Spectrum Dialysis Certified Hemodialysis Technician ACUTE

Job Summary:

Under the supervision of the Chief Technician, Nurse Manager, Charge Nurse, or Staff RN, the Hemodialysis Technician assists the nursing staff with the preparation of dialysis equipment and provides direct support during the treatment and care of patients. All responsibilities are carried out in accordance with the established policies and procedures of the dialysis center.

Qualifications:

1. High school diploma or equivalent — Required
   
2. Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification from the American Heart Association — Required
   
3. Certified Hemodialysis Technician through:
   • Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT) or
     
   • National Association of Nephrology Technicians/Technologists (NANT) — Required
     
4. Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently — Bilingual preferred
   
5. Minimum of one (1) year experience in a healthcare setting, preferably involving direct patient care as a certified hemodialysis technician — Preferred
   

Duties and Responsibilities:

Patient Care Activities:

1. Perform routine dialysis procedures, including:
   • Insertion of fistula needles
   • Initiation and termination of treatments
2. Administer Heparin and Normal Saline per physician order and protocol.
3. Conduct and document pre-dialysis safety tests accurately.
4. Monitor and record:
   • Blood flow rates
   • Machine pressures
   • Heparin dosages
   • Blood pressure readings during treatment
5. Make frequent rounds to patients, anticipating needs, responding to calls, and managing audible or visual equipment alarms.
6. Ensure all dialysis machine safety parameters are correctly set and maintained.
7. Assist in positioning, lifting, and turning of patients using proper body mechanics.
8. Take and record vital signs before, during, and after the dialysis procedure.
9. Monitor patient status throughout treatment and immediately report any abnormal signs or symptoms to the nurse.
10. Obtain and properly label blood specimens; complete laboratory requisitions.
11. Spin blood specimens in a centrifuge, as required.
12. Complete all required documentation accurately and report any unusual events to the supervisor.

Other Duties:

1. Perform and document water quality checks, including:
   • Hard water testing
   • Chloramine testing
2. Maintain accurate and up-to-date logs in accordance with center policies.
3. Prepare, organize, and distribute supplies before treatment sessions or as part of routine procedures.
4. Restock supplies in designated areas; assist with supply inventory.
5. Receive and verify shipments of supplies; report discrepancies and submit packing slips promptly.
6. Clean and maintain dialysis machines and associated equipment per facility protocols.
7. Report malfunctioning or unsafe equipment immediately to the supervisor.
8. Maintain a clean, safe, and orderly work environment.
9. Establish and maintain positive relationships with patients, visitors, and staff while preserving patient confidentiality.
10. Actively participate in staff meetings, in-services, and unit-based activities.
11. Attend required educational sessions to maintain competencies and stay current on new procedures and standards of care.