Will I like dialysis?

[KiddieMom]

I am in a strange predicament. I have job I love as a PACU nurse but they will not hire me as part time because they don't want to pay medical benefits. However, I am being worked 30-40 hours per week per diem. I am trying to find another job which is tough these days. I was offered a job at a dialysis clinic by a super lady. I was excited at the benefits and what the place has to offer. The problem? When she took me for a tour, I saw a very depressing place with a lot of intimidating equipment. She says it costs about $80,000 to train someone. They also have call and an acute program that you must go to a hospital I do not like much. I would love to work for her, but am afraid I might be wasting their money. It seems so.....depressing and scary. I am used to critical care, and now PACU. I just don't know what to do. Any advice?

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Dialysis nursing is VERY specialized - you will use your critical care experience to accurately assess these pts as they can change condition quickly. It IS intimidating as far as the equipment goes, but doable. Most dialysis units (the big names Fresenius, Davita) offer a 6 month training schedule, so you won't just walk in and be left to fend for yourself. Good luck....maybe shadow an RN first??

[sunfirebsn]

The dialysis machines can be very intimidating at first, it just takes time to learn them as with anything. It takes about 6 -12 months to feel comfortable in dialysis which is definitely true! There is a lot of new information that just takes time to learn and put everything together. Any good company should have a training program to make you feel competent. I would not think they would send you into a hospital (acute treatments) until you have a good amount of experience. A dialysis clinic in my opinion is A LOT better than working at a hospital (Daylight (no shifts), Sundays off, you get to know the patients, not as stressful..etc). Having critical care experience is a plus for dialysis nursing! I don't know why that person would tell you how much it costs to train a person, that is not your concern (that sounds quite extravagant also). Shadowing sounds like a good idea as the previous replier said. Good luck whatever you decide to do!