PURPOSE AND SCOPE:
Functions as part of the dialysis health care team in providing safe and effective dialysis therapy for patients under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse in accordance with organization policies, procedures, training, and regulations set forth by the corporation, state, and federal agencies. Responsible for the setup and operation of hemodialysis machines, assistance in maintaining a safe and clean environment, and support of the organization’s commitment to the Quality Enhancement Program (QEP) and continuous quality improvement activities.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Patient Related
Education:
- Assist other health care members in providing patient-specific education regarding adequate measures (OLC, AMP, UKM) and disease processes/access.
Treatment:
- Welcome assigned patients and inquire about their wellbeing since the last treatment.
- Evaluate vascular access for patency, cannulate, and administer heparin as delegated or permitted by state law.
- Obtain pre- and post-treatment vital signs, weight, and perform vascular access evaluation.
- Initiate dialysis treatment according to prescribed orders (QB, QD). Evaluate intradialytic problems and intervene as directed.
- Monitor patient response, record vital signs, and complete necessary documentation.
- Discontinue dialysis and evaluate patient prior to termination of venous access, including blood pressure checks.
- Apply hemostasis and appropriate dressings, evaluate patient prior to discharge, and record pre- and post-dialysis evaluations.
- Calculate and enter dialysis machine programming for UF goals, treatment time, and UF modeling.
- Ensure safety alarms are enabled and record treatment parameters on the Hemodialysis Treatment Sheet.
- Document changes in patient condition and alert registered nurse or supervisor.
- Perform machine safety checks, document interventions, and manage vascular access pressure monitoring.
- Obtain laboratory testing, prepare specimens, and maintain blood spill cleanup procedures.
- Organize supplies to prevent wastage and support patients performing self-care under RN supervision.
Staff Related
- Assist in training direct patient care staff on program protocols under nurse supervision.
Education/Communication:
- Follow all organization business policies, procedures, and ethical practices.
- Maintain environmental integrity and aesthetics, ensuring safety and cleanliness.
- Clean dialysis machine surface, chair, equipment, and surrounding area between treatments.
- Prepare and document pre-treatment dialysis machine alarm testing (e.g., Pressure Holding).
- Initiate Solution Delivery System (SDS).
Record Keeping:
- Complete and document Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) activities.
- Enter all treatment data accurately and timely into the clinical application.
- Review treatment sheets for completeness, ensure nursing signatures, and correct omissions.
- Prepare initial patient charts and compile paperwork for placement.
- Print lab requisitions, collect, label, and store lab samples per specifications, and coordinate courier collection.
Infection Control:
- Assist in collecting information for infection control audits.
- Support staff and patient adherence to infection control practices.
- Follow infection control policies and procedures.
- Participate in infection control education of patients and families under CM direction.
Transitional Care Unit:
- Follow newly admitted patients through their first 4 weeks of dialysis and coordinate transitional care.
- Reinforce education and care matters for new patients.
- Coordinate with FKC staff to schedule all disciplines per plan.
- Assist patients in understanding home dialysis products and benefits.
- Set and perform treatments on unit machines.
- Demonstrate peritoneal dialysis set-up and assist with modality transition.
- Assist with supply ordering and inventory for TCU.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:
- The physical demands and work environment described are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Employees are required to take the Ishihara's Color Blindness test as a condition of employment. Failing the test does not preclude employment; reasonable accommodations can be considered.
- Day‑to‑day work includes desk and computer work, patient interaction, facility staff, and physician collaboration. Travel between assigned facilities and community locations may be required, including regional, business unit, and corporate meetings.
- The work environment is a healthcare facility with controlled temperature and moderate noise levels and possible exposure to infectious materials.
- Requires heavy lifting, patient assistance with ambulation, frequent prolonged standing, bending, pushing/pulling up to 15 lbs, lifting up to 30–40 lbs at 5 feet, and use of two‑person assists and material assist devices.
EDUCATION AND LICENSES:
- High school diploma or G.E.D. required.
- Meet CMS‑approved state and/or national certification requirements within required timelines.
- Maintain all appropriate state licensure, education, and training as required.
- Demonstrate commitment to organizational culture, values, and customer service standards.
EXPERIENCE AND REQUIRED SKILLS:
- Previous patient care experience in a hospital or related facility preferred.
- Successful completion of the organization’s dialysis training program and CPR certification required.
- Ability to work variable schedules.
The rate of pay for this position will depend on the successful candidate’s work location and qualifications, including relevant education, work experience, skills, and competencies.
Hourly Rate: $24.00 - $30.00
Benefit Overview: This position offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and parental leave.
Fresenius Medical Care maintains a drug‑free workplace in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.