How to Become a Dialysis Technician in North Dakota

In North Dakota, the absence of dialysis machines and skilled operators would significantly hasten the decline in the health of many individuals.

While the operation of a dialysis machine may not be inherently glamorous, it represents a gratifying profession for those with a passion for aiding others.

If you seek to delve deeper into this occupation, you’ve come to the right place, so read on!

Dialysis Technician Job Description in North Dakota

Choosing a profession without a clear understanding of its responsibilities is not advisable.

For aspiring dialysis technicians in North Dakota, it’s imperative to grasp the essence of their role.

Dialysis technicians primarily work with patients who have kidney-related ailments.

Their central responsibility is to ensure the seamless functioning of dialysis machines, tailor their operation to meet the specific requirements of patients, and deliver crucial support during the dialysis process.

Additional duties 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

These tasks constitute the core responsibilities of a dialysis technician.

Dialysis Technician Requirements in North Dakota

North Dakota does not impose stringent training and certification requirements for dialysis technicians.

However, they must adhere to the guidelines established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

The CMS outlines the prerequisites for aspiring dialysis technicians, which encompass:

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

Importantly, certification must be obtained within 18 months from the commencement of employment.

Dialysis technician candidates can opt for certification examinations recognized at the national level.

Here they are:

• 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 existing guidance for dialysis technician practice in North Dakota is derived from the state’s Board of Nursing, which prescribes written and practical tests as part of the certification process.

Dialysis Technician Training Schools in North Dakota

Aspiring dialysis technicians in North Dakota must undertake formal training programs to prepare for their careers.

The journey begins with a high school diploma or GED.

In high school, prospective candidates should pay particular attention to courses covering subjects like:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Medical terminology
• Anatomy
• Physiology

An adequate training program typically spans about a year, providing students with comprehensive preparation for their future roles as dialysis technicians.

Some classes students will attend are:

• 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 North Dakota that offer approved courses in this field.

Calhoun Community College

This college offers a 50-hour long training program.

There are 2 ways of completing the program:

• Online
• In a classroom

The tuition for the online option is $1,299 and the ebooks are included.

This program has to be finished in 6 months.

The classroom option costs $999 and this fee also includes the textbooks.

These classes are held on Mondays and Wednesdays, starting at 6 p.m.

Refunds are done only for the in-person classes.

Auburn University

Auburn University has a dialysis technician program that is offered fully online.

The $3,000 tuition covers:

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

It is expected of students to complete their classes in up to 6 months.

Alabama State University

ASU offers an online training program for the Certified Hemodialysis Technicians (CHT) exam.

This means the program can easily be attended by students from other states, but they need to ensure it meets their state’s regulations.

The full tuition for this program is $4,190 which can be paid in installments.

The program has 205 hours that have to be completed in 12 months, even when learning at your own pace.

CPR training and certification are included in the course and the Red Cross offers it.

Some classes include:

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

Dialysis Technician Salary in North Dakota

Prior to embarking on a career path, it’s prudent to have an understanding of the potential income one can expect.

Dialysis technicians, typically occupying an entry-level position, earn an average annual salary of approximately $49,100 in North Dakota.

If you’re curious about which cities in this state offer higher salaries for dialysis technicians, consult the table below for more information.

Regional Salary in North Dakota

Dialysis Technician by State