Hemodialysis Technician

Description:
Under general supervision of the Department Administrator, Assistant Department Administrator, Charge Nurse, or Registered Hemodialysis Nurse. Prepare the unit for dialysis treatment, including setting up machines, quality control of equipment and simple troubleshooting of dialysis machines. Initiate and terminate dialysis treatment as prescribed by physician. Perform intra-dialysis checks, monitoring and other patient care related duties under the direct supervision of the Hemodialysis Nurse. Prepare and distribute concentrate solution as per departments policy and procedure. Perform supply inventory, ordering and re-stocking. Participates in QM, CQI and other unit projects. Clean and keep the unit safe and clutter free. Sterilize and clean dialysis machine and equipment. Perform other duties as assigned.

• The following duties and responsibilities generally reflect the expectations of this position but are not intended to be all inclusive.


• Patient Care:


• Provide therapeutic care to patients in accordance with treatment prescription and nursing policies, procedures, standards and schedules. Receive patient into treatment area; perform and record weight, vital signs and all other parameters of ESRD patients per policy and/or state regulation pre & post dialysis; documents all data gathered and reports to RN. May recommend dialysis ultra-filtration plan to RN, observe and monitor status of vascular access, initiate dialysis via approved dialysis accesses using proper cannulation techniques, and comply with infection control and safety measures. Document activities appropriately.


• Follows infection control policies


• Prepare dialysate per policy & procedure.


• Data Collection of designated patient information


• Initiate, monitor and terminate dialysis treatment. Constant monitoring of patient.  


• Initiates appropriate emergency procedures and report unusual conditions.


• Assist nurses and physicians as directed during routine and emergency procedures. Monitor and evaluate test readings during procedures.


• Stock, distribute and maintain supplies for hemodialysis patients.


• Inventory, order and restock all supplies and equipment as required in unit. Clean and restock work area


• Perform only under direction of an RN:  Instruct patient in the care of vascular access  Review prescription  Reinforce treatment care with patient


• Administer quality patient care in a considerate, respectful manner at all times


• Performs all functions conscientiously and in a timely manner within established guidelines


• Equipment Care


• Set up and monitor dialysis machines and Reverse Osmosis system  Prepare dialysate according to policy & procedure Assist in the maintenance of dialysis equipment.


• Clean and sterilize equipment using hospital-approved disinfectant. Monitor operation of equipment for leaks, restrict flow, and pump failures. Calibrate and adjust equipment in preparation for and during procedures. Keep all equipment clean and operative. Trouble shoots and performs minor equipment repair. Perform quality control and safety checks of equipment and instruments and record findings. Perform chemical testing and analyzing and record findings. Document findings and report any malfunctioning equipment timely and appropriately


• Operates other equipment or machine such glucometers, ph meter and various test strips for water quality testing. Clean and sterilize equipment using hospital-approved disinfectant. Performs QC of machine and document findings


• Quality Assurance


• Completes treatment records after each treatment according to policies & procedures  


• Know and comply with Infection Control policy and safety program


• Administrative and other:


• Maintain current licensure and certifications.


• Attend conferences, huddles, meeting and in-service training programs.


• Maintain proficiency in clinical skills.


• Know facility emergency plans and act appropriately in an emergency


• Assume other activities and responsibilities from time to time as directed.


• Consistent, regular, punctual attendance as scheduled is an essential responsibility of this position.