Hemodialysis Program

	Program projected to begin Fall 2012; consequently, syllabi are not available at this time.
	Download the Catalog & Handbook for more information

Hemodialysis Certificate

The mission of the Hemodialysis Patient Care Specialist program is to provide education equips health care workers with the skills, knowledge, and attitude necessary to succeed in the field of hemodialysis.

1. Provide education which acknowledges individual differences and respects the right of individuals to seek fulfillment of educational needs.
2. Provide an environment which encourages the individual to benefit and contribute as a partner in the economic progress, development, and stability of Georgia.
3. Provide education which develops the potential of each student to become a productive, responsible, and upwardly mobile member of society.
4. Provide quality hemodialysis education in an atmosphere that fosters interest in and enthusiasm for learning.
5. Prepare graduates to function as accountable and responsible members within their field of endeavor.
6. Prepare graduates to function as safe and competent employees in the field of hemodialysis.
7. Prepare program graduates with the highest level of competence possible given the constraints of the interests and ability levels of the individual.
8. Provide educational and related services without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, handicapping condition, academic disadvantage, or economic disadvantage.
9. Foster employer participation, understanding, and confidence in the instructional process and the competence of Hemodialysis program graduates.
   
   

Hemodialysis patient care specialists operate machines that remove waste and excess fluids from the blood of patients whose kidneys can no longer carry out those functions. hemodialysis patient care specialists are also referred to as dialysis technicians, renal dialysis technicians, hemodialysis technicians, or nephrology technicians. They work under the supervision of physicians, primarily in hospitals and clinics. Dialysis technicians must fully understand the operation of the kidney dialysis machines. They are responsible for their operation, cleaning, and sterilization. They must also fully understand their patients' needs. Dialysis technicians carefully monitor and record weight and vital signs before, during, and after the blood cleansing procedures. Additionally, they instruct patients about in-home treatments. Because dialysis technicians work with blood, they must exercise strict safety precautions against infectious diseases such as hepatitis and AIDS.

Tasks a Hemodialysis Patient Care Specialists may perform include:

• Provide direct care and monitor patients undergoing dialysis
• Preparing and sterilize equipment
• Provide education to patients concerning dialysis