Dialysis nurses are experts in all types of dialysis, including hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis

Regardless of the type of dialysis, these nurses carefully monitor the patient’s condition before, during and after the procedure and consult with physicians and technicians as needed.

Dialysis nurses work closely with professionals from many disciplines, including physicians, dietitians, social workers and technicians.

Dialysis nurses work in many settings, including:

Hospitals
Outpatient treatment centers
Transplant programs
Home health care agencies
Hospice and palliative care services
Nursing homes and long-term care facilities

Dialysis nurses who hold a master’s degree or doctorate often pursue certification as advanced practice nurses. This allows them to serve as primary care providers of people with kidney disease.

Experienced dialysis nurses often specialize in the care of certain populations such as pediatric, adult or elderly patients.

Some experienced dialysis nurses transition into nephrology case management.