The requirements for working as a dialysis technician vary from one state to another. In New York, for instance, there is no exam, qualification or dialysis technician certification required to work as a dialysis technician. Still, for most institutions that offer a technician training program, there are certifications and diplomas awarded. Training is important as it speaks to your credentials and ability to handle the job. You can also work across the country wherever you choose to live.
The Job
Even though they are not formally listed with the US national labor bureau of labor statistics, this is one of the most in demand jobs in the country at the moment. Do not let the fact that some states do not require certification fool you, though. It requires the combination of a meticulous nature and caring attitude. It is especially suitable for those who have some sort of healthcare training and would like to add to their skillset.
What exactly does the dialysis technician do, though? They typically work under the direction of nurses or physicians, and their job is to operate machines and conduct dialysis on patients that suffer from acute or chronic organ failure. The process of dialysis removes waste products and unwanted fluids from the blood and vascular systems in patients whose kidneys are not up to task in removing these toxins. For the process to be successful, they must follow strict protocol to guarantee safety and effective outcomes.
Training
The hemodialysis technician training program involves the following;
* Introduction and the basics of dialysis
* Chemistry, blood and body fluids
* Renal anatomy and physiology, and what happens in case of failure
* Hemodialysis devices
* Patient assessment and treatment procedures
* Dialysis and concerns in acute cases of renal failure
* Health, medication and nutrition factors in dialysis
* Standard precautions and infection control
Requirements
The most basic requirement for most training institutions and jurisdictions is a minimum of high school diploma or its GED equivalent. Most hospitals might require previous hands on experience during training, or some sort of past training in the healthcare profession. It is unfortunate that the number of people suffering from kidney disease and failure is very high, but this means many more dialysis technicians are required.
Interested in a Career as a Dialysis technician? Dialysis 4 Career is an established school offering various types of training programs in the field of dialysis.