What does a Hemodialysis Technician do?
Hemodialysis technicians help patients with end stage renal disease (permanent kidney failure) to receive safe and effective dialysis treatments by learning what dialysis is, how dialysis was developed, how to use and maintain dialysis equipment, how to ensure high-quality care for patients and how to maintain professionalism.
One type of renal replacement therapy, meaning a treatment that replaces kidney function, is hemodialysis. Hemodialysis is a therapy that filters waste, removes extra fluid and balances electrolytes (sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride, calcium, magnesium and phosphate). While healthy kidneys have several functions in the body, the most well-known job is to produce urine. When kidney function goes below 10% to 15% kidneys are no longer able to filter the blood and make urine. This causes toxins to build up in the body along with excess fluid. Fortunately, we live in a time when there are treatments and medicines that can replace the functions of the kidneys and keep the body alive.
Are Hemodialysis Technicians in demand?
We could tell you, "Absolutely." But, we prefer to encourage you to do the research yourself. Get a copy of your local newspaper and read through the Healthcare job listings. Look for your potential job category and see for yourself how many great opportunities are available to you when you complete your Azure College training. Jump online and search some of the excellent job resource websites for opportunities in your field. The jobs are out there... so don't wait any longer if you want to work in the healthcare industry. Join Azure College and we'll prepare you quickly and thoroughly for your new career.
Where can I expect to work?
Hemodialysis Technicians work in Hospitals and in Dialysis Centers.
How soon can I complete this training?
You can complete this program in six (6) short months or in 24 weeks, and the program consists of:
| Lecture | 425 |
| Lab | 60 |
| Clinical Externship | 115 |
| Total Clock Hours | 600 |
Class Hours
| MORNING | EVENING |
Monday – Friday 8 am to 2pm |
Monday – Friday 6:00pm to 11pm |
Which skills will I learn?
Azure College’s Hemodialysis Technician training includes organs and function of the renal system, renal failure/ESRD, uremia, psychosocial aspects of renal failure, infection control and standard precautions, procedural clinical proficiency, extracorporeal circuit, and water treatments, to name a few skills. Hemodialysis Technician students are introduced to a clinical setting and work alongside a professional. We place emphasis on accuracy, legal and ethical implications relative to employment in a hospital, clinic or dialysis facility.
How much will this program cost me?
We know the answer to this question is very important to most of you. However, our program costs may change slightly with each new session. Because of this, we are unable to provide cost information through this medium. We prefer to discuss our current program costs with you personally. Please give us a call at your convenience and ask to speak to an admission advisor.
Will I receive any special certificates of my qualifications?
You will receive an Azure College Diploma and a Hemodialysis Technician Certificate.
Licensing and Certification Student who complete our program are eligible to take the following examinations:
IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING REGISTRATION:
The registration process for Allied Health Division classes vary by program. For information specific to the Hemodialysis Technician program, please call 305-751-0001.
Information Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition
Florida Commission for independent Education
Florida Workforce system
Florida Board of Nursing
The Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT)
