CHBT study guide
CHBT · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The Certified Hemodialysis Biofeedback Therapist (CHBT) credential is aimed at clinicians who combine two skill sets: a working command of the hemodialysis treatment environment and the ability to deliver biofeedback and relaxation training to patients during or around dialysis sessions. Candidates are typically nurses, dialysis technicians, and allied practitioners who want to help patients manage treatment-related distress, discomfort, and physiological arousal using structured psychophysiological techniques. The CHBT study guide has 6 sections and about 1,585 words.
01Hemodialysis Fundamentals and Renal Physiology
Understand the twin jobs of dialysis - solute clearance by diffusion and fluid removal by ultrafiltration - and the physiology that makes them safe. Know the components of the extracorporeal circuit (access, blood pump, dialyzer, dialysate delivery, air detector, venous alarm), the difference between diffusion (concentration gradient), convection (solvent drag with transmembrane pressure), and osmosis.
301 words, about 2 min02Biofeedback Principles and Psychophysiology
Biofeedback is a learning process: a physiological signal is transduced, amplified, displayed, and fed back so the patient can gain voluntary control. Know the operant conditioning basis, the role of immediate and accurate feedback, and the concept of self-regulation.
272 words, about 1 min03Biofeedback Modalities and Instrumentation
Know the major modalities: electromyography, electrodermal (skin conductance), thermal, respiratory, heart rate variability, and electroencephalographic neurofeedback. For each, know the physiological source, typical sensor placement, and what the reading represents.
268 words, about 1 min04Application of Biofeedback During Hemodialysis Sessions
Delivering biofeedback during hemodialysis requires planning around a four-hour treatment, an immobile patient, and a busy unit. Know how to select candidates, set realistic goals, and sequence sessions: baseline assessment, short practice blocks, and review.
255 words, about 1 min05Patient Assessment, Symptom Management, and Relaxation Training
Know how to assess baseline arousal, symptom burden, anxiety, sleep, pain, and adherence. Use validated self-report measures and physiological baselines together.
249 words, about 1 min06Professional Practice, Safety, and Ethical Considerations
Know your scope of practice, the limits of your role within the dialysis team, and when to refer. Understand informed consent, privacy protections, and documentation standards.
240 words, about 1 min