Transport patients to areas such as operating rooms or x-ray rooms using wheelchairs, stretchers, or moveable beds. May maintain stocks of supplies or clean and transport equipment. Psychiatric orderlies are included in Psychiatric Aides.
SOC: 31-1132.00
Common Job Titles
Patient Care Assistant (PCA)
Patient Care Technician (PCT)
Patient Transporter
Transporter
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onPerform patient transport using wheelchairs, stretchers, and moveable beds to operating rooms, diagnostic imaging areas, and treatment facilities following safety protocols.
Developing
Hands-onOperate hydraulic patient lifts and transfer equipment when repositioning or moving patients with mobility limitations under nursing supervision.
Developing
MindsetEngage with patients demonstrating empathy and cultural sensitivity during transport and care activities to reduce anxiety and ensure comfort.
Developing
KnowledgeIdentify patient safety risks and mobility needs through observation and communication with nursing staff before transport.
Developing
Hands-onHandle medical equipment and supplies including oxygen therapy equipment, hospital beds, and monitoring devices during patient care.
Developing
KnowledgeApply infection control and safety procedures when cleaning equipment, maintaining supply stocks, and transporting patients in healthcare settings.
Developing
MindsetRespond to patient requests and concerns with patience and professionalism while coordinating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
Developing
KnowledgeDistinguish priority levels for patient transport requests based on medical urgency and procedural schedules under time constraints.
Developing
Hands-onExecute patient positioning and body mechanics techniques to prevent injury to self and patients during transfers and ambulation assistance.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain transport procedures and destination information to patients using clear communication adapted to patient comprehension levels.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Orderlies (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
53,020
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $31,610. 25th percentile: U.S. $34,850. 50th percentile: U.S. $37,700. 75th percentile: U.S. $43,160. 90th percentile: U.S. $49,570. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$31,610
10% of workers earn the following or more
$49,570
Workers on average earn
$40,070
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Customer and Personal Service4.2/5
Public Safety and Security3.1/5
English Language3.0/5
Transportation2.5/5
Education and Training2.4/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
