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I definitely know how you feel. It will get easier/better. I always encourage new nurses/ techs to give it at least one year before quitting. Dialysis is, in my opinion, challenging and rewarding at the same time. I couldn't see myself in any other field [emoji57]

I've been in dialysis for 11 years. It took me almost 2 years to say, "I might like this." So, definitely give it some time. You will find your way of doing things. But, if I had any advice to give, what works for me is to prepare as early as possible. Sometimes, starting my day 15mins early helps me stay ahead of the game. Ask your FA if it's okay to clock in a little earlier until you get the swing of things..

I think it's something the manager decides. It's usually 4-5 hours. That way you can get an idea for how a day in dialysis goes. I have seen some people get hired the same day they shadow, others weeks later. Make sure you know what questions to ask such as nurse/pt ratio, hours, schedule, etc.

Basically, you follow a nurse for a few hours to see what a day in dialysis is like. This lets you see if it is something you would really like to do. Also, it allows the teammates to talk with you and decide if you would be a good fit for the clinic. At my clinic, my FA would always ask our opinion prior to hiring someone. After all, you will be part of their team.

I have trained many pct's and nurses. Please don't hesitate to ask your preceptor any and all questions. No question is a stupid question. They are getting paid to precept you. It is much better to ask than to guess. We all have been in your shoes and had to learn. Also the internet has a wealth of information, however, you always want to follow policy and procedures for your facility.

I beg to differ. i have worked chronics for over 10 years. there are days, just as in the hospital, that you may end up staying later to "catch up" i think prioritizing and time management play a big part in how your day goes. also, it depends on other factors in the clinic, such as staff call ins, reports, pt no shows/ reschedules, unexpected events, etc... no 2 days are alike, some longer than others...

Hi!! have you loooked into specific companies that offer diaylsis while aboard. for instance, theres dialysisatsea.com. we have had several pts that have utilized this service and they love it. there are several more if you goggle them. hope this helps

Thanks for the advice so far. Any more will be greatly appreciated

Definately ask how many stations are in the clinic your're applying for. ask whats the patient to nurse ratio. also, what's the pct to patient ratio. some states don't have limitations and you may be the only nurse with 14-16 patients. there are mot many "laidback" opportunities working in a chronic dialysis unit. you are constantly busy. if you are the only nurse on the floor, you cannot leave the building. many days it may be near impossible to get a lunch break. don't get me wrong, i've been a dialysis nurse for 10+ years and i love it. just make sure your're switching jobs for the right reason

Hi. i'm currently working chronics and have done so for the last 10 years. i'm now considering switching to acutes. has anyone done this? was it a wise move or something you regret doing?? any advice will be greatly appreciated