How to Become a Dialysis Technician in Nebraska

Nebraska plays a critical role in recognizing the significance of dialysis technicians within the healthcare sector.

These professionals fulfill a vital function by operating dialysis machines, directly impacting the health and well-being of patients afflicted by kidney-related ailments.

While the role of a dialysis technician may not appear glamorous, it paves the way for a truly rewarding career for those motivated by the desire to assist others.

If you’re intrigued by this profession and wish to delve deeper, you’ve arrived at the right place.

Keep reading for further insights.

Dialysis Technician Job Description in Nebraska

Before embarking on this career, it’s essential to grasp the associated responsibilities.

Dialysis technicians in Nebraska primarily cater to patients grappling with kidney issues.

Their core responsibility entails ensuring the efficient operation of dialysis machines and adjusting them to meet individual patient requirements.

This encompasses tasks such as:

• Monitoring the vital signs of patients
• Assisting patients throughout the dialysis procedure
• Ensuring the safety and comfort of patients
• Reviewing patients’ medical history to identify potential concerns during the procedure
• Adjusting dialysis machines to suit individual patient needs
• Administering oxygen when necessary
• Basic Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) if required

While these duties may fluctuate daily, they constitute the foundational responsibilities of a dialysis technician in Nebraska.

Dialysis Technician Requirements in Nebraska

In Nebraska, stringent requirements for dialysis technician training and certification are not in place.

The state adheres to guidelines established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

These CMS guidelines outline the criteria prospective dialysis technicians must meet, including:

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

Certification must be achieved within 18 months from the commencement of employment.

Various nationally recognized certifications are accepted in Nebraska, including:

• 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

Specific Nebraska guidelines for this profession are limited, with key requirements encompassing completing a written and practical exam.

Certified technicians must undertake continuing education courses every two years and pass a recertification exam every four years.

Dialysis Technician Training in Nebraska

Aspiring dialysis technicians in Nebraska should initiate their journey by completing high school or obtaining a GED.

High school students should focus on these subjects:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Medical terminology
• Anatomy
• Physiology

However, comprehensive training for this profession occurs in post-secondary educational institutions, including vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes.

This specialized training delves into topics like:

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

A typical training program for dialysis technicians in Nebraska spans approximately one year.

The next institutions are approved to offer online classes for students in this state.

Auburn University 

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

This comprehensive package includes:

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

Students are expected to complete their coursework within a maximum period of 6 months.

Alabama State University

Here you have access to an online training program designed for the candidates for the Certified Hemodialysis Technicians (CHT) exam.

This program is accessible to students from various states, with the condition that they confirm its alignment with their respective state regulations.

The program’s total tuition is $4,190, which can be conveniently paid in installments.

It spans 205 hours of study and must be completed within a year.

Here are some of the course topics:

• 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 with two flexible completion options.

These are online or in a traditional classroom setting.

For online learners, the tuition is $1,299 and includes e-books, while the program must be completed within 6 months.

If you prefer the classroom experience, the cost is $999, covering textbooks as well.

Please note that refunds are applicable exclusively to in-person classes.

Dialysis Technician Salary in Nebraska

Before embarking on any career path, it’s crucial to consider potential earnings.

In Nebraska, dialysis technicians typically commence at the entry-level, with a median salary of $41,300 per year.

Please refer to the provided table for insights into which cities in Nebraska offer higher salaries.

Regional Salary in Nebraska

Dialysis Technician by State