According to the American Association of Kidney Patients, more than 40 million people in the United States have kidney disease, and 700,000 individuals need dialysis or kidney transplants. Dialysis technicians, also called hemodialysis technicians treat people who suffer from end-stage renal disease.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), careers for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians will remain in demand for the next decade as the aging population continues to increase. The BLS projects that 25,900 clinical laboratory technologist jobs will open every year from 2020-2030.
Becoming a dialysis technician only requires a high school diploma or GED certificate. Vocational schools often train future dialysis technicians in as little as one year. Find out more about the requirements to be a dialysis technician and how much they can earn on the job.
Interested in a career as a dialysis technician? This rewarding healthcare role allows you to directly help people with kidney disease receive life-sustaining dialysis treatments.
As a dialysis technician, you get to interact regularly with patients while operating complex medical equipment. It’s a great way to launch a career in healthcare without spending years in school.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through every step of how to become a dialysis technician. Here’s what I’ll cover:
- What exactly does a dialysis technician do?
- Why become a dialysis tech?
- Dialysis technician education and training requirements
- Getting certified as a dialysis technician
- Finding a job as a new dialysis tech
- Understanding the career outlook and salary potential
Let’s get started!
What Does a Dialysis Technician Do?
Dialysis technicians play a vital role on the healthcare team by administering dialysis treatments to patients with kidney failure,
During treatments they monitor patients and the dialysis equipment to ensure everything is working properly. They also take patient vital signs administer medication, and document the details of each treatment.
Some of the main responsibilities of a dialysis technician include:
- Preparing dialysis machines before treatments
- Explaining the dialysis process to patients and answering any questions
- Taking patients’ weight, blood pressure, temperature and other vital signs
- Inserting needles into patients’ arteriovenous fistulas to access their bloodstream
- Operating and monitoring dialysis machines during 4-hour treatments
- Administering drugs and fluids intravenously as needed
- Disposing of used dialysis supplies and disinfecting equipment after treatments
- Tracking details about dialysis treatments in electronic records
It can be a fast-paced job with a lot of patient interaction. Excellent communication skills are a must, as dialysis techs need to educate and reassure nervous patients during treatments.
Why Become a Dialysis Technician?
There are many great reasons to pursue this rewarding allied healthcare career:
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Make a difference: As a dialysis tech, you get to directly improve quality of life for people with chronic kidney disease. Your care allows them to live fuller, longer lives.
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Plentiful job opportunities: The aging population and rising rates of chronic diseases like diabetes are driving growth for dialysis technicians. Job openings are abundant nationwide.
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Quick entry: You can launch your healthcare career in as little as 6 months through a training program and certification exam. No four-year degree required!
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Room to advance: With experience, dialysis techs can become lead techs, facility administrators, patient care technicians, nurses and more.
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Competitive pay: Dialysis technicians earn above-average pay for a non-degree healthcare role. Experience raises the salary potential.
If you’re motivated to help people and love working with modern medical technology, becoming a dialysis technician may be the perfect fit.
Dialysis Technician Education and Training Requirements
Let’s look at the typical steps to becoming a dialysis technician:
1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED
A high school education provides the minimum foundation required for dialysis technician training programs. Courses in biology, anatomy, chemistry and math are helpful.
Some employers may prefer candidates with an associate’s degree. However, a degree is not usually required at the entry level.
2. Enroll in a Dialysis Technician Training Program
Formal training is essential and takes 6-12 months through vocational schools, community colleges and medical facilities. Look for a program approved by the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT).
Coursework covers topics like:
- Basic anatomy and physiology
- Renal disease processes
- Principles of dialysis therapy
- Dialysis equipment operation
- Patient care and communication
- Safety protocols
These classes prepare you for national certification exams. Programs also include hands-on clinical externships for real-world experience.
3. Earn Dialysis Technician Certification
National certification shows you have the skills and knowledge needed for safe, effective practice. Two major certifications are available:
- Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT)
- Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician (CHT)
Both require passing a comprehensive exam after completing training. Some states also require a state license or certificate to work as a dialysis technician.
4. Gain Clinical Experience
Look for clinical experience during your training program and through part-time work as a dialysis tech assistant. These direct patient care opportunities are invaluable for honing your skills.
Some states mandate a minimum number of clinical hours before taking the certification exam. Experience can also make you more hireable after graduation.
With education, certification and clinical experience, you’ll be fully prepared to begin applying for dialysis technician jobs!
How to Get Certified as a Dialysis Technician
As discussed above, national certification is usually mandatory for dialysis techs but the main exam options are:
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT)
Offered by the Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission, the CCHT covers four knowledge areas:
- Clinical activities
- Technical activities
- Environment activities
- Role responsibilities
Steps to earn CCHT certification include:
- Complete qualifying dialysis technician education program
- Submit CCHT exam application and $225 exam fee
- Pass 150-question, 3-hour exam with minimum 74% score
- Renew certification every 2 years through continuing education
Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician (CHT)
Administered by the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology, the CHT exam has two main focuses:
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CHT: Evaluates competency in technical dialysis skills like machine operation and water treatment.
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CHBT: Covers biomedical equipment maintenance and repair knowledge.
To earn CHT certification:
- Finish accredited dialysis technician training
- Apply and pay $225 exam fee
- Pass 150-question, 3-hour exam
- Renew certification every 4 years
Check with your state to see if they require or recommend a certain national dialysis technician certification. Then choose the exam that best fits your career aspirations.
Finding a Job as a New Dialysis Technician
Once you’ve earned your credentials, it’s time to start applying for jobs! Here are some tips:
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Broaden your job search: Hospitals, outpatient clinics, and private dialysis centers all employ entry-level technicians.
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Get connected: Contact instructors and externship sites to inquire about openings. They often hire new grads they’ve worked with.
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Highlight certifications: List any dialysis-specific certifications prominently on your resume and job applications.
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Attend career fairs: Hospitals and healthcare employers often host events to recruit for vacant positions.
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Consider relocation: If no openings exist locally, broaden your search to dialysis technician jobs nationwide. Relocation assistance may be offered.
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Volunteer first: Volunteer shifts as a dialysis tech trainee are a great way to get your foot in the door with potential employers.
Be persistent and keep applying. The job search may take some time, but there are abundant opportunities in this fast-growing field.
Dialysis Technician Career Outlook and Salary
What can you expect from a career as a dialysis technician? Here’s a look at the key job outlook projections and salary information:
Job Outlook
Excellent job growth is projected for dialysis technicians due to our aging population and increasing rates of chronic kidney disease and diabetes.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of clinical laboratory technicians including dialysis techs is forecast to grow by 5% from 2022-2032, exceeding the average for all occupations. Approximately 24,000 job openings are expected over the decade.
Demand is strongest in hospitals, outpatient care centers and dialysis clinics for entry-level technicians. With additional training and experience, dialysis techs can advance into lead technician, training or administrative roles.
Salary
How much do dialysis technicians earn?
According to 2022 BLS data, dialysis technicians had median annual wages of $57,380 nationwide. The top 10% highest earners made over $84,670.
Pay varies based on your employer, location and experience level:
- Entry-level dialysis technicians may start around $30,000 per year.
- With 3-5 years of experience, pay often ranges from $40,000 to $50,000.
- Lead technicians and those with specialty certifications can make upward of $60,000 annually.
Overall, the salary outlook for dialysis technicians is strong, especially in high demand regions.
Is Becoming a Dialysis Technician Right for You?
Top 5 Paid States
According to the BLS, dialysis technicians made a median annual wage of $54,180 in May 2020. Wages for dialysis technicians vary by experience, with the bottom 10% earning less than $31,450 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $83,700 in May 2020.
A dialysis technicians location also impacts their pay. According to the BLS, dialysis technicians in Alaska earned the most in May 2020. They made an annual average wage of $69,390. Other top-paying states for dialysis technicians include Connecticut, New York, Rhode Island, and Oregon.
Steps to Become a Dialysis Technician
- Earn a high school diploma or GED certificate.
- Complete dialysis technician training at a state-approved school.
- Earn a license or national certification.
- Gain dialysis technician training through internships or practicums.
- Secure a job as a dialysis technician.
How To Become A Dialysis Nurse
How long does it take to become a Dialysis Technician?
You will need to enroll in an educational program for at least a certificate of completion in nephrology and hemodialysis studies. Typically, a certificate program for dialysis technicians can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months to complete, depending on the program.
When is dialysis initiated?
The decision of when to initiate dialysis is a complex one that is made by you and your doctor. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as the best time to start dialysis will vary depending on your individual circumstances. Some factors that may be considered when making the decision to start dialysis include: Your estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR): This is a measure of how well your kidneys are functioning. A normal eGFR is 90 or above. An eGFR of less than 15 is considered to be kidney failure. Your symptoms: If you are experiencing symptoms of kidney failure, such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, or shortness of breath, you may need to start dialysis sooner. Your other medical conditions: If you have other medical conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, starting dialysis sooner may be necessary to help manage these conditions. Your lifestyle: If you are active and have a busy lifestyle, you may want to start dialysis sooner so that you can maintain your independence.
How to choose a Dialysis Technician program?
One should also consider the length of the dialysis technician program, as complete dialysis technician training is essential. Longer programs tend to provide a more comprehensive education, enabling trainees to develop improved communication and teaching strategies. This leads to increased knowledge and skills, which are crucial in this field.
What courses do I need to become a Dialysis Technician?
The courses in a Dialysis Technician program will be aimed toward science and math, and you can expect courses like: With an Associate’s degree, a Dialysis Technician can expect entry-level jobs in the field. In order to qualify for an Associate’s degree program, you must have a high school diploma or GED.
