How to Become a Dialysis Technician in South Dakota

Without dialysis machines and the skilled personnel to operate them, the lives of many individuals would be significantly shortened.

This underscores the vital role of dialysis technicians in the healthcare industry.

Though operating a dialysis machine may not seem glamorous, it presents a fulfilling career path for those dedicated to aiding others.

If you’re keen to learn more about this profession, you’re in the right place, so read on!

Dialysis Technician Job Description in South Dakota

Choosing a profession without a clear understanding of its responsibilities is unwise.

Dialysis technicians in South Dakota are primarily tasked with caring for patients dealing with kidney issues.

Their chief responsibility is to ensure the proper operation of dialysis machines while customizing their use to meet each patient’s unique needs.

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 represent some of the typical responsibilities of a dialysis technician, which may vary from day to day.

Dialysis Technician Requirements in South Dakota

South Dakota doesn’t have strict training and certification requirements for dialysis technicians, so adherence to the guidelines established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is essential.

The CMS stipulates that prospective dialysis technicians should possess the following:

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

Certification must be obtained within 18 months of starting employment.

Dialysis techs can pursue national certifications through various organizations, including:

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

Each of these organizations offers certification examinations that are nationally recognized.

South Dakota’s specific guidelines for this profession are set by the South Dakota Board of Nursing and may include both a written and practical exam.

Certified technicians must also fulfill ongoing education requirements, renew their certification every four years, and stay up-to-date with evolving industry standards.

Dialysis Technician Training Schools in South Dakota

Aspiring dialysis technicians in South Dakota must complete a structured training program before seeking employment.

The journey starts with a high school diploma or GED, with specific attention to relevant coursework in subjects like:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Medical terminology
• Anatomy
• Physiology

Subsequent training takes place in educational institutions like:

• Vocational schools
• Community colleges
• Technical institutes

Here, students delve 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

Completing a comprehensive training program usually requires about a year.

Please note that the approved educational institutions in South Dakota offering these programs can be found in the list below.

Calhoun Community College

At Calhoun Community College, a comprehensive 50-hour training program is available for those looking to advance their skills.

This program provides two flexible pathways for completion that I’ll present next.

Online

You can choose to complete the program online, and the tuition for this option is $1,299, which includes access to essential e-books. This program is designed to be completed within 6 months.

In a Classroom

Alternatively, you can opt for in-person classroom instruction, with a tuition fee of $999.

This classroom option also includes the necessary textbooks.

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

It’s important to note that refunds are only available for in-person classroom classes.

Auburn University

Auburn University offers a comprehensive online dialysis technician program for individuals interested in pursuing this career.

The total tuition for this program is $3,000, encompassing a wide range of features:

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

Alabama State University

ASU presents an online training program designed for aspiring CHTs preparing for the exam administered by the BONENT.

This program is accessible to students from other states, although they should ensure it complies with their state’s specific regulations.

The total tuition for this comprehensive program is $4,190, offering the convenience of payment in installments.

The program spans 205 hours, allowing you to learn at your own pace over a period of 12 months.

CPR training and certification are included as part of the course, and this certification is offered by the reputable Red Cross.

The program covers a range of essential subjects, including:

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

These classes will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in the field of hemodialysis.

Dialysis Technician Salary in South Dakota

Before embarking on a career, understanding potential income is essential.

Dialysis technicians typically hold entry-level positions, with an average salary of around $45,000.

For information on cities within South Dakota where dialysis technician salaries may be higher, refer to the table below.

Regional Salary in South Dakota

Dialysis Technician by State