Care of Dialysis Patients

The dialysis technician or dialysis nurse cares for individuals who are being treated with hemodialysis either in a dialysis clinic, a hospital environment, or a home health situation. Dialysis technicians are directly supervised by physicians and registered nurses. Their main duties include operating kidney dialysis machines, preparing dialyzer reprocessing and delivery systems, and maintaining dialysis equipment maintenance. They also monitor and operate various machines related to peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis, plasmaphoresis, and drug overdose. Additionally, they may be asked to develop and implement protocols for equipment evaluation and training materials to instruct patients and staff in practices and principles of dialysis. They are also asked to help in monitoring patients during dialysis sessions under direct and close supervision by physicians and nurses. These jobs require a high school diploma or its equivalent, state certification that varies by state, and 2-4 years. This credential is designed to document the acquisition of basic knowledge and skills required for the dialysis technician or allied health professional working in a dialysis clinic, hospital, or home environment caring for dialysis patients. The Dialysis technician is an important part of the interdisciplinary team who work to meet the medical, psychological, and sociological needs of individuals who must undergo hemodialysis treatment of kidney failure or related health problems.