How to Become a Dialysis Technician in Hawaii

Without dialysis machines and skilled operators, the lives of many people could be significantly shortened.

This underscores the vital role of dialysis technicians in the healthcare industry.

While the operation of dialysis machines may not seem glamorous, it offers a fulfilling career for those who have a genuine desire to assist others.

If you’re interested in learning more about this profession, you’re in the right place, so read on!

Dialysis Technician Job Description in Hawaii

Before committing to a profession, it’s crucial to understand the scope of your responsibilities.

Dialysis technicians in Hawaii primarily work with patients experiencing kidney issues.

Their core duty involves ensuring the proper functioning of dialysis machines and adjusting them to meet individual patient requirements.

Here are some additional tasks they perform:

• Monitoring patients’ vital signs
• Providing assistance during dialysis procedures
• Ensuring patients’ safety and comfort
• Reviewing medical histories to address potential complications
• Administering oxygen when necessary
• Performing Basic Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) if required

These represent some of the common responsibilities of a dialysis technician, but day-to-day tasks may vary.

Dialysis Technician Requirements in Hawaii

In Hawaii, individuals pursuing a career as dialysis technicians fall under the jurisdiction of the private sector.

Hawaii does not impose strict training and certification requirements for dialysis technicians.

Instead, these professionals must adhere to guidelines established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

The CMS outlines the following prerequisites for aspiring dialysis technicians:

• Possession of a high school diploma or GED
• Completion of a training program
• Credentialing
• Adherence to Competency Standards of Practice
• Licensure or certification

Certification must be obtained within 18 months of starting employment.

Prospective technicians can pursue national-level certifications through exams.

These are administered by organizations such as:

• The Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC)
  • Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT) Exam
• The Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT)
  • Certified Hemodialysis Technician (CHT) Exam
• The National Nephrology Certification Organization, Inc. (NNCO)
  • Certified in Clinical Nephrology Technology (CCNT) Exam
  • Certified in Biomedical Nephrology Technology (CBNT) Exam

Certified dialysis technicians must also undertake continuing education every two years and pass recertification exams every four years.

Dialysis Technician Training Schools in Hawaii

To become a dialysis technician in Hawaii, individuals must first graduate from high school or obtain a GED.

During high school, it’s advisable to focus on subjects like biology, chemistry, medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology to build a strong foundation.

The formal training for dialysis technicians begins in post-secondary educational institutions such as vocational schools, community colleges, or technical institutes.

These programs delve into essential topics, including:

• Principles of dialysis
• Care of patients with kidney failure
• Possible complications of dialysis
• Water treatment and dialysate preparation
• Infection control
• Safety Dialyzer reprocessing

Completing an appropriate training program typically takes about a year.

Below you can see some institutions that offer training programs for the residents of Hawaii.

Calhoun Community College

It offers a comprehensive 50-hour training program with two flexible completion options: online and in a traditional classroom setting.

The online program, priced at $1,299, includes e-books and must be completed in 6 months.

This is the only viable option for those living in Hawaii who can’t travel out of state.

Refunds for this program are not currently available.

Auburn University

It provides a fully online dialysis technician program at a tuition cost of $3,000.

This program encompasses interactive learning modules, learning exercises, career resources, a laboratory component, 24/7 mentoring support, and national and state certification opportunities.

Students are expected to complete their coursework within a flexible six-month timeframe.

Alabama State University

ASU offers an online training program designed to prepare students for the Certified Hemodialysis Technicians (CHT) exam administered by the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT).

This program is accessible to students from other states, with the caveat that they ensure it aligns with their state’s regulations.

The full tuition for the program is $4,190, which can be paid in installments.

The program comprises 205 hours of content and must be completed within a 12-month period, allowing students to learn at their own pace.

ASU’s program also includes CPR training and certification, offered by the Red Cross.

Course topics encompass a range of subjects, including the cardiovascular system, urinary system, endocrine system, reproductive system, infection control, and principles of hemodialysis.

Dialysis Technician Salary in Hawaii

Before embarking on a career path, it’s essential to understand the potential income you can expect.

Dialysis technicians in Hawaii typically start in an entry-level position, earning a salary of about $46,200 per year.

For information on which cities in Hawaii offer higher salary prospects, check out the info below:

Regional Salary in Hawaii

Dialysis Technician by State