How to Become a Dialysis Technician in New Hampshire

Dialysis technicians play a crucial role in the healthcare sector, ensuring that individuals with kidney issues receive the vital care they need through the operation of dialysis machines.

While operating a dialysis machine may not sound glamorous, it offers a fulfilling career for those driven by a desire to help others.

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

Dialysis Technician Job Description in New Hampshire

Before embarking on a career path, it’s essential to understand the job’s responsibilities.

In New Hampshire, dialysis technicians primarily work with patients with kidney problems.

Their core responsibilities include:

• 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 are some of the common duties, a dialysis tech’s day-to-day responsibilities can vary.

Dialysis Technician Requirements in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, individuals pursuing a career as dialysis technicians are guided by regulations set by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

The CMS prerequisites include:

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

Certification must be obtained within 18 months of commencing employment.

Various national-level certifications recognized in New Hampshire include those provided by:

• The Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC)
• The Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT)
• The National Nephrology Certification Organization, Inc. (NNCO)

While New Hampshire doesn’t have many state-specific guidelines for this profession, some requirements include passing written and practical exams.

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

Dialysis Technician Training in New Hampshire

The journey to becoming a dialysis technician in New Hampshire begins with a high school diploma or a GED.

High school students should pay particular attention to subjects such as biology, chemistry, medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology.

However, the comprehensive training for this profession takes place in post-secondary educational institutions.

Vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes in New Hampshire offer specialized training covering 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 New Hampshire lasts approximately one year.

Below is a list of institutions offering approved courses for those living in this state.

Calhoun Community College

This college presents a comprehensive 50-hour training program with two distinct completion options:

• Online
• In a traditional classroom setting.

The program offers flexibility to suit your learning preferences.

For the online option, the tuition is $1,299.

You’ll receive the needed e-books as well.

The program should be successfully completed within a span of 6 months.

If you prefer in-person learning, the classroom option is available for $999, which also covers the cost of textbooks.

However, those who want classroom education will have to travel to Alabama.

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

Auburn University

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

This fee covers a wide range of educational resources and support, ensuring you receive a well-rounded learning experience:

• 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

Alabama State University’s online training program is designed for candidates for the Certified Hemodialysis Technicians (CHT) exam.

The Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT) is the organizer of this test.

This program is accessible to students from various states, but ensuring it aligns with your respective state regulations is essential.

The program’s comprehensive tuition is $4,190, which can be conveniently paid in installments to facilitate your access to quality education.

It entails 205 hours of study and must be finished within a year.

The course also includes CPR training and certification, which the Red Cross offers.

Here are some of the key classes covered in the program:

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

Dialysis Technician Salary in New Hampshire

Before pursuing any career, it’s essential to consider potential earnings.

Dialysis technicians usually start at an entry-level position, with a median yearly salary of approximately $48,000.

If you’re interested in learning about cities in New Hampshire that offer higher salaries, refer to the table below.

Regional Salary in New Hampshire

Dialysis Technician by State