What Do They Do?
What Do They Do?
Dialysis technicians, also known as renal, hemodialysis, or nephrology technicians, operate machines that remove waste and excess fluids from the blood of patients with kidney damage. They prepare patients for dialysis, monitor them and the machine during the process, and record vital signs and weight before, during, and after treatment. Typically, dialysis sessions last 4 hours, 3 times a week. Technicians may also teach patients about in-home treatments.
For More Information:
American Kidney Fund: https://www.kidneyfund.org/treatments/dialysis/meet-your-treatment-team-dialysis-technician
Where Do They Work?
Where Do They Work?
Dialysis technicians work under the supervision of registered nurses and physicians in hospitals, outpatient facilities, nursing homes, and in patient homes. They typically work around 40 hours per week.
How Much Do They Earn?
How Much Do They Earn?
Annual median salary: $48,500
Entry-level annual salary: $38,566
Supply and Demand
Supply and Demand
Over 26 million American adults have kidney disease, with millions more at risk, especially those with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history. Early detection can prevent the worsening of chronic kidney disease, but advanced cases may lead to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a transplant. The longer life expectancy for kidney disease patients is driving strong job growth for dialysis technicians.
Educational Requirements
Educational Requirements
Dialysis technicians need a high school diploma or GED and must complete an approved training program, often available through vocational schools or community colleges as part of an associate degree in nephrology or medical technology.
For More Information:
Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology: https://bonent.org/approved-training-programs/
Licensure Requirements
Licensure Requirements
New York doesn’t require licensure for dialysis technicians but mandates completion of a state approved program, covering first aid, safety, hygiene, and dialysis equipment maintenance. Certification can be obtained through several national organizations.
For More Information:
National Nephrology Certification Organization: https://www.nncc-exam.org/
Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology: https://bonent.org/
Financial Support
Financial Support
Financial support can come from various federal, state, and private sources. Contact your college or university to learn about the financial aid options they offer, as well as other potential sources of funding that may be available.
Education Programs
Education Programs
| Institution | Degree | City/Town | Region | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Queensborough Community College CUNY | Certificate | Bayside | New York City | Visit |
New York Medical Career Training Center | Certificate | Flushing | New York City | Visit |
New York City College of Technology CUNY | Certificate | Brooklyn | New York City | Visit |
Nassau Community College | Certificate | Garden City | Long Island | Visit |
Jefferson Community College | Certificate | Watertown | North Country | Visit |
Dialysis 4 Career | Certificate | Hempstead | Long Island | Visit |
Borough of Manhattan Community College CUNY | Certificate | New York City | New York City | Visit |