How to Become a Dialysis Technician in Oregon

The crucial role of dialysis machines and the professionals operating them cannot be underestimated, as they significantly impact the lives of many individuals.

While the manipulation of a dialysis machine may not carry an aura of glamour, it holds the potential for a fulfilling career.

For an in-depth understanding of this profession, continue reading.

Dialysis Technician Job Description in Oregon

Dialysis technicians in Oregon primarily work with patients grappling with kidney-related issues.

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

Additional key responsibilities within this profession 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

Other duties may pop up from time to time.

Dialysis Technician Requirements in Oregon

Oregon does not impose stringent training and certification prerequisites for dialysis technicians.

Technicians are expected to adhere to the guidelines provided by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

As per CMS directives, aspiring dialysis technicians in Oregon must satisfy the following requirements:

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

Certification should be acquired within 18 months of initiating employment.

Aspiring technicians can choose from a selection of nationally recognized certification examinations.

Let’s see them as well as the organizations organizing them:

• 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 state of Oregon offers limited guidelines for this profession.

These include written and practical tests as part of the licensing process.

Dialysis Technician Training Schools in Oregon

As we have established, dialysis technicians in Oregon are required to complete a formal training program before entering the workforce.

The first step is to graduate from high school or attain a GED.

During high school, candidates should place a special emphasis on subjects like:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Medical terminology
• Anatomy
• Physiology

The core training begins at post-secondary educational institutions, which may include vocational schools, community colleges, or technical institutes.

In these educational settings, students delve into subjects such as:

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

Typically, it takes approximately one year to complete a suitable training program.

Calhoun Community College

Calhoun Community College offers a comprehensive 50-hour training program that provides two distinct pathways to completion:

Online Learning

Students can opt for online instruction, which comes with a tuition fee of $1,299.

The online option also includes access to e-books.

Classroom-Based Instruction

Alternatively, there is a classroom-based option available for a tuition fee of $999, which also covers the cost of textbooks.

Classroom sessions are held on Mondays and Wednesdays, commencing at 6 p.m.

Auburn University

Auburn University offers a fully online dialysis technician program.

The program is priced at $3,000 and encompasses a range of valuable components:

• 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 required to complete the program within a maximum timeframe of 6 months.

Alabama State University

Alabama State University presents an online training program tailored for individuals preparing for the CHT exam, organized by the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology.

This program is accessible to students from other states.

The program is priced at $4,190 and offers the convenience of installment payments.

The coursework lasts for 205 hours and it must be completed within a 12-month period, even for those learning at their own pace.

The course also includes CPR training and certification, which is offered in collaboration with the Red Cross.

Course content covers a range of critical areas, including:

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

Dialysis Technician Salary in Oregon

Gaining insight into your potential income before embarking on a career is essential.

Dialysis technicians typically occupy entry-level positions, with an average annual salary of $51,400.

For a breakdown of cities in Oregon where salaries may be higher, please consult the following table:

Regional Salary in Oregon

Dialysis Technician by State