Clinical Hemodialysis Technician Or Licensed Practical Nurse

The Clinical Hemodialysis Technician functions as an interdisciplinary team member to meet patient and family care needs within the Mayo Clinic Dialysis Services (MCDS) system. Under the supervision of the RN, is responsible for providing assistance in the provision of dialysis services through multiple roles. These roles include but are not limited to: direct patient care and observations, basic hemodialysis techniques and procedures, equipment maintenance, water treatment monitoring, vascular access monitoring, cleaning and disinfection of the hemodialysis machine, preparation of bicarbonate dialysate and acid concentrate, drawing blood samples and preparing them for transport, and performing both simple and complex laboratory tests and the required quality controls. Participation in quality improvement activities to maintain patient care standards is also expected. The Clinical Hemodialysis Technician carries out designated skills that are within these functions limited by law to unlicensed nursing personnel, as covered in the Core Curriculum for the Dialysis Technician and as written into the policies and procedures of Mayo Clinic.

The licensed practical nurse (LPN) provides nursing care to assigned patients under the direct supervision of the registered nurse (RN) or other assigned supervisor and accepts delegation from the RN/assigned supervisor in meeting the needs of the patient/family. The LPN collects data through observation and communicates information to assist the RN and/or provider in patient assessment and care planning. The LPN participates as a member of the health care team and accepts delegation from the RN/assigned supervisor and provider in meeting needs of the patient/family. The LPN delivers care in accordance with the patient care plan, policies and procedures of the organization and principles of relationship-based care. The LPN possesses excellent communication skills; is skillful in mentoring and instructing; and may participate on committees or projects, including quality improvement projects.

Clinical Hemodialysis Technician:

High School diploma or equivalent required. Completion of courses in basic sciences OR Certified nursing assistant training course required OR 1 year of direct patient care experience in a hospital setting or other health care setting OR RN student with 1 semester of clinical coursework completed OR completion of a Dialysis Technician training program.

License or certification:

Maintains current Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers from one of the following programs: American Heart Association (BLS for Healthcare Providers). Red Cross (CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and Health Care Providers) Military Training Network. Successful completion of Hemodialysis Patient Care Technician national certification exam, within 18 months of hire when hired after 14 October 2008. Exam offered by the State, BONENT, NNCC, or NNCO.

Licensed Practical Nurse:

Graduate or student graduating from a school of practical nursing or passed LPN Boards after a defined period in a professional nursing program (e.g., some states allow RN students to take the LPN board exam after completing one to two years in the RN program). If graduation did not occur within the last two years, one year of LPN experience working in an applicable setting is required.

License or certification:

Current LPN license by applicable state requirements. Maintains current Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers from one of the following programs: American Heart Association or American Red Cross. Additional state licensure(s) and/or specialty certification/training as required by the work area.