Dialysis Technician

APPROVED DIALYSIS TECHNICIAN TRAINING PROGRAM

The Dialysis Technician Certificate program combines classroom

instruction with hands-on training to provide students with the

opportunity to master the specific fundamental skills and duties that

are necessary to properly assist patients who are undergoing dialysis

treatment. Students will learn the basic principles of dialysis, including

how it works, what it does, and how it’s different from other treatments.

They’ll also learn about the equipment used in the process, how to

work safely around dialysis machines, and how to conduct themselves

professionally during their time at the hospital.

PCHCG Medical Clinic is now affiliated with BONENT (Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing & Technology)

Dialysis Technician program includes:

INTRODUCTION TO HEMODIALYSIS AND CLINICAL MANIFESTATION OF RENAL DISEASE
This section is designed to provide an understanding of the basic principles, diseases, and problems in the treatment of chronic kidney disease. A broad overview of hemodialysis and its application in the care of ESRD patients is provided. Other areas to be covered will include Initial and ongoing assessment of the patient and continuous monitoring of the dialysis equipment
HEMODIALYSIS I
This section will allow the student to learn how and why water is treated before being used for dialysis. It covers the types of contaminants commonly found in water, how they can affect patients, parts of a water treatment system, and monitoring of a water treatment system.
ASEPSIS, NUTRITION AND PHARMACOLOGY
This course section will focus on how Infection control is used in the dialysis setting to prevent patients and staff from acquiring infections specific to the dialysis unit. Incorporating policies and procedures that include surveillance and monitoring activities for water treatment, dialyzer reuse, bacterial contamination, and transmission of blood-borne and other infectious diseases.
HEMODIALYSIS II
This portion of the program will be hands-on, daily demonstration of all materials covered at this point. Major area of focus will include, but will not be limited to, dialysis access, machine set-up, programing the machine, and bringing the patient to the treatment area.
PSYCHOSOCIAL-ASPECT, PATIENT EDUCATION AND QUALITY MANAGEMENT
This course is designed to assist students entering the health care field to learn the basic principles of the human behavior and thus apply a personalized approach to the delivery of the health care. There is an emphasis on the psycho-social aspects of the hemodialysis patient and the caretaker’s relationship.

Dialysis Technician Training Course Outline

1. Introduction to Dialysis and Renal System

Basic Anatomy and Physiology of the Kidney
- Structure and function of the kidneys
- Overview of the urinary system
- Understanding kidney failure and its causes
Introduction to Dialysis
- What is dialysis?
- Types of dialysis: Hemodialysis vs Peritoneal dialysis
- Indications for dialysis
Renal Diseases and Disorders
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
- Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
- Dialysis as a treatment option

2. Hemodialysis Procedure

Principles of Hemodialysis

- How hemodialysis works
- Dialysis machine setup
- Blood circulation and filtration process

Dialysis Access Sites

- Arteriovenous fistulas and grafts
- Central venous catheters
- Vascular access management

Dialysis Machine Components and Functionality

- Parts of the dialysis machine
- Blood flow rate, dialysate, and ultrafiltration settings
- Safety features and alarms

Preparing and Monitoring Dialysis Treatment

- Pre-treatment assessment
- Patient positioning and comfort
- Monitoring vital signs during treatment
- Troubleshooting machine alarms

3. Peritoneal Dialysis

Principles of Peritoneal Dialysis
- How peritoneal dialysis differs from hemodialysis
- Components and equipment used
- The peritoneal cavity as a natural filter
Types of Peritoneal Dialysis
- Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD)
- Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD)
Procedure and Equipment Management
- Catheter insertion and care
- Dialysate management
- Infection control in peritoneal dialysis
Patient Education and Support
- Proper techniques for home dialysis
- Daily management and hygiene practices

4. Patient Care and Communication

Pre-Dialysis Assessment and Patient History
- Gathering medical history and vitals
- Identifying contraindications or complications
Patient Interaction and Communication Skills
- Establishing rapport with patients
- Managing patient anxiety and expectations
- Communicating effectively with patients and the medical team
Post-Dialysis Care and Follow-Up
- Observing for complications (e.g., hypotension, bleeding, infection)
- Managing patient discomfort or complaints
- Patient education on self-care and lifestyle changes

5. Infection Control and Safety Protocols

Infection Control Practices

- Hand hygiene and sterile techniques
- Prevention of dialysis-related infections (e.g., bloodstream infections, peritonitis)
- Safe disposal of dialysis-related materials

Emergency Procedures

- Handling machine malfunctions
- Recognizing and managing dialysis-related complications
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid

6. Dialysis Technology Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Maintenance of Dialysis Machines
- Cleaning and disinfection protocols
- Regular machine checks and preventive maintenance
Troubleshooting Equipment Issues
- Diagnosing common machine problems
- Responding to alarms and warnings
Quality Assurance
- Ensuring quality control in dialysis procedures
- Documentation and record-keeping

7. Legal, Ethical, and Professional Issues

Legal Responsibilities of a Dialysis Technician
- Confidentiality and patient privacy (HIPAA compliance)
- Ethical decision-making in patient care
Professionalism and Work Ethics
- Maintaining professional conduct
- Collaboration within the healthcare team
Regulations and Standards in Dialysis Care
- Adherence to healthcare guidelines and certifications

Duration and Certification

The Dialysis Technician Training Coursetypically lasts between 6 months to 1 year, depending on whether it’s a full-time or part-time course.
Upon successful completion, students are awarded a Certification in Dialysis Technology, which may be recognized by healthcare institutions and regulatory bodies.

Practical Hands-on Training

A significant portion of the course includes clinical practice, where students work under supervision in a real dialysis setting, learning to set up and operate dialysis machines, monitor patient status, and assist in emergencies.

Personal Care Home C&G Medical Clinic (PCHCG)

Personal Care Home C&G Medical Clinic (PCHCG) is offering this training, the program may include the following key features:

Experienced Trainers: Instructors with hands-on experience in dialysis and clinical care.
Clinical Placements: Students may have the opportunity for on-the-job training at affiliated clinics or hospitals, where they gain real-world experience in dialysis procedures.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: PCHCG may offer access to modern dialysis machines and equipment for training.
Personalized Support: Smaller class sizes for one-on-one attention and guidance.
Post-Training Employment Support: Many programs offer job placement assistance, which may include helping students connect with clinics and hospitals for potential employment after completing the course.

Enrollment Requirements

A high school diploma or equivalent
Basic knowledge of anatomy and healthcare
Some programs may require previous healthcare experience or training, although some will offer entry-level courses.

Cost and Financial Aid

The cost of the course varies depending on the institution, but financial aid or installment payment options may be available for eligible students.

Contact Information

For specific details about the Dialysis Technician Training Course offered by PCHCG, you should contact the clinic directly or visit their website. They can provide up-to-date information on enrollment, course dates, and any other questions you might have about the program.