[JillRNColorado]

Since I am a new grad and considering a job in the field...I wondered if anyone might tell me what skills are commonly used in Dialyisis (Chronic setting). For example, it is obvious assessments are done routinely but how about starting IV's, SUB Q's, foleys etc.... Please share what skills you use on a day to day basis because I am afraid I will lose mine if I don't frequently use them in this envirnment. Please anyone??
Thanks in advance.
Jill

[jnette]

Obviously, your assessment skills are paramount. As are critical thinking skills as realted to fluids and electrolytes. Certainly cannulating skills, the occasional subQ injections, Tuberculine PPD, some outpatient clinincs still hang blood. CHF knowlege is a biggie since your dealing with great potential for fluid overload, then of course the drops in bloodpressures.

Skills pertaining to central lines, dressing changes, blood draws.... those are just some for starters. I'm sure others will add to the list.

[DeLana_RN]

Hi,

pp has summarized the clinical skills in the outpatient/clinic setting it very well. In acutes/hospital dialysis, we may do much more, including Foleys, NGTs (those of us who dare, LOL), and other "hospital" nursing procedures.

I would just like to add that for various reasons (see several previous posts on the subject) most experienced dialysis nurses do not recommend that new grads enter the specialty. The reasons are many, including a lack of adequate orientation for someone with no previous clinical experience, and the autonomy a dialysis RN can have (which means, you may not have any other nurse(s) to consult with when a pt complication arises). It can be done, and some companies will hire new grads, but you will be at a great disadvantage if you don't have some general nursing experience - (at least) one year of med/surg or critical care would be best.

Best of luck to you!

DeLana