The Hemodialysis Nurse assesses patient’s nursing care needs as it relates to the hemodialysis treatment, to plan and implement appropriate care each treatment, to make appropriate referrals to other health care disciplines or providers as indicated, to evaluate effectiveness of care provided, and to integrate nursing theory into clinical practice.

Position Responsibilities

Patient Care

 Perform patient assessment: vital signs and all other parameters of the ESRD patients, review dialysis orders, determine general physical and mental condition, assist in determining compliance to dietary or medication regimen, document accurately and legibly.

1. Provide chronic hemodialysis therapy: formulate a dialysis plan for ultrafiltration, initiate dialysis via prescribed access, observe all safety measures, and monitor patient vital signs applicable to ESRD patients. Administer medications, fluid therapy and blood products or other treatments related to ESRD per physician’s orders.
2. Perform analysis of patient data: assess and monitor status of vascular access, review lab work, patient assessments, and report any relevant changes or abnormalities to Charge Nurse, or Clinical Coordinator / Facility Administrator and patient’s primary physician.
3. Develop patient plan of care based on patient condition, age, education and socioeconomic conditions that define interventions to attain expected outcomes.
4. Participates with the patient care team in the development and review of both the short term and long term care plan programs.

Planning, Coordinating and Organizing

1. Be able to prepare and monitor dialysis machines and systems.
2. Be able maintain dialysis records and prepare dialysis treatment system for use according to established procedure.
3. Inform technical staff of any malfunctions related to the dialysis treatment equipment.
4. Obtain machine and water cultures as requested.
5. Maintain patient medical records, documenting appropriately and legibly.

Quality Assurance

1. Complete flow sheets verifying charges for the patient.
2. Monitor supplies and assure availability.
3. Participant in CQI process.
4. Monitor compliance with state or federal regulations, federal regulations for patient care and services
5. Have the ability to implement emergency measures as situational conditions demand

Communications and Patient Service Skills

1. Review pre and post dialysis care with patient.
2. Discuss health concerns with patient; review with Physician and Clinical Coordinator / Facility Administrator.
3. Participate with orientation and training of new staff member.
4. Attend staff meetings and educational activities.
5. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Current license to practice as a Registered Nurse in this State.

Graduate of an accredited school of nursing.

Current certification in Basic Life Support.

Experience in dialysis preferred.

At least one (1) year of experience in general nursing or a nursing specialty.