DIALYSIS

TECHNICIANEducation and Training Options

TECHNICIAN CAREER PATH

Experiencing strong growth

Demand for care has increased dramatically

Healthcare companies have built hundreds of new

facilities

Administrators are hiring thousands of new technicians

Entry-level position

Very few education and training requirements

Ideal for those who do not want to spend several years

in college or completing specialty training

ROLE OF THE TECHNICIAN

Unlicensed provider

Works under supervision of nurse or physician

Performs routine patient care activities Medical history documentation

Record changes in health status

Measure vital signs and fluid fluctuations

Prepare patients for treatment

Monitor treatment period

Provide emotional support

Offer patient education

STATE AND FEDERAL REGULATIONS

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

States usually adopt federal guidelines

Technicians must have high school diploma or GED

Must complete a formal training program

Must pass a certification exam within 18 months of hire

May complete education and training through in-house

instruction

May complete education and training through a local

community college or vocational school

ENTERING THE PROFESSION

Contact local employers to find out about opportunities

Speak with local colleges about certificate programs

Read about the profession online

Become familiar with legislation with one’s own state

Review federal guidelines and requirements

Actively participate in local and national organizations

Check into certification eligibility requirements

CERTIFICATION OPTIONS

Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and

Technology (BONENT)

Has list of approved training programs

May need to contact them if enrolling in a program not listed

Will usually approve applicant with proper documentation

National Nephrology Certification Organizations

(NNCO)

Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC)

Generally need documentation of program completion

Proof of high school level education

HOME STUDY COURSES

Medical Education Institute (MEI)

Kidney School

Core Curriculum for the Dialysis Technician

National Association of Nephrology Technicians

National Kidney Foundation

American Kidney Fund

Complementary to formal education and training

Often used to prepare for certifications examinations

May be used to meet continuing education requirements

RESOURCES

Dialysis Technician School

www.dialysistechniciansalary.org