A dialysis technician works hand in hand with doctors, nurses and patients to ensure that the dialysis machine runs smoothly. It is a critical role and the medical and clinic technicians and technologists’ field is set to see rapid growth going beyond 2020, says the U.S. bureau of Labor Statistics.
Main Responsibilities
As a dialysis technician, you are expected to assemble the machine and ensure that it is working and sterile. Other duties include:
* Checking patient chart
* Administering local anesthesia and inserting needle
* Starting dialysis according to given prescription
* Checking anticoagulant and fluid rates during dialysis
* Respond to any emergencies or alarms
* Disconnect machine from patient and check patient’s vitals
Other Responsibilities
A dialysis technician job is very hands-on, there are times you will find yourself spending time with a patient. This way, you become an integral part of the patient’s care team. It is your responsibility to express your patient’s physical or emotional concerns to the nurses.
Training and Education
A dialysis technician should have a high school diploma as well as undergo through a combination of on-the-job-training and coursework. Experience in a medical field can also be a major plus. Training can be done through an employer, vocational school, community college, or by enrolling for an online dialysis technician training class. However, certification requirements will vary from one state to the next, but several national organizations help offer standardized testing.
A majority of medical technicians work in large hospitals, but others work in private doctors’ offices and laboratories. Dialysis technicians are more likely to worn in the home dialysis industry or programs. In this field, sterility is critical. So, if you are thinking of joining in as a career, you will be expected to follow strict procedures. Working in the medical field offers you full-time employment, but there may be instances when you might have to get in during weekends or evenings. But, no matter the environment, the teamwork is what saves lives.
