Dialysis Nurse Career in Brief
Dialysis nurses administer treatment for kidney disease, including hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Dialysis essentially replicates the patient's kidney functions, regulating blood and cleaning out extra water, salt, and waste from the patient's body. In addition to carrying out dialysis, these specialized nurses:
Primary Responsibilities
- Educate patients and families about kidney disease and how to treat it
- Record patients' medical information
- Assess patients prior to treatment
- Monitor patients for any adverse dialysis reactions
- Manage fluid and electrolyte balance
- Communicate this information to doctors, in case the patient needs a treatment change
Career Traits
- Skills in operating healthcare machinery (specifically, a dialysis machine)
- Good communication skills
- Patience
- Attention to detail
Where do Dialysis Nurses Work?
Dialysis nurses work in a few different settings, including dialysis clinics, hospitals, and outpatient clinics. Many dialysis nurses travel to patients' homes to administer treatment there, particularly in rural areas where patients may not have regular access to hospitals or clinics. Acute dialysis nurses work in ICU and other chronic care settings.
Dialysis Clinic Meet with patients regularly throughout the week, offering hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis treatments and monitoring patients' reactions
Acute Care or ICU Departments Administer emergency dialysis or other kidney treatments to people experiencing extreme kidney failure
Patients' Homes Take and set up equipment in patients' homes, administer dialysis treatments, record patients vitals, communicate patients' conditions with the hospital or healthcare facility
Why Become a Dialysis Nurse?
As with any job, working as a dialysis nurse has its pros and cons. While it is a fulfilling career for many, be sure to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages before you enter the field.
Advantages to Becoming a Dialysis Nurse
Disadvantages to Becoming a Dialysis Nurse
How to Become a Dialysis Nurse
Learn More About How To Become a Dialysis Nurse
How Much Do Dialysis Nurses Make?
Dialysis nurse salaries vary, depending on factors such as experience and degree level. On average, a dialysis nurse's salary stands at about $82,834, according to PayScale data. Entry-level nurses in the field earn an annual salary of $67,175, while late-career dialysis nurses earn about $88,875, on average.
Along with other registered nurses, the number of dialysis nursing jobs could increase by 5% from 2024-2034, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That projected growth is faster than the average for all occupations.
Specialty Skills for Dialysis Nurses
Since dialysis nursing includes treating kidney disease, these nurses need specialty skills for this condition.
Resources for Dialysis Nurses
Frequently Asked Questions About Dialysis Nurses
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