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We hope you had a wonderful time celebrating National Dialysis Technician Recognition Week!
Even though the week has wrapped up, our appreciation for certified dialysis technicians never ends. Your hard work, skill, and compassion shine every single day — and it’s inspiring to see the impact you make on patients and teams alike.
We loved seeing some of your celebration photos and stories shared on NNCC’s Facebook page! Thank you for all that you do to make a difference — not just during one special week, but all year long.
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Your Story...
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 A journey of healing, resilience, and finding purpose in giving back.
My kidney journey is not just personal; it's a story of profound transformation and resilience.
From 2019 to 2023, I was a patient at DaVita Kidney Care, navigating the challenging landscape of dialysis. I experienced the physical exhaustion, emotional turmoil, and moments when hope felt elusive. Yet, what sustained me through this journey was not just the treatment itself, but the incredible people around me.
The hemodialysis technicians had a profound impact on my experience, but it was also the nurses, dietitians, and social workers at my clinic who made a lasting difference. Their kindness, patience, and genuine compassion reminded me that I was more than just a diagnosis. They planted seeds of hope and inspiration for my future.
In November 2023, I received a cadaver kidney transplant. A defining moment that filled me with gratitude and a new perspective on life. Just eight months later, I made a pivotal decision: I joined a hemodialysis clinic, this time as a teammate rather than a patient.
In less than a year, I have grown beyond my expectations. With the invaluable support of my colleagues, who shared resources and encouraged me, I earned my CCHT certification. I am excited to share that I am now preparing for my CCHT-A test within the next three years. Additionally, I have taken on the role of a preceptor, honed my skills as an expert cannulator, and completed my Modality Lead course, all while continuing to support new teammates and patients.
Every role I have embraced has deepened my sense of purpose. I vividly remember the feelings of anxiety and exhaustion while sitting in that dialysis chair, and the comfort that came from a kind word or gentle touch. That’s the kind of caregiver I strive to be each day.
My aspiration now is to continue growing within my clinic—not only as a clinician but also as an educator. I aim to share my journey and knowledge, helping kidney patients enjoy more time with their loved ones. I want to inspire others to lead with empathy, excellence, and a patient-first mindset, uplifting our teams so they can, in turn, uplift our patients.
This journey has taught me that healing is not merely an endpoint; it’s a beginning. I’m no longer just surviving; I’m building, growing, and giving back. I hope my story serves as a reminder that even in the toughest times, we can rise and help others rise alongside us. Being a part of the NNCC and earning the title of Certified Hemodialysis Technician has been so rewarding for me, and I know it will be for you.
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What’s Your Story? Share it with NNCC!
Do you have a story about your career path and experiences as a nephrology/dialysis nurse, nephrology nurse practitioner, 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. Let your voice be heard and your story celebrated!
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Thank you, NNCC Advanced Practice Exam Board and
Test Committee!
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NNCC extends our sincere appreciation to our Advanced Practice Exam Board and Test Committee members, who met in Portland, OR, this month to continue their important work in ensuring the CNN-NP certification credential remains current, relevant, and reflective of the highest standards in nephrology practice.
Thank 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 this response stood out:
“Earning my Certified Nephrology Nurse (CNN) credential represents a milestone of both personal and professional growth. It validates my commitment to excellence in nephrology nursing and deepens my responsibility to lead by example. The process reminded me why I chose this specialty — to advocate for patients with complex kidney disease, support their journey through education and empathy, and empower my team to provide the highest standard of care. This certification isn’t just a title; it’s a reflection of dedication, resilience, and a genuine passion for improving kidney health outcomes.”
This quote captures exactly what the CNN credential represents — dedication, compassion, and leadership in nephrology nursing. Congratulations on this incredible achievement, and thank you for inspiring your peers to pursue excellence in kidney care!
Certification is more than a credential—it’s a career milestone and a symbol of dedication to your specialty.
Take the next step in your professional journey. Certification isn’t just a title—it’s a transformative step toward becoming the best version of yourself. Whether you’re just starting or have years of experience, becoming certified demonstrates your expertise and commitment to excellence in nephrology care.
At NNCC, we’re here to support you every step of the way, whether you are a nurse practitioner, RN, or dialysis technician —with resources, guidance, and recognition designed to help you succeed. Your knowledge, your passion, and your care already make a difference. Certification helps you elevate that even further. You’ve got what it takes—and NNCC is here to help you prove it. Learn more at www.nncc-exam.org/certification. Do you have questions about certification? Contact us!
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Important Notice Regarding Online Recertification Applications
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Applicants are encouraged to begin their applications at any time; however, please note that NNCC will be updating its website in the coming months. If you currently have an application in draft form, it must be completed and submitted by December 15, as any draft applications remaining after this date will be deleted during the system update.
Following the update, certificants will be able to begin the online recertification by continuing education application at their convenience and add continuing education credits as they are earned. Continuing education activities may be completed throughout the certification period, and the recertification application may be submitted up to six months prior to the certification expiration date.
Please be sure to keep copies of your contact hour certificates for your records and in case they are requested during the review process.
Check out the Recertification Timeline and make sure NNCC has your current contact information—so you never miss a helpful reminder. Staying on track for recertification has never been easier!
Need Help?
Remember, if you are NNCC certified, you already have an account. If you need assistance logging in or have any questions about recertification, we’re here to help.
Contact us and we’ll guide you through the process.
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Fee Change Notice
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NNCC has worked diligently to keep certification and recertification application fees stable over the years. However, please note that a few fees will be updated effective January 1, 2026:
- Incomplete Application Fee: $50.00
- Expedited Review Fee: $75.00
- Examination Permit Extension Fee: $120.00
- Returned/Canceled Payment Fee: $50.00
To help you avoid these additional fees, NNCC offers the following tips:
- Carefully review the application checklist in the application booklet before submitting to ensure your application is complete.
- Submit early—applications may be submitted up to six months prior to your certification expiration date.
- Maintain available funds to ensure smooth payment processing.
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Attention Nephrology Advanced Practice Providers
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The National Kidney Foundation Council of Advanced Practice Providers (NKF CAPP) is once again launching the biennial CAPP Workforce Insights Survey, formerly known as the CAPP Salary Survey.
This survey is open to all nephrology advanced practice providers. Please share with your APP colleagues. The survey will remain open until Sunday, November 1, 2025.
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NNCC Career Mobility Scholarships & Grants
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The Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission® (NNCC®) offers of career mobility scholarships annually. Don't miss your opportunity to apply!
Clinical/Technical Career Mobility Scholarship – Deadline November 30
NNCC awards five (5) $3000.00 scholarships to CCHT, CCHT-A and CD-LPN/LVN certified individuals who are advancing their education in the field of health/sciences.
Advanced Practice Nurse Career Mobility Scholarship – Deadline November 30
NNCC awards a $5000.00 career mobility scholarship to CNN-NP certified individuals who are advancing their education in a doctoral program (DNP or PhD).
Nurse Career Mobility Scholarship funding – Deadline November 15
NNCC has established funding for three (3) $3,000.00 career mobility scholarships to NNCC certificant members of ANNA in pursuit of either a BSN or advanced degree in nursing.
Nephrology Nurse and Technician Career Mobility Scholarship funding – Deadline May 1
NNCC has established funding for three (3) $3,000.00 career mobility scholarships for CCHT and CCHT-A certified, and three (3) $3,000.00 career mobility scholarships to CNN or CDN certified members of the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) to support furthering education in pursuit of a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in nephrology nursing or technician fields.
Barbara Prowant Research Grant – Deadline November 15
The NNCC has established this $5,000.00 nursing research grant to honor and recognize Barbara F. Prowant’s tremendous contributions to nephrology nursing and certification within the specialty. Her work improved the lives of patients everywhere. This research grant is established to promote nursing research, particularly in nephrology.
Research: Funding for pilot studies and partial funding for research projects, thesis, or dissertations.
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NNCC Advocacy Award – Deadline January 1, 2026
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Become the 2025 Advocacy Award Winners!
Each year, NNCC gives the Advocacy Award to one unit for outstanding performance in advancing nephrology nursing certification and patient care. Applications are reviewed by the NNCC Board of Commissioners, which looks for programs and activities that support certification. The Commissioners also consider the impact the facility has on the community. The winning unit receives an engraved plaque and a check for $1,000.
Find out more and apply here.
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Dialysis Nurses
Take the NNCC October Pop Quiz
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OCTOBER QUESTION! Here is another question of the month! “NNCC’s Question of the Month” helps you test your knowledge. This month, we pose this question for the dialysis nurses (CDN): A preceptor is orienting a newly licensed RN to the hemodialysis setting. The new RN asks, “How will I know which tasks can be delegated to a dialysis technician?” Which of the following responses by the preceptor would be correct?
Take the quiz to see the list of options, choose the correct answer, and find the rationale and reference information.
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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.
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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!
Houston, TX
November 5 - 9, 2025
Booth #1241
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CNN®, CDN®, CNN-NP®, CCHT®, and CCHT-A® are registered certification marks of the Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC®).
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Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission
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