RN ltc to dialysis nursing

anurseadvocate · Nov 6, 2008

Davita and Fresenius, to my understanding, do not necessarily require experience in dialysis. However, the new regulations state you must have dialysis experience to be in charge of a dialysis facility, therefore, you are trained and work under another RN, then let loose, so to speak. With the shortage of nurses, the dialysis companies are eager to train. What I am familiar with is that the dialysis technicians train the RNs on the floor to machines, etc. Dialysis is a life-saving treatment that can become life-threatening in a second's time, therefore, requires a true understanding of complications. Many facilities do not have an 'onsite' technician that can trouble shoot machine problems, again, imperative that staff are fully trained. I always remember that it is my license that is on the line. Call some of the facilities in your area and ask about working there, go an visit a few. You can also go to the websites of the dialysis companies. Dialysis nurses, if they are doing their job - overseeing delivery of care, supervising staff, etc., have a tough job. It is not easy and certainly demands adequate training. RenalRuth :nurse:

belle24 · Nov 6, 2008

Fresenius does offer training for nurses. It is a thorough training program. You can find information on the website about job opportunities. They have hired nurses right out of school. As nurseadvocate said, the rules require experience before the RN can be left alone as the only nurse in the facility.

I have been a nurse for 18 1/2 years. The first ten I spent "floating". I found my niche when I came to dialysis. It is not an easy job by any means but it can be a very rewarding career. I love it.