How to Become a Dialysis Technician in Iowa

Without dialysis machines and skilled operators, many lives would be at risk of ending prematurely.

This underscores the vital role of dialysis technicians in the medical field.

While operating a dialysis machine may not initially sound glamorous, it is a profoundly rewarding occupation for individuals dedicated to helping others.

If you’re interested in learning more about this profession, you’ve come to the right place.

Keep reading to discover comprehensive information about the Dialysis Technician role in Iowa.

Dialysis Technician Job Description in Iowa

Making an informed career choice begins with understanding your responsibilities.

First and foremost, dialysis technicians in Iowa work with patients facing kidney-related challenges.

Their primary duty revolves around ensuring the proper functioning of dialysis machines and tailoring their operation to meet each patient’s unique requirements.

Here are some additional responsibilities associated with this profession:

• 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 most common tasks performed by dialysis technicians, although day-to-day responsibilities may vary.

Dialysis Technician Requirements in Iowa

In Iowa, those pursuing this career path operate within the jurisdiction of the private sector.

Iowa does not enforce stringent training and certification requirements for dialysis technicians.

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

According to CMS standards, aspiring dialysis technicians must meet the following criteria:

• 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 secured within 18 months of commencing employment.

Candidates can pursue certification through various national-level examinations, like:

• 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

Each institution has different standards regarding the duration of the program for certification.

Additionally, each of them also has different requirements when it comes to certification renewal.

For instance, candidates must successfully pass both a written and practical examination.

Dialysis Technician Training Schools in Iowa

It is essential for aspiring dialysis technicians in Iowa to complete a comprehensive training program before seeking employment in this field.

The journey begins with a high school diploma or GED.

During high school, candidates should focus on relevant subjects such as biology, chemistry, medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology.

However, the formal training begins at post-secondary educational institutions, including vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes.

During this phase, students delve into topics such as:

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

Below, you can find a list of institutions in Iowa offering approved dialysis technician training courses:

Auburn University

Auburn University offers a fully online dialysis technician program.

The tuition is $3,000, which covers:

• Interactive learning modules
• Learning exercises
• Career Resources
• 24/7 mentoring
• Opportunities for national and state certifications
• Self-paced learning

Students are expected to finish the program within 6 months.

Alabama State University

Alabama State University offers an online training program for those preparing for the Certified Hemodialysis Technicians (CHT) exam offered by the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT).

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

The full tuition for this program is $4,190, payable in installments.

Students have 12 months to complete the 205-hour program, even when studying at their own pace.

CPR training and certification are included in the course and are provided by the Red Cross.

Course topics include:

• The Cardiovascular System
• The Urinary System
• The Endocrine System
• The Reproductive System
• Infection Control
• Principles of Hemodialysis

Calhoun Community College

Calhoun Community College provides a comprehensive 50-hour training program, which can be completed in two different formats:

For the online option, the tuition is $1,299 and includes e-books.

The program must be completed within a 6-month timeframe.

Dialysis Technician Salary in Iowa

Understanding the potential income associated with your chosen career path is crucial.

Dialysis technicians typically hold entry-level positions and earn an approximate annual salary of $42,100 in Iowa.

If you’re curious about which cities in Iowa offer higher salaries for dialysis technicians, please refer to the following table:

Regional Salary in Iowa

Dialysis Technician by State