Day to day tasks of dialysis nurse

[2ndchance85]

Hi All!

I am currently working as a nurse in a Subacute care facility (long term and short term) and although I like some things about it I find the nurse to"resident" ratio is too much for me to handle, I never finish on time and constantly feel rushed. Because of this I've been considering other options such as a Home care nurse or something like Dialysis.

Could any dialysis nurses tell me their day to day work flow? Nurse to patient ratio? Likes and dislikes? Any feedback is welcome!

Thanks nursing peeps!

[Hoosier_RN, MSN]

ratios vary by geographic location, sometimes the nurse is in a pod of 4-6 (or more patients) along with assessing for other pods. You will be rushed at times, especially changeovers. I love it because of the fast pace. Patients can decompensate and crash quickly, or you can have a totally uneventful day. But you will always be moving! I suggest interviewing and shadowing at a clinic to see if you think it could be your cup of tea. Request to shadow during changeover so that you see the reality of what goes on.

Home care is slow, unless there is a change or health event. I'm in no way saying it's boring, it's just usually a slower animal

[Zeek, LPN]

I agree! I love dialysis for the fast pace and the fact that you can use all your assessment skills. We catch things like DVT's, pericardial friction rubs and pneumonia etc. Yes, you'll be rushed sometimes, but you get to have close relationships with your patients as well. There is much to like in this specialty. I think shadowing is a great idea!!