Demand for dialysis treatment in the United States has exploded over the past few decades due to the rising prevalence of poor dietary and exercise behaviors. Diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure have had devastating effects on the health and well-being of the public and have led to the creation of hundreds of new dialysis treatment facilities. In order to provide comprehensive and accessible care, administrators have started recruiting thousands of new technicians to perform routine patient care activities. This has resulted in many new employment opportunities for unlicensed allied health personnel who are looking for a career path that has relatively few barriers to entry. Those who choose to pursue this profession can complete their education and training through either an in-house program offered by the employer or through an independent educational institution such as a community college or vocational school that administers a certificate option specific to the specialty. After training has been completed, the technician will typically be required to pass a national certification examination.
2. 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
3. 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
4. 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
5. 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
6. 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
7. 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