We have to have in depth knowledge of dialysis! Ex:1)the effects of dialysis on the body 2) the "normal" abnormal lab values of these patients 3) we dialyze patients in ICU who are already in very serious condition BEFORE we put them on the "machine" and it definitely takes expertise to "run" these patients.------------- There is so much to know to actually be a dialysis nurse----over and above the things we have already learned in nursing school. It seems to me, however, that lots of the time the pay is even less than a floor nurse---I have done both----Both jobs are extremely difficult and both jobs are equally important----I am not putting down the "floor nurse"--- I just want to know why it is difficult for us to be paid as well.------------------I also feel that being a dialysis nurse is a specialty------other specialty nursing offers a slight raise in pay, but not dialysis. As an acute dialysis nurse in my part of the country,,,,,,I have to accept a cut in pay,,,, so now I have went back to Med-Surg,,,,,,,,,because I refuse to accept the unfair cuts in pay.....I love acute dialysis nursing,,,,,especially in ICU,,,,but I choose not to do it,,,,,,,,because I know we deserve at least the same as other specialty nursing. I would appreciate feedback on this subject. I cannot be the only person who has noticed this. Thanks-------- E-mail me at: [email protected]
