DIALYSIS TECH TRAINING PROGRAM

Total Clock Hours: 340 (Clinical: 220; Theory: 120) Length: 4-5 Months

Mission and Purpose Statement:

The mission of Harvard Institute of Health Sciences (HIHS) Hemodialysis Nurse Technician Certification Program is three-fold: 1) to increase the quality of care given to patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) through an interdisciplinary approach to education; 2) to lift up the people of our community by helping turn their dreams into reality; 3) to provide students with superior education and clinical training in order to begin a successful career in healthcare. 

 

At HIHS, we not only see our students as people first but also understand that many of them are simultaneously handling multiple demands on their time, energy, and finances. So, we offer programs with flexible options and guiding support to ensure that students of all backgrounds and stages of life can pursue their dream careers.

The Dialysis Technician Profession

As kidney failure continues to be a growing national health problem, kidney disease is driving the growing demand for well-trained dialysis technicians. Dialysis technicians are employed in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and other medical facilities. The number of dialysis technician jobs has the potential to increase by more than 35% by 2030. While most dialysis technician training has historically been done “on-the-job,” today’s healthcare employers are seeking well-trained technicians who possess the necessary knowledge and skills to fill this growing number of positions.

 

Hemodialysis Technicians work with people whose kidneys no longer work properly or at all. These technicians operate machines that remove wastes, salt, and extra water from patients’ blood while keeping safe levels of certain chemicals. They work under the supervision of physicians and nurses. Dialysis patients generally use the machine for about four hours, three times a week. The technicians prepare patients, monitor, adjust settings on the machine, and perform required procedures when dialysis is completed. Dialysis technicians help patients feel comfortable during the procedure and keep the machine in good working order.

Program Objectives:

The graduate will be able to:

  • Demonstrate proper knowledge and skills in the role of hemodialysis technician.
  • Recognize and demonstrate knowledge of how to utilize and maintain equipment and supplies specific to dialysis.
  • Demonstrate skills and knowledge necessary to perform dialysis safely and effectively.
  • Qualify for employment as a hemodialysis technician.
  • Work as a member of the health care team.
  • Sit for the national certification exam.

To translate these objectives into practice, Harvard Institute of Health Sciences:

  • Commits to training and educating each student to achieve the proper and necessary skills to succeed in the workplace.
  • Provides the student with a comprehensive curriculum with emphasis on practical techniques.
  • Maintains a highly skilled and qualified interdisciplinary instructional staff.
  • Nurtures the students’ aspirations and contributions to the community.
  • Conducts business in an ethical and professional atmosphere that is a credit to vocational education and the healthcare industry.
Graduation Requirements

  1. 120 hours of didactic activity – weighted
  2. 75% cumulative grade
  3. 220 hours of clinical training
    • Demonstrate clinical competency as verified by DES Checklist
    • Fulfill attendance and financial requirements

4. A current RN or LVN/LPN license is required by completion of program

5. Must be CPR certified by completion of program

Program Basics

  • At least 120 hours of theory and 220 hours of clinicals.
  • Certificate of completion at the completion of Theory & Clinical hours.
  • Student must achieve a “C” grade (75%) or better in the program and full tuition payment to be eligible to obtain a certificate of completion.

Admissions Requirements

To be eligible for admission, a prospective student must meet the following requirements:

  • Be able to read, write, speak and understand the English language;
  • Be a minimum of 17.5 years of age; or, if under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the enrollment application. Additionally, the applicant must turn 18 prior to entering externship;
  • Interview with counselor;
  • Complete the application and pay the $ 100.00 application fee;
  • Provide the minimum refundable down payment fee of $500 to hold your sit;
  • Provide the nonrefundable registration fee of $150 to hold your sit;
  • Proof of High School Diploma or General Education Diploma (GED) or higher College Degree from an accredited school in the United States;
  • Foreign country high school diploma or higher college degree (must be in English or translated into English);
  • Must be AHA CPR/BLS certified;
  • If required, a current RN or LVN/LPN license by completion of the program;
  • Submit health standards documentation before clinical skills;
  • Complete a general physical exam and immunization – physical exam and all immunizations are due prior to clinicals, if required;
  • Take the TABE exam if not exempt from TABE testing.
  • Candidates must show proof of immunization for the following or complete titers showing immunity:
    • MMR (2 doses)
    • Varicella (2 doses)
    • Hepatitis B (proof of 1st dose at registration, with correct dosing following)
    • TDAP (within 10 years)
    • 2 step TB Skin Test (within the last 1 year, not to expire prior to the end of the course), or chest x-ray (within the last 5 years), or a t-spot blood test;
    • Corvid and flu vaccines may be required, depending on clinical site.

Note: Official immunization records/vaccines can be requested from your Primary Care Physician or the Health Department. Students are responsible for all costs associated with meeting these physical requirements.

In the United States:

Workers on average earn $51,016 / yr.

Source: Updated Aug 9, 2023: https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/dialysis-technician-salary-SRCH_KO0,19.htm

Program Description

The Hemodialysis Technicians Program provides students with the knowledge needed to perform as a dialysis technician. The program will not only provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to perform the duties required of dialysis technicians, review kidney dialysis machines, preparing dialyzer reprocessing, delivery systems and review equipment maintenance, but it will also ensure that students gain experience in every aspect of their future career with emphasis on fundamental scientific principles, vital medical knowledge, professional clinical experience, and effective interpersonal connections. This course covers the following key areas and topics:

           

  1. Didactic Components (minimum 120 hours of classroom time), covering the following topics:
  • Renal Anatomy and Physiology
  • Manifestation of Renal Failure
  • Complications of Renal Failure
  • Principles of Hemodialysis
  • Chemistry as it Pertains to the Dialysis Patient
  • Vascular Accesses
  • Complications of Dialysis
  • Confidentiality and Addressing the Patient
  • Water Treatment
  • Professional Development

 

2. Clinical Components

  • Consist of at least 220 hours of training
  • Demonstrate the dialysis treatment process

 

MODULE #

COURSE TITLE & DESCRIPTION

HOURS

1

Hemodialysis

Learn anatomy and physiology of the renal system with basic pathology and principles of hemodialysis; Learn about hemodialysis equipment and delivery systems, vascular access devices, and analysis and interpretation of laboratory data; Learn essentials of patient care, machine technology, water treatment, and dialyzer reprocessing; Learn effective communication with other hemodialysis team members and healthcare professionals; Learn about vaccinations, pharmacology, disease management, infection control and isolation, and interpretation of lab values; Learn about and understanding Hep B and C, managing patient complications, patient assessment and documentation, and leadership and/or critical thinking training. Also, learn about emergency preparedness & response management, and the roles and responsibilities of the nurse, depending on state/country.

120

2

Hemodialysis Practicum

Gain practical skills of a Hemodialysis Technician including direct care of the patient undergoing hemodialysis, operation of hemodialysis equipment and troubleshooting, analysis and interpretation of laboratory data, as well as efficient team work with other healthcare workers. Students are eligible to take the CCHT exam upon completion of a minimum of 220 hours of clinical experience.

 

220

 

Total Hours

340

 

Our curriculum is continuously updated to maintain relevance and rigor, with both process and product in mind; all courses are taught by experienced and dedicated instructors.

Upon completion of all coursework with an average of a grade “C” (75%) or better and satisfactory completion of clinical skills, students receive Harvard Institute of Health Sciences Hemodialysis Technician Certificate and are eligible to take the BONENT certification exam within 12 months of program completion, potentially earning the credential of Certified Hemodialysis Technician (CHT) or Certified Hemodialysis Nurse (CHN).

Course Schedule Options

  1. Mornings: Monday – Thursday, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM for 3.5 months
  2. Evenings: Monday – Thursday, 4 PM – 10 PM for 3.5 months
  3. Weekends: Fri – Sat, 9 AM – 6 PM for 5 months or  Sat 9 AM – 6 PM for 10 months

Course Start Dates

September 2023 – September 2024

Sep. 25

Nov. 06

Jan. 22

May. 20

Sep. 16