Fact
If you’re a nurse in a rut and looking for a change, then read on. Moving into a specialty like dialysis nursing may be just what you need to help you get your career back on track.
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The Pros and Cons
What are the pros and cons? That depends on your definition for each, and what you’re looking for in your career.
Because dialysis nurses can spend a lot of time with their patients, if you enjoy knowing your patients, and want a predictable schedule, then a clinic setting is a pro. Patients see their nurses on a regular basis, usually three times a week. Often it’s the same day, the same time, and the same nurse.
If you’re up for a challenge and willing to sleep with your phone, the acute dialysis unit is a good option. Patients are sicker and emergencies can be more frequent. Dialysis nurses usually have years of prior dialysis experience, and some have critical care backgrounds as well.
And then there’s provising dialysis to patients in their home. It’s a pro if you enjoy autonomy. The hidden con is that the cozy setting with brewing coffee is still hemodialysis.
Diversity and Expertise
Dialysis nurses can work in a variety of settings, and requires extensive expertise. Since these patients are often medically unstable, or can become so in a heartbeat, dialysis nurses (aka renal or nephrology nurses) need a solid foundation in both nursing and dialysis knowledge. They need to be able to think critically and work rapidly in a crisis.Of interest, some cruise ship companies offer dialysis to stable traveling patients.
