LTC 2 Dialysis

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Ok, can someone with only LTC experience make it in dialysis?? I believe I have good assessment skills, but I would really have to brush up on everything renal.

I know many places offer training, but would they even look at someone like me without acute skills?

Thanks!

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

I think so - why don't you try it? I am an advanced practice nurse in a dialysis unit and we hire new grads as well as those w/o acute experience. Good luck.

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Although most companies and hospitals prefer prior acute care (even ICU - they don't ask for much ;)) experience, and may post that in their ads, don't be fooled by that. They will hire nurses from other settings, often even new grads. They all have comprehensive training programs.

Good assessment skills are a definite plus; you have also given tons of meds and should be very familiar with diabetic pts' needs (many of dialysis pts are also diabetics). This should impress a hiring manager.

Everything else - the technical training, plus renal pathophysiology - should be taught by the employer. A technical aptitude is undoubtedly a plus, but don't worry, I don't have it and I made it ;)

Good luck!

DeLana :)

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