned event rental business.

Before Shift

Latoya begins her morning at 5:30 a.m. She starts her day with a prayer, brews a cup of coffee and completes a quick yoga workout. On her way to the hospital, she drops her daughter off for school.

Shift Starts

Latoya’s shift starts at 6:45 a.m. with a team huddle. Next, she meets with the night shift PCT to get their report on current patients. Then, she goes to each patient's room to introduce herself and take their vitals.

Patient care technicians perform basic clinical and non-clinical patient care activities under supervision, including:

Aiding in the entry and exit of patients
Assisting with personal care and daily activities
Documenting records
Reporting findings on the patient’s condition
Maintaining medical equipment.

Break Time

Latoya takes her lunch break at 1:00 p.m. She gets two breaks during her 12-hour shift. When it’s warmer, she likes to step outside and eat in the courtyard for some fresh air.

Shift Ends

Latoya typically takes care of around 12 patients in a day. Toward the end of her shift, she meets with the night shift PCT to give her reports. They go over each of the patients and their needs, as well as any updates or concerns the PCT may need to be aware of.

Latoya clocks out at 7:15 p.m. and heads home to be with her family.

Why Latoya chooses Ascension

Q: Why do you choose to work at Ascension?

A: The people. The environment. Our common passion [for caring for people] helps you work better as a team.

Q: What encouraged you to go into healthcare?

A: I like taking care of people. I took care of the elders in my family. I feel like it is my divine calling. I just want to do what my passion is.

Q: Do you have any advice for someone wanting to be a PCT?

A: Go in with level 10 energy. A smile is always contagious. I once had a patient that was really sad and grumpy, I understood that. Something in me told me to go in there and be myself. Next thing you know she was opening up and saying how she needed my energy and spirit. Just being yourself and doing what you love, that’s all you need.

How to become a PCT

Becoming a PCT may be easier than you think. It is one of many healthcare jobs that don’t require a 4-year degree.

To be considered for a PCT position, you’ll need to earn your Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from a reputable organization, like the American Heart Association or American Red Cross. Be mindful that some employers may have a preference regarding what organization you receive your certification from or whether the course was completed online or in person.

The BLS certification course will teach you basic life support skills and techniques, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) administration. BLS certifications expire every few years. You will need to keep your certification up to date by applying for a renewal.

People who make great PCTs are typically service-oriented, active listeners and effective problem solvers. If you have previous experience with customer service, personal service or patient care, this provides a solid foundation for this role.

A job as a PCT can be an excellent choice for someone looking for a career in healthcare. You’ll join an industry of compassionate caregivers committed to caring for the community and each other.

Start your career in healthcare with confidence. Explore opportunities with Ascension

View our current job openings to apply or join our talent community to learn more about Ascension.