Hemodialysis

New program!

Train for a rewarding career as a hemodialysis technician. The Hemodialysis Technician program is designed to prepare you for employment as a hemodialysis or dialysis technician. Hemodialysis Technicians care for patients in end-stage renal failure, also known as kidney failure. Ideal candidates for this program include those with a background in science, such as biology or chemistry, or in health care, such as CNAs, medical assistants and phlebotomists.

Certified hemodialysis technicians (CHT) follow physician's orders and work under the supervision of nurses in dialysis clinics, hospitals and other facilities. They operate sophisticated and technical medical equipment to remove excess fluids and toxins from a patient's system. CHTs record patient data during dialysis, help patients with end-stage renal disease, learn safe and effective dialysis treatments and ensure high-quality care for patients.

The hemodialysis program at College of DuPage includes 350 hours of classroom and hands-on training to prepare you for the Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician Examination issued through BONENT. Students will have the opportunity to complete 100 hours in clinical observation in a dialysis medical facility upon successful completion of the lecture series and labs.

This program is BONENT approved and accredited. The Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT) is a nonprofit organization and certifying agency promoting excellence in the quality of care of nephrology patients in the United States and many countries around the world.

Careers

As a hemodialysis technician, you will work directly with patients under the supervision of a registered nurse to prepare the dialysis machine and supplies, administer local anesthesia, prep and monitor the patient, complete medical documentation and communicate with the patient and the nurse.

Because of the aging population and higher incidence of kidney disease, the career outlook for hemodialysis technicians is excellent and mirrors the 13 percent job growth seen for medical and clinical lab technicians overall, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Technicians can earn salaries between $24,210 and $56,040.

Upcoming Course

Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, February 11 to August 1
6 to 9:30 p.m. (no class March 25, 27 or 28, May 27, July 4 or Sept. 27)
Clinical Observation dates: August 2 to September 27
(Classes do not meet during clinical observation. Students should be prepared to work regular business hours to complete 100 hours.)
HLHTS-0006-501, $4,700
On Campus in Glen Ellyn

For more information or to register, call Program Coordinator Gail McPike at (630) 942-2524 or email healthcare@cod.edu.

See the Hemodialysis information sheet for program details. For our complete listing of programs and courses, see the current Continuing Education catalog.