How to Become a Dialysis Technician in Kentucky

Without the presence of dialysis machines and skilled operators, the lives of many individuals would be at greater risk, potentially leading to faster deterioration of their health.

This underscores the crucial role of dialysis technicians within the medical industry.

While the task of operating a dialysis machine may not initially appear glamorous, it is a profoundly fulfilling career choice for those with a deep desire to assist others.

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

Read on to discover comprehensive information about Dialysis Technician roles in Kentucky!

Dialysis Technician Job Description in Kentucky

Choosing a career without a clear understanding of your responsibilities is unwise.

First and foremost, it’s essential to know that dialysis technicians in Kentucky primarily work with patients who have kidney-related issues.

Their principal duty revolves around ensuring the proper functioning of dialysis machines and operating them according to each patient’s unique needs.

Here are some additional tasks associated with this profession:

• Monitoring the vital signs of patients
• Assisting patients throughout the dialysis procedure
• Ensuring the safety and comfort of patients
• Reviewing patients’ medical histories to see if they also have other conditions requiring special attention
• Adjusting dialysis machines as necessary to accommodate patients’ needs
• Administering oxygen if it’s required
• Providing basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if needed

These represent some of the most common responsibilities of dialysis technicians, although their day-to-day duties can vary.

Dialysis Technician Requirements in Kentucky

In Kentucky, individuals embarking on this career path are governed by the private sector.

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

Consequently, these professionals must adhere to the 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 commencing employment.

You can get a certification from one of the following organizations:

• 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 technicians must also engage in continuing education courses every two years and complete the recertification exam every four years.

Dialysis Technician Training Schools in Kentucky

Aspiring dialysis technicians in Kentucky must complete a comprehensive training program before seeking employment in this field.

First, you need 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 process begins at post-secondary educational institutions, including vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes.

During this phase, students delve into topics such as the principles of:

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

The institutions with approved courses for Kentucky can be seen below.

Auburn University

Auburn University offers a fully online dialysis technician program with a tuition fee of $3,000.

This fee covers these perks:

• Interactive learning modules,
• Various learning exercises,
• Access to career resources,
• Round-the-clock mentoring support,
• Opportunities for national and state certifications,
• Self-paced learning.

Calhoun Community College

Calhoun Community College provides a 50-hour training program.

It can be completed through two methods: online or in a classroom setting.

However, students from Kentucky only have access to the option, the tuition fee is $1,299, and it includes e-books.

Students are required to complete the program within half a year.

Unfortunately, students cannot request for their tuition money to be returned.

Alabama State University

This university has an online training program designed for individuals preparing for the Certified Hemodialysis Technicians (CHT) exam, administered BONENT.

This program is accessible to students from other states, though they should ensure that it aligns with their respective state regulations.

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 encompass various topics:

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

Dialysis Technician Salary in Kentucky

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

Dialysis technicians typically earn an annual salary of $41,400 in this state.

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

Regional Salary in Kentucky

Dialysis Technician by State