Nationally Certified Multi-Skilled Dialysis Technician
CIP Code: 51.1011 • 125 questions • 2.5 hours • Passing score: 70% • Annual renewal
Overview
This credential validates multi-skilled readiness to deliver safe hemodialysis care. Certified Dialysis Technicians set up and operate dialysis machines, manage water treatment and dialysate quality, cannulate and care for vascular access, monitor patients and ultrafiltration goals, document treatment data, and respond to complications in collaboration with the RN and nephrologist.
- Nationally recognized Multi-Skilled Stackable
- Listed in the NHWCA National Registry for employer verification
- Annual renewal: $199 • 10 CEU • Active CPR • No lapse
Why Multi-Skilled?
NHWCA’s multi-skilled model verifies cross-functional competency in water treatment, machine operation, access care, patient monitoring, infection control, emergency response, and documentation—so dialysis centers can staff flexibly with one certified professional per station.
Job Description
A Dialysis Technician prepares the treatment area, performs machine setup and priming, conducts pre-treatment assessment and vitals, cannulates AV fistula/graft or manages CVC per protocol, monitors treatment parameters and patient status, troubleshoots alarms, documents in the EHR/LIS, and assists with termination and post-treatment care.
Qualifications (choose one)
- Graduate of an allied health or dialysis training program; or
- Trained on the job by an accredited dialysis facility; or
- Experience: 3 months verifiable dialysis experience.
All candidates must meet age, ID, and conduct requirements per the NHWCA Candidate Handbook.
Exam Structure & Timing
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Question Count | 125 multiple-choice (100 scored + 25 pilot) |
| Time Limit | 2.5 hours (150 minutes) |
| Passing Score | 70% or higher |
| Delivery | Online or approved testing site, proctored, closed-book |
| Question Style | Scenario-based and knowledge-based items |
Exam Domains & Weighting
| Domain | Weight | Approx. Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Assessment & Treatment Monitoring | 20% | ~25 |
| Vascular Access: Cannulation & Care | 20% | ~25 |
| Machine Setup, Operation & Troubleshooting | 20% | ~25 |
| Water Treatment & Dialysate Quality | 15% | ~19 |
| Infection Control & Safety | 15% | ~19 |
| Complications, Emergencies & Documentation | 10% | ~12 |
Totals reflect 100 scored items; 25 pilot items do not affect score.
Practice Questions (10)
Included with registration inside the candidate portal. These do not affect your score but mirror the style and depth of the live exam.
Renewal
- Cycle: Annual
- Requirements: $199 • 10 CEU • Active CPR • No lapse
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