Job Description

Job Summary:
The Registered Nurse - Renal provides specialized care to patients with kidney-related conditions, including those undergoing dialysis and managing chronic kidney disease (CKD). The role requires clinical expertise in nephrology nursing, including renal assessment, dialysis treatments, and patient education. The renal nurse will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to provide high-quality, compassionate care for patients with renal disorders.
Key Responsibilities:
Renal Patient Care:

• Provide direct nursing care for patients with kidney disease, including chronic kidney disease (CKD) and acute renal failure.
• Administer and monitor hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis treatments.
• Assess and monitor patients for complications associated with renal disease, including fluid and electrolyte imbalances, blood pressure regulation, and anemia.
• Ensure patient safety during dialysis procedures, including monitoring for adverse reactions and responding to emergencies.

Patient Monitoring and Assessment:

• Conduct thorough renal assessments, including review of medical history, lab results (e.g., creatinine, GFR), and physical exam findings.
• Monitor vital signs, fluid balance, and renal function throughout dialysis treatments.
• Track and document any changes in patient condition, including complications such as infection, hypotension, or access site issues.

Dialysis Treatment Management:

• Prepare patients for dialysis procedures, including setting up machines and ensuring all necessary equipment is ready.
• Initiate, monitor, and terminate hemodialysis treatments per facility protocol.
• Perform dialysis access care (e.g., fistula, graft, or catheter care) and provide education on proper care and maintenance.
• Assess dialysis efficacy, including monitoring laboratory results such as potassium, sodium, and other relevant kidney function markers.

Patient Education and Counseling:

• Educate patients and their families about managing kidney disease, including lifestyle modifications, dietary restrictions, and medications.
• Provide ongoing support and guidance for patients undergoing renal replacement therapies (e.g., dialysis or kidney transplant preparation).
• Educate patients about fluid and electrolyte balance, dietary restrictions, and medication adherence.
• Offer emotional support to patients and families coping with the challenges of renal disease and the emotional aspects of chronic illness.

Collaboration and Multidisciplinary Care:

• Work closely with nephrologists, dialysis technicians, dietitians, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement individualized care plans.
• Communicate effectively with the healthcare team regarding any changes in patient status, treatment plans, or concerns.
• Participate in multidisciplinary rounds and assist with decision-making for complex renal cases.

Infection Control and Safety:

• Adhere to infection control protocols to prevent dialysis-related infections (e.g., vascular access site infections).
• Monitor patients for signs of infection or other complications, and promptly notify the nephrologist or attending physician.
• Ensure compliance with hospital policies and nephrology nursing standards.

Documentation and Record-Keeping:

• Maintain accurate, up-to-date patient records, documenting all aspects of care, dialysis treatments, and patient progress.
• Document patient assessments, treatments, lab results, and responses to dialysis in Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems.
• Ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and hospital documentation policies.

Professional Development:

• Engage in continuing education to maintain up-to-date knowledge of renal care practices, dialysis techniques, and advancements in nephrology.
• Pursue certification in Nephrology Nursing (CNN) or related areas to enhance clinical expertise.
• Attend staff meetings, in-services, and professional development activities related to nephrology nursing.

Qualifications: Education & Certification:

• Registered Nurse (RN) with current licensure in [South Africa].
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) preferred, or equivalent.
• Certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) required.
• Certified Dialysis Nurse (CDN) or Certified Nephrology Nurse (CNN) preferred or encouraged.
• Experience in renal nursing, including dialysis, is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience working as a registered nurse in a nephrology or dialysis setting.
• Experience with hemodialysis and/or peritoneal dialysis.
• Familiarity with renal disease management and treatment protocols.

Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of nephrology and renal care protocols.
• Proficient in performing and monitoring dialysis treatments, including access site care and patient safety.
• Strong critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills for managing renal patients with complex medical needs.
• Ability to educate and communicate effectively with patients and families about renal disease and treatment options.
• Compassionate and patient-centered approach to care.
• Proficient in documentation and Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems.
• Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary healthcare team.