About the position
The position functions as a vital part of the dialysis healthcare team, providing safe and effective dialysis therapy for patients under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse. This role adheres to organizational policies, procedures, and training while complying with regulations set forth by the corporation, state, and federal agencies. The primary responsibility includes the setup and operation of hemodialysis machines, ensuring a safe and clean working environment, and supporting the organization's commitment to the Quality Enhancement Program (QEP) and Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) activities. The individual actively participates in process improvement activities that enhance the likelihood of patients achieving the organization's Quality Enhancement Goals (QEP). In terms of patient-related education, the role involves assisting other healthcare members in providing detailed education to patients regarding adequacy measures, including Online Clearance Monitoring (OLC), Adequacy Monitoring Program (AMP), and Urea Kinetic Modeling (UKM). The position requires welcoming assigned patients, evaluating their vascular access for patency, performing cannulation, administering heparin as delegated, and obtaining necessary pre and post-treatment vital signs and weights. The individual is responsible for initiating dialysis treatment according to prescribed orders, monitoring patients' responses, and documenting all relevant information accurately. The role also includes responsibilities related to record-keeping, infection control, and transitional care unit activities. The individual must complete and document ongoing participation in Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) activities, ensure compliance with infection control policies, and assist in the coordination of transitional dialysis care for newly admitted patients. The physical demands of the job include heavy lifting, prolonged periods of standing, and the ability to bend over, with reasonable accommodations made for individuals with disabilities. The work environment is characteristic of a healthcare facility, requiring interaction with patients, facility staff, and physicians, and may involve travel between assigned facilities and various locations within the community.
Responsibilities
- Assist in providing safe and effective dialysis therapy under the supervision of a licensed nurse.
- Set up and operate hemodialysis machines according to established procedures.
- Evaluate vascular access for patency and perform vascular access cannulation.
- Administer heparin as delegated or allowed by state law.
- Obtain necessary pre and post-treatment vital signs and weight.
- Initiate dialysis treatment according to prescribed orders, including blood flow and dialysate flow.
- Monitor patients' responses to dialysis therapy and document all relevant functions necessary for treatment discontinuation.
- Evaluate patients' vascular access during treatment and provide appropriate interventions as needed.
- Ensure appropriate safety alarms are enabled on dialysis machines.
- Document accurate and timely information regarding vital signs and treatment parameters.
- Assist in training applicable direct patient care staff under the supervision of a nurse.
- Participate in infection control audits and support adherence to infection control practices.
- Follow newly admitted patients through their first four weeks of dialysis and coordinate their transitional dialysis care.
Requirements
- High School diploma or G.E.D. required.
- Must meet Center for Medicaid/Medicare Services (CMS)-approved state and/or national certification requirements.
- Previous patient care experience in a hospital setting or related facility preferred.
- Successful completion of the organization's dialysis training program and CPR certification.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience in a healthcare setting with direct patient care responsibilities.
- Knowledge of dialysis treatment processes and patient education techniques.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
- 401k retirement savings plan with matching contributions.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development and training programs.
- Employee assistance programs for mental health support.
