Practice Requirements for Dialysis TechniciansPosted by Ipsen Hensley on February 25th, 2021 Practice Requirements for Dialysis Technicians The number of people suffering from kidney failure has increased dramatically over the past several years. Most end stage renal disease cases are secondary to diabetes or high blood pressure and ultimately require either dialysis treatment or a kidney transplant. In an effort to address the growing demand for services, many dialysis facilities have begun hiring technicians who are trained to provide the basic services required to prepare patients for therapy and monitor them while their blood is being cleaned. This has created a unique career advancement opportunity for individuals who are willing to work with patients and who have met state and federal employment requirements. It is important for individuals who are considering a career as a technician to spend some time reviewing the training and certification regulations that affect them prior to seeking employment. A career as a dialysis technician provides individuals with a unique opportunity to make a dramatic impact on the lives of those who suffer from kidney disease. The fact that there are relatively few laws affecting technicians in this industry means that it is fairly easy for individuals to start earning a competitive salary without having to invest a lot of time and effort in a college degree and a lengthy training program. In fact, most dialysis facilities offer their own training program that prepares technicians to provide high quality care to patients. Prior to 2008, the federal government had very few requirements for how dialysis technicians were trained and certified. As the need for dialysis became more widespread, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) realized that standardized competency requirements needed to be established. Today, the CMS requires all technicians to possess a high school diploma or GED, complete an approved training program, and successfully pass a state or national certification exam within 18 months of being hired. The most common approach to complying with these new regulations is to complete a 30 to 90 day instructional period offered by a dialysis facility followed by completion of a certification exam offered through one of three national dialysis technician certification organizations. While the government allows technicians to work with dialysis patients for a period of 18 months prior to completing certification, some states require technicians to become certified within a shorter period of time. Most facility administrators will provide guidance to technicians relating to the certification process and will make sure that all technicians have met state and federal requirements. The government also requires dialysis facilities to submit documentation showing that all technicians have received training in specific areas such as equipment operation, direct patient care, and interpersonal communication skills. Most training programs also include instruction in vital sign collection, equipment maintenance, fistula access, patient monitoring, follow-up care, and emotional support. Aspiring technicians are encouraged to contact potential employers to learn more about the training programs that they offer. Technicians have a very important job in helping to deliver comprehensive care to end stage kidney disease patients. In addition to completing the necessary training and certification requirements, it is important for technicians to become involved in local, state, and national industry organizations. These organizations keep track of new practice standards and work hard to make sure that the government and insurance companies continue to include the technician profession in their reimbursement policies. Proactive involvement in the dialysis community not only allows technicians to improve their clinical skills, but also provides the opportunity to network with important individuals who can help advance a career as a technician. Local organizations and professional groups can be found by contacting the national renal network that is responsible for monitoring facilities in your area. Emploi technicien au MarocLike it? Share it! |