What does a Hemodialysis Technician do?
Published 3 min read
A hemodialysis technician is responsible for operating and maintaining dialysis equipment, as well as providing patient care before, during, and after treatments. They may also be responsible for educating patients and their families about the dialysis process and how to manage their condition.
Hemodialysis Technician job duties include:
- Clean and maintain dialysis machines and equipment
- Perform pre- and post-treatment patient assessments
- Monitor patients during dialysis treatment
- Record patient vital signs and treatment information
- Administer medications as prescribed by the physician
- Educate patients and families about dialysis treatment and self-care
- Maintain a clean and safe environment
- Perform quality control procedures on dialysis machines and solutions
- Collaborate with other members of the healthcare team
Hemodialysis Technician Job Requirements
A hemodialysis technician typically has a high school diploma or equivalent, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and must complete a brief period of on-the-job training. Some states have certification programs for hemodialysis technicians, which may be required for employment. Experience working in the healthcare field is often preferred.
Hemodialysis Technician Skills
- Hemodialysis
- Blood pressure
- Cannulation
- Vascular access
- Hemodialysis machines
- Renal diet
- Infection control
- Dialysate
- Blood chemistry
- Patient assessment
- Emergency procedures
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How to become a Hemodialysis Technician
A hemodialysis technician is a medical professional who helps patients with kidney failure receive life-sustaining treatments known as dialysis. As a hemodialysis technician, you will be responsible for operating and maintaining dialysis machines, as well as monitoring patients during their treatments. If you are interested in becoming a hemodialysis technician, here are a few steps you can take to get started on your career:
1. Complete high school or earn your GED. You will need at least a high school diploma or GED to pursue training as a hemodialysis technician.
2. Enroll in an accredited hemodialysis technician program. There are several accredited hemodialysis technician programs available at community colleges and technical schools across the country. During your training, you will learn how to operate dialysis machines and provide patient care.
3. Pass the Certified Hemodialysis Technician (CHT) exam. After completing an accredited hemodialysis technician program, you will need to pass the CHT exam to become certified. The CHT exam is offered by the National Board of Certification for Medical Laboratory Personnel (NBCMLP).
4. Find employment at a dialysis center or hospital. Once you are certified, you can begin working as a hemodialysis technician at a dialysis center or hospital. Many employers require that you have at least one year of experience before they will hire you, so it is important to get started in your career as soon as possible.
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