Dialysis Technicians

High School

If you are interested in working as a dialysis technician, you should take biology, chemistry, and health classes while in high school. Mathematics classes will also be beneficial, since you will be working with numbers and equations as you determine the appropriate treatment for each patient. English classes will help you develop your communication skills and improve your ability to follow directions and record information. You may also want to take computer classes so that you are comfortable working with technical equipment. Finally, consider taking any class, such as psychology, that will give you insight into dealing with people.

Postsecondary Training

Although there is a movement toward providing more formal academic training in the field of renal dialysis, presently only a few two-year dialysis preparatory programs exist in technical schools and junior colleges. Many people entering the field have some type of experience in a patient-care setting or college training in biology, chemistry, or health-related fields. By far, the majority of technicians learn their skills through on-the-job training at the first hospital or dialysis center where they are employed. Therefore, you should be extremely inquisitive, willing to learn, and able to work as a team member. Inquire at local hospitals and dialysis centers to find out what type of training they offer and their admission requirements. Training may range from several weeks to a year or more. Typically, the training programs include class study on such topics as anatomy, principles of dialysis, and patient care, as well as supervised clinical practice.

Other Education or Training

The National Association of Nephrology Technicians/Technologists offers an annual symposium that features workshops on technical topics and a professional development workshop that provides tips on career advancement. The National Kidney Foundation also provides continuing education opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.