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Your Story…
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 This Is Where I’m Meant to Be
When I first entered the healthcare field, I wasn’t entirely sure which specialty would become my calling. I just knew I wanted to help people. I started out as a CNA at the hospital, where I got a general sense of patient care. But one day, I helped transport a patient to dialysis, and something about that experience stayed with me. I was drawn to the idea of making a difference, not just once, but in a way that truly impacted someone’s life over time. I was moved by the quiet strength it takes for them to show up, and the hospital and clinics to guide them through it.
I decided to pursue certification as a dialysis technician. The first time I walked into a dialysis center, I was overwhelmed by the machines, the alarms, and the quiet hum of people just waiting. But what struck me the most wasn’t the technology- it was the strength of the patients. Some were tired. Some barely spoke. Yet they showed up, three times a week, every week, just to stay alive.
A patient once told me, “You’re the reason I don’t dread dialysis anymore. Every day you come in with your bubbly personality, your smile, and your jokes, it makes it feel less like a treatment.” That moment stuck with me. Becoming a certified dialysis technician wasn’t just about learning the machines or understanding procedures. It was a promise to show up with not just a skill, but with heart. It’s about noticing when a patient is a little more tired than usual, when they need someone to listen, not just check vitals. It’s about heart.
There are tough days- days when it feels heavy. But even on those days, I remind myself why I chose this path: to be a part of someone’s fight, to offer comfort, connection, and care. I may not wear a white coat, but I’m part of a team that gives people more time, more birthdays, more memories with their families. Dialysis chose me as much as I chose it. Every beep, every smile, every patient who says “thank you” makes me feel like this is where I’m meant to be.
-Eliza Williams, CCHT
Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician
What’s Your Story? Share it with NNCC!
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Do you have a story about your career path and experiences as a nephrology nurse or dialysis technician? Whether it's a personal milestone, a professional breakthrough, or a moment that reminded you why you chose this field or why you took the next step to get certified, we’d love for you to share it.
Your journey could be the next to inspire others and be featured in the NNCC Electronic News!
Submit your story here: kim.carbonaro@nncc-exam.org.
Let your voice be heard and your story celebrated!
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Spring 2025 Nephrology Conferences
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What a fantastic Spring conference season! We loved connecting with so many outstanding nephrology nurses and dialysis technicians. Conferences are not only a great way to expand your knowledge and earn contact hours—they’re also a powerful opportunity to network and grow professionally.
If you haven’t attended a nephrology conference yet, consider adding one to your future plans.
We hope to see you at the next national event!
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Continuing Competence: A Vital Part of Your Career Path
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Continuing competence is essential for nephrology nurses and dialysis technicians. It reflects your ongoing ability to apply the knowledge, skills, and judgment required to provide safe, ethical, and high-quality care.
To maintain your NNCC certification and stay up to date in the ever-evolving field of nephrology, continuing education is required. It helps you refresh your current knowledge, build new skills, and keep pace with innovations across the full spectrum of nephrology practice.
At NNCC, we’re committed to supporting your professional journey. Need help finding online continuing education opportunities to meet your certification or recertification requirements? Contact the NNCC National Office at nncc@nncc-exam.org—we’re happy to assist you!
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“What does certification mean to you?”
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We asked this question to newly certified nephrology nurses—and we loved this response:
Certification, to me, is a reflection of my credibility and commitment to the quality of care I provide. It demonstrates that I am dedicated to advancing my knowledge and expertise in nephrology nursing. Earning this certification is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to my ongoing dedication to my profession and to delivering the highest standard of care to my patients.
We couldn’t agree more! NNCC certification is more than a credential—it’s a symbol of excellence, growth, and patient-centered care.
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Quality Improvement Award Deadline – Extended to August 15
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 The Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission® (NNCC®) has developed this award to recognize an individual or organization participating in a quality improvement project that promotes optimal patient outcomes in nephrology. At least one of the individuals submitting the application must be currently certified by NNCC.
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NNCCs Water for Dialysis Program: What's in your Water?
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NNCC’s Water for Dialysis Program, What’s in your Water? is a learning activity provided by NNCC to help participants obtain knowledge and competency concerning water treatment for dialysis. Upon completion of this program, participants will be able to:
• Identify the components of the dialysis water system including their purposes, monitoring requirements, and patient safety considerations.
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• Explain how water-related clinical problems occur, are identified, and can be prevented.
• Discuss the elements of the CMS water survey that ensure compliance with safety.
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Great News: Upon completion, a certificate will be provided awarding a four-contact hour credit to be used towards NNCC certification or recertification continuing education requirements.
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Free Practice Exam! Approved CCHT-A Test-Takers!
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Experienced Dialysis Technicians, NNCC is now offering a free online practice exam when you are approved to take the CCHT-A certification examination. You now have one more reason to take the next step in the advancement of your career goals!
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FREE Online CNN-NP Practice Exam
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NNCC Board of Commissioners and the Advanced Practice Examination Board have examined some of the roadblocks for nephrology nurse practitioners taking the CNN-NP certification examination. A lack of resources and preparation materials seem to be a large factor. NNCC will now offer a free online CNN-NP practice examination to nephrology nurse practitioners who have been approved to take the CNN-NP examination. Upon approval for testing, nephrology nurse practitioners will receive a link to take the online practice exam. This, in addition to the free CNN-NP Certification Preparation Guide, will have you well on your way to preparing for the exam!
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UPCOMING EVENTS: FALL 2025
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NNCC will be exhibiting at the following conference this Fall. We hope to see you there!
Orlando, FL
September 16 – 19, 2025
Charlotte, NC
September 25 - 28, 2025
Atlanta, GA
October 8 - 10, 2025
Houston, TX
November 5 - 9, 2025
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Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission
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