Wednesday, 30 May 2012

Online Classes and Courses for Dialysis Technicians

Coupled with hands-on training, online courses in dialysis technology can be part of a program that prepares students for dialysis technician certification. Courses cover topics like kidney function, hemodialysis and trends in the field. Continuing education courses addressing more specific topics are also available online, and they can count toward recertification requirements.

Courses for Dialysis Technicians Online

Dialysis technicians provide dialysis treatment to patients and ensure regulatory compliance of renal replacement therapy machines in hospitals and clinics. Titles of dialysis technicians vary and may include dialysis patient care technician, hemodialysis technician, renal dialysis technician or clinical nephrology technician. Online courses in dialysis technology can be part of a certificate program that provides the fundamental theoretical knowledge portion of a technologist's training.
Dialysis technicians also need on-the-job experience, and they must pass a certification exam administered by a recognized authority. The Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT), the National Nephrology Certification Organization (NNCO) and the Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC) provide certifications. State requirements vary, but most require continuing medical education annually. Qualifying continuing education courses are available online.

Requirements for Online Dialysis Technician Courses

To take part in these courses you need to have regular access to an updated computer with high-speed Internet access. Some courses require a word processing program and Adobe Acrobat Reader for assignments. A personal e-mail address is generally recommended for communicating with professors and classmates. A sound card with speakers and a monitor capable of high-color display are also required. Courses often have specific recommendations regarding supported browsers, browser settings and required plug-ins.

List of Online Dialysis Technician Courses

Renal Anatomy, Physiology and Terminology Course

In this course, students will learn about the origins of medical terms pertaining to the field, the significance of the parts of these words and commonly used abbreviations and acronyms. Students will also learn about the causes and effects of renal system failure.

Principles of Dialysis Course

This course discusses the tools and tests used in the diagnosis and management of renal failure. Specific topics include common patient concerns, the principles behind the filtration process, various access sites used and commonly administered medications.

Dialysis Environment and Procedures Course

Federal and state regulations, certification options and the evolution of the field of dialysis are the focus of this course. Laws regarding patient documentation, personal development resources and required safety practices are discussed. Also provided is an overview of the disease process, patient rights and the needs of specific populations.

Dialysis Delivery Course

This course discusses the dialysis delivery system, the path blood and dialysate take through the body and equipment, components of the system and safety options. Also discussed are the responsibilities of the dialysis technician in ensuring proper equipment function and addressing potential complications during dialysis delivery.

Continuing Education and Contact Hour Activities Online

CEU4U (www.ceu4u.com) and the American Nephrology Nurses' Association (ANNA) (www.anna.inurse.com) are two providers of dialysis education online. Offerings range and cover topics pertaining to regulations, patient care and quality control. Some courses serve as continuing education credit, while others count toward contact hours. Courses also vary in terms of which state and national certification authorities recognize them.

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