How to Become a Dialysis Technician in Missouri

The significance of dialysis technicians in the healthcare industry is paramount, as the absence of dialysis machines and skilled operators would result in accelerated health deterioration for many individuals.

While operating a dialysis machine may not seem glamorous, this occupation offers great rewards for those driven by the desire to assist others.

Explore the following details to gain comprehensive insights into the field of dialysis technology.

Dialysis Technician Job Description in Missouri

Embarking on a career without a clear understanding of your job responsibilities is unwise.

Dialysis technicians in Missouri play a pivotal role in the care of patients dealing with kidney issues.

Their primary responsibilities include:

• Ensuring the dialysis machine’s proper functioning and adjusting it according to each patient’s specific needs.
• Monitoring patients’ vital signs during dialysis procedures.
• Providing essential assistance to patients throughout the dialysis process, ensuring their safety and comfort.
• Thoroughly reviewing patients’ medical histories to identify any underlying conditions that may require special attention during dialysis.
• Adjusting dialysis machines to cater to individual patient requirements.
• Administering oxygen when necessary.
• Performing Basic Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) if required.

While these tasks form the core of a dialysis technician’s role, day-to-day duties may vary as situations demand.

Dialysis Technician Requirements in Missouri

Aspiring dialysis technicians in Missouri operate within a diverse healthcare landscape, serving patients through various healthcare systems.

The state maintains no rigid training and certification prerequisites for dialysis technicians; instead, they adhere to guidelines set by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

To meet CMS standards, prospective dialysis technicians must fulfill the following requirements:

• High school diploma or GED
• Training
• Credentialing
• Competency Standards of Practice
• Licensure or certification
• Accumulate

Acquire licensure or certification within 18 months of commencing employment.

National-level certification can be obtained through examinations offered by recognized 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

The guidelines for certification include a written and practical examination.

Certified dialysis technicians must also engage in continuous education by completing courses every two years and passing recertification exams every four years.

Dialysis Technician Training Schools in Missouri

Prospective dialysis technicians in Missouri must complete an appropriate training program before seeking employment.

The educational journey commences with a high school diploma or GED.

High school students should prioritize coursework in:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Medical terminology
• Anatomy
• Physiology

The comprehensive training required for this role is offered by post-secondary educational institutions, including vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes.

These institutions provide specialized training in subjects like:

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

Typically, a full training program takes around a year to complete.

Missouri has several institutions with approved dialysis technician courses to prepare students for this fulfilling career.

Calhoun Community College

Calhoun Community College provides a 50-hour training program designed to equip individuals with essential skills.

This program offers two flexible options for completion: online and in a traditional classroom setting.

For the online course, tuition is $1,299, which includes access to ebooks.

Students have a six-month timeframe to successfully complete the program.

It’s important to note that refunds are applicable exclusively to in-person classes.

Auburn University

Auburn University offers a comprehensive dialysis technician program available entirely online.

With a tuition fee of $3,000, students gain access to a wealth of resources.

Here are the ones that stand out the most:

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

This program follows a self-paced learning approach, with an expected completion period of up to six months.

Alabama State University

Alabama State University presents an online training program tailored to aspiring Certified Hemodialysis Technicians (CHT).

This program aligns with the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT) exam, making it accessible to students across states.

The full tuition for this program amounts to $4,190, offering the convenience of payment in installments.

Students have 12 months to complete the program, even if they opt for a self-paced learning approach.

Furthermore, CPR training and certification are integral components of the course, administered by the Red Cross.

Course content encompasses a diverse range of subjects:

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

Dialysis Technician Salary in Missouri

Understanding potential income is vital when embarking on a new career path.

Dialysis technicians in Missouri generally hold an entry-level position, with an average salary of around $41,900.

For information on cities in Missouri where dialysis technician salaries are higher, consult the relevant salary table.

Regional Salary in Missouri

Dialysis Technician by State