When it comes to choosing a vocational training program, it's important to consider your interests, skills, and career goals. Two popular options in the healthcare field are becoming a hemodialysis technician or a physical therapy technician. While both careers involve helping patients, there are some key differences to consider. In this blog post, we will explore the roles of a hemodialysis technician and a physical therapy technician, the differences between the two, and the education and training required for each. We will also discuss the career outlook and salary potential for both professions.

What is a Hemodialysis Technician and Physical Therapy Technician?

Hemodialysis Technician

A hemodialysis technician, also known as a dialysis technician, is responsible for operating and maintaining dialysis machines that remove waste and excess fluid from patients' blood. These technicians work under the supervision of nurses and physicians in hospitals, dialysis centers, and other healthcare settings. Some of their key responsibilities include:

• Preparing the dialysis machine and equipment for patient use
• Monitoring patients during dialysis to ensure their safety and comfort
• Cleaning and sterilizing equipment
• Documenting patient information and treatment details
• Assisting with patient education and providing emotional support

Physical Therapy Technician

A physical therapy technician, also known as a rehab technician, works alongside physical therapists to help patients regain mobility and manage pain. These technicians typically work in physical therapy clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. Some of their key responsibilities include:

• Setting up equipment and preparing treatment areas
• Assisting patients with exercises and therapeutic activities
• Monitoring patients' progress and reporting observations to the physical therapist
• Cleaning and maintaining equipment
• Administering modalities such as heat or cold therapy as directed by the physical therapist

Difference between a Hemodialysis Technician and Physical Therapy Technician

While both hemodialysis technicians and physical therapy technicians work in the healthcare field and interact with patients, there are several key differences between the two professions. Some of these differences include:

• Scope of practice: Hemodialysis technicians primarily focus on providing dialysis treatment to patients with kidney disease, while physical therapy technicians assist in the rehabilitation and treatment of a variety of musculoskeletal conditions.
• Work environment: Hemodialysis technicians typically work in hospitals or dialysis centers, while physical therapy technicians work in physical therapy clinics or rehabilitation centers.
• Direct patient care: Hemodialysis technicians have more direct patient contact, as they are responsible for monitoring patients during dialysis treatment. Physical therapy technicians, on the other hand, primarily assist patients with exercises and therapeutic activities under the direction of a physical therapist.
• Equipment and tools: Hemodialysis technicians work with specialized dialysis machines and equipment, while physical therapy technicians work with exercise equipment, modalities, and assistive devices.

Hemodialysis Technician vs Physical Therapy Technician: Job Description

Hemodialysis Technician

Hemodialysis technicians play a crucial role in the treatment of patients with kidney disease. Some of the job duties of a hemodialysis technician include:

• Preparing the dialysis machine and equipment for each patient
• Monitoring patients' vital signs and assessing their condition during treatment
• Administering medications as prescribed by the healthcare team
• Documenting patient information and treatment details accurately
• Assisting in the setup and breakdown of dialysis treatment areas

Physical Therapy Technician

Physical therapy technicians work closely with physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries or manage chronic conditions. Some of the job duties of a physical therapy technician include:

• Assisting patients with therapeutic exercises and activities
• Setting up equipment and treatment areas for patient sessions
• Monitoring patients' progress and reporting observations to the physical therapist
• Administering modalities such as heat or cold therapy as directed by the physical therapist
• Ensuring the cleanliness and maintenance of equipment and treatment areas

Hemodialysis Technician vs Physical Therapy Technician: Education and Training

Hemodialysis Technician

To become a hemodialysis technician, individuals typically need to complete a training program and obtain certification. These programs are offered by community colleges, technical schools, and healthcare organizations. The duration of the program can vary but is usually around 6 to 12 months. Some key topics covered in a hemodialysis technician program include:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Principles of dialysis
• Infection control
• Patient assessment and monitoring
• Dialysis equipment operation and maintenance

After completing the training program, individuals can pursue certification through organizations such as the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT) or the National Nephrology Certification Organization (NNCO).

Physical Therapy Technician

To become a physical therapy technician, individuals typically need to complete a vocational training program. These programs are offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and some hospitals. The duration of the program can vary but is usually around 6 to 12 months. Some key topics covered in a physical therapy technician program include:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Therapeutic exercises and modalities
• Patient care and communication
• Medical terminology
• Legal and ethical considerations in healthcare

While certification is not typically required for physical therapy technicians, obtaining certification through organizations such as the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) can enhance job prospects.

Hemodialysis Technician vs Physical Therapy Technician: Career Outlook and Salary

Hemodialysis Technician

The demand for hemodialysis technicians is expected to grow in the coming years due to the aging population and the increasing prevalence of kidney disease. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of hemodialysis technicians is projected to grow 9 percent from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for hemodialysis technicians was $39,390 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

Physical Therapy Technician

The demand for physical therapy technicians is also expected to grow as the aging population continues to require rehabilitation services. According to the BLS, employment of physical therapy technicians is projected to grow 29 percent from 2020 to 2030, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for physical therapy technicians was $49,480 in May 2020, according to the BLS.

Final Thoughts

Both hemodialysis technicians and physical therapy technicians play important roles in the healthcare field and provide valuable support to patients. When choosing between these two careers, it's important to consider your interests, skills, and career goals. Hemodialysis technicians primarily focus on providing dialysis treatment to patients with kidney disease, while physical therapy technicians assist in the rehabilitation and treatment of musculoskeletal conditions. The education and training required for each profession differ slightly, with hemodialysis technicians needing certification and physical therapy technicians typically completing a vocational training program. Both professions offer a positive career outlook, with strong job growth expected in the coming years. Ultimately, the choice between becoming a hemodialysis technician or a physical therapy technician depends on your personal interests and career aspirations.

Dreambound provides programs in several locations. Get detailed information about these two vocations by checking:

• Hemodialysis Technician in Iowa
• Physical Therapy Technician in Iowa
• Hemodialysis Technician classes near you
• Physical Therapy Technician classes near you