In a hospital, urology clinic, or private doctor’s office, a urology nurse looks after patients with urinary tract problems. A nurse assesses symptoms initially, assists doctors with diagnostic and treatment procedures, and provides expert patient education and counseling. Patients with urinary tract infections, kidney stones, cancers, prostatitis, and a variety of other conditions are seen professionals. Many urology nurses are trained to provide checkups and treatment for common conditions without the need to consult with a doctor first.
When a patient is referred to a urology specialist for urinary tract care, the urology nurse is usually the first person they meet with. The nurse takes vital signs, notes symptom information, and conducts a basic physical examination. He or she informs a urologist of the findings and assists in determining the most appropriate tests or medications to administer. The nurse explains why certain tests are performed and what the results mean to the patient. Before leaving the urology center, the nurse emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper hygiene and adhering to the doctor’s orders in order to avoid future issues.
While many urology nurses are capable of caring for a wide range of patients, some choose to specialize in a specific population, such as women or the elderly. A pediatric urology nurse is responsible for diagnosing and treating patients under the age of 18, which necessitates specialized knowledge and a certain personality type. Viruses, bacteria, and other abnormalities affect children’s developing urinary and reproductive tracts in different ways, so a nurse must be careful to determine the best course of action. A pediatric urology nurse must also be able to effectively communicate with children in order to help them understand their conditions and remain calm in the examination room.
To become a urology nurse, a person must first obtain an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, then pass an exam to earn registered nurse credentials, and gain experience in a general nursing position. Before entering the specialty, some regions require prospective urology nurses to attend continuing education classes and pass additional exams. Nurses can work in clinics, private practices, and general hospitals if they have the necessary experience and credentials.
Many urology nurses choose to pursue master’s degrees in order to advance their careers as nurse practitioners or clinical nursing specialists. A nurse with a master’s degree can usually perform many of the same diagnostic and treatment procedures as urologists, including writing prescriptions for medications. An experienced nurse may also choose to work in hospital administration, where he or she can contribute to the development of new policies and treatment strategies for urology patients.