How to Become a Dialysis Technician in Rhode Island

Working with dialysis machines always proves to be an immensely rewarding occupation for those with a passion for helping others.

So, how can you start working as a dialysis technician in Rhode Island?

For an in-depth exploration of this profession, read on!

Dialysis Technician Job Description in Rhode Island

To embark on this journey in Rhode Island, it is crucial to comprehend that dialysis technicians primarily work with patients facing kidney-related challenges.

Their principal responsibility revolves around ensuring the dialysis machine’s proper functioning and operating it in accordance with each patient’s unique needs.

Additional crucial responsibilities within this profession are:

• 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 tasks represent some of the most common responsibilities of a dialysis technician, it is important to note that daily duties may exhibit variation.

Dialysis Technician Requirements in Rhode Island

In Rhode Island, those embarking on this journey operate within the purview of the private sector.

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

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

According to CMS directives, aspiring dialysis technicians in Rhode Island must meet the following requirements:

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

Certification should be obtained within 18 months of commencing employment.

Future techs can choose from a selection of nationally recognized certification examinations, like those administered by:

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

You will need to take a theory and practice test before getting your certification.

Dialysis Technician Training Schools in Rhode Island

As previously emphasized, dialysis technicians in Rhode Island must successfully complete a formal training program before entering the workforce.

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

During high school, candidates should prioritize subjects such as:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Medical terminology
• Anatomy
• Physiology

The training starts at post-secondary institutions, like vocational schools, community colleges, or technical institutes.

In these programs, students learn:

• 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 about one year to complete a suitable training program.

Below is a list of institutions in Rhode Island offering approved dialysis technician courses:

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 Certified Hemodialysis Technicians (CHT) exam offered by the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT).

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 is included in the course and it is offered by the Red Cross.

Some classes include:

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

Dialysis Technician Salary in Rhode Island

Gaining insight into potential income before pursuing a career is essential.

Dialysis technicians typically hold entry-level positions, with an average annual salary of approximately $53,500.

For information regarding cities in Rhode Island where salaries may be higher, please refer to the following table:

Regional Salary in Rhode Island

Dialysis Technician by State