How to Become a Dialysis Technician in Utah

Without dialysis machines and the skilled individuals to operate them, the lives of many people would be considerably shorter.

This highlights the critical role of dialysis technicians in the medical field.

Although operating a dialysis machine may not appear glamorous, it offers a fulfilling career path for those who are passionate about helping others.

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

Dialysis Technician Job Description in Utah

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

Dialysis technicians in Utah primarily work with patients who have kidney-related issues.

Their primary duty is to ensure the proper functioning of dialysis machines and to operate them in accordance with each patient’s specific needs.

Additional responsibilities 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 Utah

In Utah, those looking to pursue this profession must follow the guidelines established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) since 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 various 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.

Utah-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 Utah

Aspiring dialysis technicians in Utah 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 such as 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 typically takes about a year.

The approved educational institutions in Utah providing these programs are:

Calhoun Community College

Calhoun Community College provides a comprehensive 50-hour training program.

The program comes with two flexible options for completion:

• Online:
  • This option, priced at $1,299, includes e-books and offers a 6-month timeframe for program completion.
• Classroom:
  • The in-person classroom option, available at a cost of $999, also provides the necessary textbooks.

Classes take place on Mondays and Wednesdays, commencing at 6 p.m.

Please note that refunds are exclusively applicable to the in-person classroom sessions.

Auburn University

Auburn University presents a fully online dialysis technician program with a tuition fee of $3,000.

The fee covers the following:

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

The course is designed to be completed within 6 months.

Alabama State University

Alabama State University (ASU) offers an online training program for Certified Hemodialysis Technicians (CHT).

For this, students must pass the exam administered by the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT).

This program is accessible to students from other states, though they should ensure its alignment with their respective state regulations.

The complete tuition for this comprehensive program is $4,190, providing the convenience of installment payments.

The program spans 205 hours, allowing students to learn at their own pace within a 12-month timeframe.

CPR training and certification are included as part of the course, 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 equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in the field of hemodialysis.

Dialysis Technician Salary in Utah

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

Dialysis technicians typically hold entry-level positions, with an average salary of around $48,300.

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

Regional Salary in Utah

Dialysis Technician by State