PURPOSE AND SCOPE:
Supports FMCNA’s mission, vision, core values, and customer service philosophy. Adheres to the FMCNA Compliance Program, including following all regulatory and FMS policy requirements.
Functions as part of the hemodialysis healthcare team in providing safe and effective dialysis therapy for patients under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse, in accordance with FMCNA policies, procedures, training, and in compliance with regulations set forth by the corporation, state, and federal agencies. Responsible for the setup and operation of hemodialysis machines. Assists in maintaining a safe and clean working environment. Supports the FMCNA commitment to the Quality Enhancement Program (QEP) and CQI activities, including those related to patient satisfaction, and actively participates in process improvement activities that help achieve the FMC Quality Enhancement Goals.
DUTIES / ACTIVITIES:
CUSTOMER SERVICE:
- Responsible for driving the FMS culture through values and customer service standards.
- Accountable for outstanding customer service to all external and internal customers.
- Develops and maintains effective relationships through effective and timely communication.
- Takes initiative and action to respond, resolve, and follow up regarding customer service issues with all customers in a timely manner.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
PATIENT CARE:
- Assist other healthcare members in providing patient-specific education regarding adequacy measures such as OLC, AMP, UKM, and disease process/access.
- Welcome patients and inquire about their well-being since their last treatment. Report any complaints or observations to the nurse supervisor.
- Evaluate vascular access for patency and report unusual findings.
- Obtain pre- and post-treatment vital signs and weight, report any abnormalities.
- Perform vascular access evaluation and cannulation, reporting difficulties or unusual findings.
- Administer Heparin as delegated or allowed by law.
- Initiate dialysis treatment according to orders, including blood and dialysate flow rates.
- Monitor response to therapy, evaluate intradialytic problems, and report findings.
- Discontinue treatment following procedures, evaluate patient prior to termination, and document all relevant information.
- Perform and record pre- and post-dialysis evaluations, weights, and vital signs.
- Calculate and program dialysis machines for UF, treatment time, and modeling parameters.
- Ensure safety alarms are enabled and record treatment data accurately.
- Document patient treatment details and report significant changes or findings.
- Observe patient and perform safety checks, intervening as needed.
- Maintain vascular access and perform lab specimen collection as required.
MAINTENANCE/TECHNICAL:
- Maintain a safe and clean environment, disinfect equipment, and prepare for dialysis treatment.
- Conduct alarm testing, initiate SDS system, and clean spills promptly.
- Prepare and organize supplies efficiently.
CLERICAL & ADMINISTRATIVE:
- Participate in CQI activities and document treatment data accurately.
- Review and complete treatment sheets and paperwork.
- Prepare charts and lab requisitions, collect and store lab samples, and coordinate specimen transport.
OTHER:
Perform additional duties as assigned.
ADDITIONAL FOR HOME PROGRAMS:
Assist the HT RN with home visits, patient education, supply management, and equipment setup. Support patient care and administrative tasks related to home dialysis.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:
Includes lifting, standing, and working in healthcare environments with exposure to infectious materials. Reasonable accommodations may be provided.
EDUCATION:
- CMS-approved certification or high school diploma/GED with certification within required timelines.
- State licensure, education, and training as required.
EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:
- Preferred previous patient care experience; no healthcare experience required for training.
- Successful completion of dialysis training and CPR certification required.