How to Become a Dialysis Technician in Texas

Without dialysis machines and the skilled professionals 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 Texas

Dialysis technicians in Texas primarily work with 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 Texas

In Texas, aspiring dialysis technicians must adhere to the guidelines established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) as there are no strict state-specific training and certification requirements.

The CMS outlines the following prerequisites for prospective dialysis technicians:

• 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 the next organizations:

• 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.

Texas-specific guidelines 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 Texas

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

The journey starts with high school diploma where the students must have high grades in these subjects:

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Medical terminology
• Anatomy
• Physiology

Subsequent training takes place in educational institutions like vocational schools, community colleges, and 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 Texas 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, as seen 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:

• 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 the coursework within 6 months.

Alabama State University

ASU presents an online training program tailored for those preparing to take the Certified Hemodialysis Technicians (CHT) exam administered by the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT).

This program is accessible to students from other states, provided they verify its compliance with their respective state regulations.

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

It spans 205 hours of study that can be completed within 12 months, even at a self-determined pace.

Additionally, CPR training and certification are integral components of the course, conducted by the esteemed Red Cross.

The curriculum covers various subjects, like:

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

Dialysis Technician Salary in Texas

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

Dialysis technicians typically hold entry-level positions, with a yearly wage of $50,200.

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

Regional Salary in Texas

Dialysis Technician by State