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Without dialysis machines and the skilled professionals to operate them, the lives of many individuals would be at risk, leading to faster deterioration of health.
This underscores the paramount importance of dialysis technicians in the healthcare sector.
Managing a dialysis machine may not initially seem glamorous but it offers a profoundly rewarding career for those wishing to make a difference in the lives of others.
If you’re keen on learning more about this profession, you’ve come to the right place!
Read on to explore comprehensive information about the role of Dialysis Technicians in Kansas!
Article Table of Contents
Dialysis Technician Job Description in Kansas
Making informed career choices begins with understanding your job responsibilities.
First and foremost, dialysis technicians in Kansas are dedicated to assisting patients dealing with kidney-related issues.
Their primary responsibility revolves around ensuring the smooth operation of dialysis machines and adapting their use to meet the specific needs of each patient.
Here are some additional tasks associated with this profession:
- Monitoring vital signs of patients
- Providing assistance to patients throughout the dialysis procedure
- Ensuring the safety and comfort of patients
- Reviewing patients’ medical history to address any underlying health conditions
- Ensuring there are no concurrent health issues requiring attention during the procedure
- Fine-tuning dialysis machines to cater to the unique needs of patients
- Administering oxygen when necessary
- Performing Basic Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) if required
These represent some of the most common job responsibilities of dialysis technicians, though their day-to-day duties can vary.
Dialysis Technician Requirements in Kansas
In Kansas, individuals pursuing a career as dialysis technicians fall under the jurisdiction of the private sector.
Kansas does not impose strict training and certification requirements for dialysis technicians.
You will also have to follow the guidelines set by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
According to CMS standards, aspiring dialysis technicians must meet the following criteria:
- Possession of a high school diploma or GED
- Completion of a training program
- Credentialing
- Adherence to Competency Standards of Practice
- Licensure or certification
Certification must be obtained within 18 months of commencing employment.
Candidates can pursue certification through:
- The Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC) and its Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT) Exam
- The Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT) and the Certified Hemodialysis Technician (CHT) Exam
- The National Nephrology Certification Organization, Inc. (NNCO) offers these tests:
- Certified in Clinical Nephrology Technology (CCNT) Exam
- Certified in Biomedical Nephrology Technology (CBNT) Exam
Kansas-specific guidelines for this profession are established by the Kansas Board of Nursing.
For instance, candidates must successfully pass both a written and practical examination.
Certified technicians must also engage in continuing education courses every two years and complete the recertification exam every four years.
Dialysis Technician Training Schools in Kansas
Aspiring dialysis technicians in Kansas must complete a comprehensive training program before seeking employment in this field.
The journey begins with a high school diploma or GED.
During high school, candidates should focus on relevant subjects such as:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Medical terminology
- Anatomy
- Physiology
However, the formal training process begins at post-secondary educational institutions, including vocational schools, community colleges, and technical institutes.
During this phase, students delve into these topics:
- Principles of dialysis
- Care of patients with kidney failure
- Possible complications of dialysis
- Water treatment and dialysate preparation
- Infection control
- Safety Dialyzer reprocessing
Usually, these training programs span about a year.
Here are some institutions approved to offer training classes in Kansas for future dialysis technicians.
Calhoun Community College 
Calhoun Community College offers a 50-hour training program offered to those from other states, like Kansas.
The tuition fee is $1,299, and it includes e-books.
Students are required to complete the program within a 6-month timeframe.
Refunds are not applicable for online classes.
Auburn University 
Auburn University provides a fully online dialysis technician program with a tuition fee of $3,000.
This fee encompasses various components, including:
- Interactive learning modules,
- 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 their coursework within 6 months.
Alabama State University 
Alabama State University offers an online training program for individuals preparing for the Certified Hemodialysis Technicians (CHT) exam, offered by BONENT.
This program is accessible to students from other states, but they should ensure it aligns with their respective state regulations.
The total tuition fee for this program is $4,190, and it can be paid in installments.
Students have 12 months to complete the 205-hour program, even when studying at their own pace.
CPR training and certification are included in the course and are provided by the Red Cross.
Course topics cover:
- Cardiovascular System,
- Urinary System,
- Endocrine System,
- Reproductive System,
- Infection Control,
- Principles of Hemodialysis.
| School Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Calhoun Community College | online |
| Auburn University | online |
| Alabama State University | online |
Dialysis Technician Salary in Kansas
Understanding the potential income associated with your chosen career path is crucial.
Dialysis technicians typically hold entry-level positions and earn an approximate annual salary of $41,900 in Kansas.
If you’re curious about which cities in Kansas offer higher salaries for dialysis technicians, please refer to the following table:
Annual Salary Range:| Location | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Kansas City | $43,100 |
| Winona | $42,800 |
| Prescott | $42,700 |
| Atchison | $42,100 |
| Rexford | $42,100 |
| Wallace | $42,100 |
| Winchester | $41,600 |
| Sycamore | $41,500 |
| Thayer | $41,300 |
| Arma | $40,800 |
Regional Salary in Kansas
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lawrence, KS | 70 | $59,180 | $28.45 | $77,140 | $35,670 |
| Manhattan, KS | 90 | $53,470 | $25.71 | $76,980 | $33,200 |
| Topeka, KS | 230 | $56,540 | $27.18 | $85,430 | $33,180 |
| Wichita, KS | 420 | $52,790 | $25.38 | $72,300 | $33,220 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Other Skills Are Required for a Dialysis Technician in Kansas?
Dialysis techs must possess a series of skills and abilities.
These include:
- Attention to details
- Excellent communication
- Empathy
- Patience
- Compassion
- Technical mind
Do I need a license or a certification to work as a dialysis technician in Kansas?
In Kansas, individuals only need a certification recognized at the national level if they want to work as dialysis technicians.
Where Does a Dialysis Technician in Kansas Find Work?
There are many different settings where a dialysis technician can find employment.
The following locations are the most common:
- Hospitals
- Dialysis centers
- Outpatient clinics
- Home healthcare agencies
Read the full guide: How to Become a Dialysis Technician
Dialysis Technician by State