The kidneys are dealt with by the branch of internal medicine known as nephrology. Individuals seeking a rewarding career in the medical field can choose from a variety of nephrology positions. A registered nurse who specializes in caring for patients with kidney disease, dialysis, or who have had a kidney transplant is one of the most popular positions in nephrology. Dialysis technician, dialysis nurse, home therapy nurse, clinical nurse, and registered nurse under a renal specialist, endocrinologist, oncologist, or urologist are some of the other jobs available to nephrology specialists.
Positions in nephrology are available in a variety of medical settings. Nephrology nurses assist surgeons, nephrologists, endocrinologists, and urologists in hospitals. Dialysis centers also provide a steady stream of nephrology jobs for qualified nurses. Nurses who specialize in nephrology can work in dialysis centers in hospitals, outpatient facilities, or in home dialysis programs. In the case of dialysis, a nephrology nurse is in charge of the patient’s care during the procedure.
Nurses can also work in nephrology as assistants to physicians who specialize in the field. Nurses working in nephrology may also require specialized training. Physician assistants and renal specialists must be familiar with the functions of the kidneys as well as the most commonly prescribed medications for kidney disease. Nurses who work in nephrology may also assist surgeons with kidney transplants, and these nurses must have surgical knowledge and training.
Because the kidneys perform so many different functions in the body, nephrology jobs can be found in a variety of medical fields. Many hospitals and private practices have open urology and endocrinology positions for registered nurses trained in nephrology. If the patient has a disease that attacks the nerves in or around the kidneys, nephrology nurses may be needed for neurology positions. Nurses with experience in renal oncology can work with patients who have cancer in or around their kidneys.
Those interested in a career in nephrology should first become registered nurses and then seek training in the care of patients with kidney disease. Nurses who work in nephrology must be familiar with the special needs of patients who are on dialysis, have had a kidney transplant, or are under the care of a kidney specialist. Nurses who work as dialysis technicians in nephrology must be trained in hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and transplant procedures. Professional nephrology training can prepare nurses for positions in hospitals, dialysis centers, and outpatient facilities.