Registered Nurse Hemodialysis

Job Summary

A dialysis nurse is a registered nurse specialized in nephrology nursing. His/her work involves taking care of patients with impaired kidney function undergoing hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. The dialysis nurse must have an intricate knowledge of the mechanics of both types of dialysis; administer the dialysis from start to finish; discuss and explain concerns and answer relevant questions of the patient; and monitor and asses the patient’s vital signs and reaction to treatment

Essential Functions

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• The dialysis nurse is responsible for primary nursing duties for patients with kidney disease, which include routine assessments, determining risks, starting and monitoring dialysis, administering transfusions if necessary, recording chart data and information for the nephrologists or kidney doctors to assess the patient’s condition, as well as educating the patient about his or her treatment.
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• The nurse must also check on and ensure the function of the machine and other necessary equipment during dialysis, training other staff or family members in the proper usage of the dialysis machines and safety protocols for those who require the procedure in their own homes.
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Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Minimum Education/Certifications

Graduate of an accredited program in nursing.

Current Registered Nurse license to practice in the state of NJ.

Certifications required: BLS (American Heart Association)

Certification in Nephrology Nursing, Aphaeresis Nursing or both is highly encouraged

Maintains acquired knowledge and remains current in advancements in nephrology, in particular, relative to inpatient care (hospitalized patients requiring varied treatment modalities, not limited to Renal Replacement, Aphaeresis, and Ultra filtration services.

Minimum Work Experience

Minimum of one (1) year Medical Surgical Nursing experience preferred

Hemodialysis and ICU work experience preferred

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: Must be willing to work holidays, weekends and provide additional coverage as needed

Working Conditions

The dialysis nurse works mostly on their feet in hospitals. Work schedules include night-shifts, weekends and holidays, and may even be on-call at times. Risks may involve muscle strain and injuries, shocks from electrical equipment and exposure to compressed gas