How to get out of dialysis nursing?

[Marisette]

Can anyone give me some suggestions on how to get out of dialysis nursing. I have been a dialysis nurse most of my career. I don't want to do this anymore. I respect the hard work and value of dialysis nurses, but for me after 25 years of nursing, mostly dialysis, I think I want something with less stress.

However, I don't see a job market friendly to hiring someone who has performed dialysis nursing as long as I have. Of course, working with dialysis patients, I have been exposed to adults and some adolescents with numerous co-morbidities and health related issues, but my resumes still has years of dialysis nursing and employers focus on this. I've been a nurse for a long time, but I also started very young so I don't think age is the main issue with me finding other employment. I don't really want to take on a part time job to add experience, because my dialysis job is stressful enough and I have to take call on weekends. But still, I'm willing to consider any suggestions you think may help me get out of dialysis nursing. I would prefer to work in an outpatient area and this is what I have been applying for but so far no luck. I'm willing to take a pay cut or work part time. I have worked all areas in dialysis nursing and do not wish to change positions within dialysis.

[ausrnurse]

I moved from dialysis to intensive care without much issue. I think my transition was actually easier than a lot of the med-surg nurses. When you have been working at a satellite unit with 4 crashing patients and 2 nurses, 1 crashing patient, 4 nurses and a bunch of doctors is easy!

[fragino]

It sounds like you work in acutes since you take weekend calls. Try working in a chronic facility. The hours may be more predictable although they generally work Monday-Saturday.

I went from tele to chronic dialysis. I am way less stressed. For now anyway.

[Redsox07]

I've been in chronic hemo nursing for 4 years. I think like anything, if you have a great crew your job is fun and seems easy. If you are working with people who don't (or won't get along) or with poor management it makes the job very difficult.

[rogue_maverick]

I'm now planning my exit from dialysis nursing (or perhaps clinical setting at the least). I'm currently working on my MBA (multi-sector healthcare) and after I get my degree, I will bid goodbye to my comfort zone for half a decade. Time for a fresh start and new challenges. I wonder how it feels to be your own boss. :)

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

we would beg for an ICU nurse with dialysis background. Beleive me, we would train you to do the rest.