Renal Dialysis Technician

Program Information

Location: Downtown Milwaukee Campus
Pathway: Healthcare
Program Code: 31-517-1
Offering: In-class
Degree Type: Technical Diploma
Start Dates: August

About the Renal Dialysis Technician Diploma

Description

Prepare for a healthcare career as a renal dialysis technician (RDT). Under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, RDTs set up dialysis equipment, prepare dialysate solutions, perform venipuncture and monitor patient responses during the procedure. RDTs also are responsible for quality control and maintenance of the equipment.

Employment opportunities exist in hospitals or freestanding dialysis centers.

This program features exploratory courses that count toward a credential. Contact an MATC advisor for information.

Additional program details: Renal dialysis is a treatment for patients with kidney failure. RDTs, under the direct supervision of a registered nurse, are responsible for setting up equipment, preparing dialysate solutions, performing venipuncture, and monitoring patient responses during the procedure. In addition, RDTs are responsible for cleaning, quality control, and maintenance of dialysis equipment.

Be aware that this program and occupational field have potential for exposure to blood; job-related duties require manual dexterity, and physical strength and endurance to perform a variety of lifting and transferring tasks related to patient care treatments.

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Detailed Program Information

2021-22 Curriculum

Course	Course Name	Credits
ENG-195	Written Communication (or) ENG-201 English 1 ‡	3
HEALTH-101	Medical Terminology *	3
PSYCH-199	Psychology of Human Relations * (or) PSYCH-231 Introductory Psychology	3
RDIAT-302	Renal Failure and Support Therapies ‡	3
RDIAT-304	Hemodialysis Laboratory Procedures ‡	1
RDIAT-320	Introduction to Renal Dialysis ‡	3
RDIAT-321	Principles of Renal Dialysis 1 ‡	4
RDIAT-322	Principles of Renal Dialysis 2 ‡	3
RDIAT-323	Clinical Practicum 1 ‡	2
RDIAT-324	Clinical Practicum 2 ‡	3
	TOTAL CREDITS	28

‡ Prerequisite required.
* It is strongly recommended that these courses be completed prior to entering the program.

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.

Current MATC students should consult their Academic Program Plan for specific curriculum requirements.

Search for available classes now (link) to see course descriptions, class times and locations.

Already a student? You can visit Self-Service (link) and choose Student Planning to register for classes.

2021-2022 Program Card

View/print the program card: front (png) | back (png)

Important Dates

Fall Start: Register for classes in April

Additional deadlines and important dates can be found on Cost & Aid Deadlines

Also, you can find dates and deadlines on the MATC Calendar

Program Outcomes

Adhere to infection control and safety principles
Demonstrate safe operation of renal dialysis treatment machine and related equipment
Demonstrate competent and safe patient care skills
Model professionalism as a renal dialysis technician

Career Outlook

Renal Dialysis Technicians (RDTs) are in high demand and find employment in hospitals or freestanding dialysis centers. For additional career information, visit kidney.org.