What lessons do I need to take become a dialysis technician?
Dialysis technicians are responsible for providing life-sustaining treatment to patients with kidney failure. They work under the supervision of a nephrologist (a doctor who specializes in kidney disease) and are responsible for operating dialysis machines, monitoring patient vital signs, and administering medications.
To become a dialysis technician, you will need to complete a training program that is accredited by the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP). These programs typically take about two years to complete and include classroom instruction and clinical experience.
Classroom Instruction
The classroom portion of your training will cover the following topics:
* Anatomy and physiology of the kidneys
* Dialysis principles and procedures
* Patient care
* Medical ethics
* Communication skills
* Problem-solving skills
Clinical Experience
The clinical portion of your training will take place in a hospital or dialysis center. You will work under the supervision of experienced dialysis technicians and will gain hands-on experience with dialysis machines and patient care procedures.
Certification
After you have completed your training program, you will be eligible to sit for the national certification exam for dialysis technicians. This exam is administered by the AAKP and is required for all dialysis technicians who want to work in the United States.
Continuing Education
Dialysis technicians are required to complete continuing education courses every year to stay up-to-date on the latest dialysis techniques and procedures. These courses are offered by AAKP and other professional organizations.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for dialysis technicians is excellent. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of dialysis technicians will grow by 22% from 2016 to 2026. This growth is expected to be driven by the increasing number of people with kidney disease.
Salary
Dialysis technicians earn a median annual salary of $53,340. The top 10% of earners make more than $81,000 per year.
If you are interested in becoming a dialysis technician, there are a number of resources available to help you get started. The AAKP website has a wealth of information about dialysis technician training programs, certification, and job opportunities. You can also contact your local hospital or dialysis center to learn more about their training programs.