How to Become a Dialysis Technician in Connecticut

Dialysis machines and the professionals who operate them play a critical role in extending the lives of many individuals.

This highlights the essential contribution of dialysis technicians in the healthcare sector.

While the operation of dialysis machines may not be considered glamorous especially since this is an entry-level position, it is a rewarding career path for those dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

If you wish to explore this occupation further, you are in the right place.

Continue reading to learn more!

Dialysis Technician Job Description in Connecticut

It’s not wise to choose a career path without knowing more about it.

These professionals work with those having some sort of kidney failure.

Their primary duty involves:

• Ensuring the correct operation of dialysis machines
• Adjusting them to meet the specific requirements of each patient

That’s not all, because there are several other responsibilities associated with this profession:

• Monitoring patients’ vital signs
• Assisting patients during the dialysis procedure
• Ensuring the safety and comfort of patients
• Reviewing patients’ medical histories to ensure there are no additional conditions requiring attention during the procedure
• Administering oxygen if necessary
• Providing basic CPR if needed

Not all these job duties may be required on a daily basis, though.

The oversight and enforcement of state regulations for dialysis technician training and certification in Connecticut are carried out by the Connecticut Department of Public Health.

In this state, dialysis techs are allowed by the Department to administer saline, heparin, or lidocaine when they start or finish the dialysis treatment.

However, this must follow the following rules:

• The ratio of on-duty staff providing care to dialysis patients is at least 3:9
• One of the three staff persons is a registered nurse licensed to practice in the state
• The dialysis technician has been certified by an approved organization

Dialysis Technician Requirements in Connecticut

In this state, these techs must carry a certification.

This is obtained by following these steps:

• Obtain a high school diploma or GED.
• Complete training.
• Obtain credentials
• Meet competency standards.
• Obtain certification in less than 18 months since starting work

The certification has to be obtained through a State or a National program.

Technicians are expected to become quite familiar with state and federal laws.

These next certifications are recognized nationwide:

• The Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC) offers the Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT) Exam
• The Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT) organizes the Certified Hemodialysis Technician (CHT) Exam
• The National Nephrology Certification Organization, Inc. (NNCO) offers 2 exams:
  • Certified in Clinical Nephrology Technology (CCNT) Exam
  • Certified in Biomedical Nephrology Technology (CBNT) Exam

Dialysis Technician Training Schools in Connecticut

Dialysis technicians in Connecticut must undergo formal training before they can enter the field.

The first step is to obtain a high school diploma or a GED.

In high school, aspiring technicians should focus on subjects such as:

• Biology,
• Chemistry,
• Medical terminology,
• Anatomy,
• Physiology.

However, the formal training process begins at post-secondary educational institutions, which can include vocational schools, community colleges, or technical institutes.

Throughout their training, students will explore a range of topics, including:

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

Typically, completing an appropriate training program takes around one year.

It’s worth noting that there may not be many schools in Connecticut that offer dialysis technician training, so some students may choose to attend programs in other states.

Let’s have a look!

Alabama State University

Alabama State University offers an online training program meant to prepare students for the Certified Hemodialysis Technicians (CHT) exam.

This test is administered by the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT).

This program is accessible to students from other states, but they need to ensure that it aligns with their respective state’s regulations.

The full tuition cost for this program is $4,190, and students have the option to pay it in installments.

The program consists of a total of 205 hours, and students are required to complete these hours within a 12-month timeframe, even if they choose to progress at their own pace.

Additionally, the course includes CPR training and certification, which is provided by the Red Cross.

The course curriculum covers a range of subjects, including:

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

Dialysis Technician Salary in Connecticut

When contemplating a career choice, it’s crucial to have a grasp of your potential earnings.

In Connecticut, dialysis technicians generally begin in entry-level roles, with a median annual salary of $47,400.

For insight into which cities in Connecticut offer higher salary prospects, consult the table below.

Regional Salary in Connecticut

Dialysis Technician by State