Interview tomorrow, what do I need to know

[Matthew_RN]

Thanks for help--

I have an interview tomorrow on a dialysis unit as a staff RN. I have been away from the bedside, but not nursing, for the past 3 years. I have an ICU background and commonly did SCUF dialysis when I worked in the MICU. So, I am not totally new to this but, it's been 3 years.

I know the typical interview question like why and strong/ weak etc... What I need to know is what type of dialysis questions to expect on this interview?

Thanks for your help,

Matt

[MJB2010]

You should know a little about the dialysis patients I think. Dialysis is a huge commitment, 3 days a week. They have restricted diets & fluid restrictions, which makes it hard to stick to. There are a lot of psych issues and noncompliance. The two biggest causes of renal failure are diabetes and hypertenison. So I think knowing how hard it is for the patients to adjust their lifestyle around this, it really is their whole life. We mainly give just a few medications- zemplar, epogen, and venofer. I think I would have a difficult time if I had to go through what they do, sitting still for that long 3 xs a week and having to stick to such a restricted diet, it is definately hard.

Have you heard about the new "bundle" ? There are new restrictions as of Jan on what medicare/medicare will pay for with dialysis treatments, this is going to be a huge loss in profist for most clinics with so much less reimbursement.

During dialysis patients can code, so your critical care experience will be helpful with that. There is a lot of autonomy as a nurse, but you must work as a team with the techs. If you are someone that has a good outlook positive attitude, that is helpful. A lot of the patients have issues with depression, so they need someone upbeat and positive since you spend so much time with them. You really do get to know your patients well, which is great. You get to know their normals for vitals etc. You know when they aren't well or themselves.

Good luck!

[madwife2002, BSN, RN]

How did you do in your interview?

[Matthew_RN]

I think it went well. It was for an acute unit which has a 4 month training peroid. Turns out I know some people working there so I think that will help. He told me the position will not be filled for 2 weeks so its a waiting game now.

[clyRN]

So, anything else you can offer to us? I also have an interview on the 1st for a Fresenius dialysis clinic in my area. I am a new graduate so all of this is very over whelming to me! Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you :)

[KellyP78]

I'm in the same boat! New graduate with an interview at DaVita for acute dialysis. I'm eager to get a job but feeling anxious about dialysis and I've read some horror stories on here about the employer and the specialty itself. Any advice?

[Matthew_RN]

After sending a follow up letter to the director thanking him for his time and outlining what I bring to the table he called me last night and said he filled the position. He found someone with over 10 years of dialysis experience. However, he had another position open up and he was going to go forward with me. He said to expect the offer letter today or Tuesday at the latest.

Good thing I sent the follow up letter

[Tish88]

After sending a follow up letter to the director thanking him for his time and outlining what I bring to the table he called me last night and said he filled the position. He found someone with over 10 years of dialysis experience. However, he had another position open up and he was going to go forward with me. He said to expect the offer letter today or Tuesday at the latest.

Good thing I sent the follow up letter

Did you happen to ask him about the turn over rate??? I would want to know that information before I would accept a position there!