Patient Care Assistant Courses
A Patient Care Assistant aids patients in hospitals by assisting with daily tasks, monitoring vital signs, and supporting medical staff.
AI Exposure
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AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Patient Care Assistant
Get qualified to work as a Patient Care Assistant with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
HLT33115
Duration
3 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
A Certificate III in Health Services Assistance HLT33115 is a tailored for students needing the practical skills to assist with nursing work in an acute care environment. Students learn the fundamentals of working within the Australian Health System, transporting and assisting patients in acute care, as well as first aid.
The Certificate III in Health Services Assistance HLT33115 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Health Training Package.
Career opportunities
Duration
3 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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52895WA
Duration
6 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
If you want to study nursing at university or TAFE but lack confidence in your academic abilities, try the 52895WA Certificate IV in Preparation for Health and Nursing Studies. This nationally recognised certificate is a direct pathway to higher education nursing qualifications and will develop your academic writing and study skills. You will also gain a solid understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology, plus applied maths and chemistry. Enquire now for the full list of entry requi...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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11030NAT
The 11030NAT Course in Ear Wax Removal (Irrigation) equips learners with the essential knowledge and skills to manage ear wax (cerumen) through the process of irrigation, commonly known as ear syringing. This course covers the risks, safety practices, potential complications, and guidelines for follow-up and referrals. Participants will undergo practical training and assessment under the supervision of clinical trainers to ensure competency in conducting ear assessments and performing irrigation procedure...
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HLT47715
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
The HLT47715 Certificate IV in Medical Practice Assisting is perfect for anyone needing the administration skills to support a team of medical practitioners and health care professionals. A hands-on qualification, students graduate with the skills to take clinical measurements; perform electrocardiography (ECG); handle medical specimens; and maintain medication stocks. To fully complete the qualification you do need access to an appropriate workplace environment within the health care sector, click to lea...
Career opportunities
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Patient Care Assistant.
Common questions

How much does a Patient Care Assistant earn?
In Australia, a full time Patient Care Assistant generally earns $1,100 per week ($57,200 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

What are the job opportunities for a Patient Care Assistant?
This industry has seen an increase in worker numbers in recent years. There are currently 36,200 people working as a Patient Care Assistant in Australia compared to 26,600 five years ago. Patient Care Assistants may find work across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become a Patient Care Assistant?
A Certificate III in Health Services Assistance is an ideal qualification if you’d like to work as a Patient Care Assistant. This course will give you the skills to provide assistance in an acute care environment. You’ll learn to help patients, transport them and provide first aid.
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Healthcare and medicine are growing sectors, and demand is high for working professionals in these areas. Browse accredited health courses and health qualifications.
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Begin a rewarding career in Aboriginal health care, improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
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Allied health training is designed for students looking for careers supporting physiotherapists, occupational therapists, radiographers and other health professionals.
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Learn more about human physiology while empowering your patients to contribute to their own wellbeing through better nutrition, spiritual practices, and lifestyle choices.
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More information
A Patient Care Assistant provides help to patients during their stay in hospital or other healthcare setting. You might assist with feeding, bathing or dressing or help with other duties such as lifting, moving or transporting patients. Patient Care Assistants may check vital signs like temperature and blood pressure and report any changes to medical staff. You might also attend to general tasks like making beds or tidying rooms.
Patient Care Assistants should have excellent communication skills and be able to liaise with patients, carers and medical staff. Good personal skills are important and you must be able to listen to patient concerns. You’ll need to be flexible and may need to be capable of some physical work.
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