Log InSign Up
Article

What does a Dialysis RN do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A Dialysis RN is a nurse who provides care to patients with renal failure. Dialysis RNs work in dialysis centers, hospitals, and clinics. They are responsible for the care of patients before, during, and after dialysis treatments. Dialysis RNs also provide education to patients and their families about renal failure and dialysis treatments.

Dialysis RN job duties include:

  • Assessing patients before and after dialysis treatment
  • Operating dialysis machines
  • Monitoring patients during dialysis treatment
  • Adjusting dialysis machines as needed
  • Checking patients' vital signs
  • Providing patient education on dialysis treatment and diet
  • Documenting patient care
  • Ordering and stocking supplies
  • Supervising LPNs and CNAs

Dialysis RN Job Requirements

A Dialysis RN is a registered nurse who has specialized training and experience in caring for patients with kidney failure. To become a Dialysis RN, you must first complete an accredited nursing program and obtain your RN license. You then need to complete a Dialysis Nurse Training Program, which is typically offered by hospitals or dialysis centers. Once you have completed the training program, you will be eligible to take the Certified Dialysis Nurse (CDN) exam. To maintain your CDN certification, you must complete continuing education credits every three years.

Dialysis RN Skills

  • Hemodialysis
  • Vascular access
  • Blood chemistry
  • Renal diet
  • Fluid management
  • Medication administration
  • Patient assessment
  • Patient education
  • Infection control
  • Emergency care
  • Teamwork
  • Documentation

Related: Top Dialysis RN Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Dialysis RN

A Dialysis RN is a Registered Nurse who specializes in the care of patients with kidney failure. Kidney failure can be caused by many different conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or an infection. Dialysis RNs work in hospitals, clinics, and dialysis centers. They are responsible for the care of patients before, during, and after their dialysis treatments.

To become a Dialysis RN, you will first need to earn your Registered Nurse (RN) license. To do this, you will need to graduate from an accredited nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). Once you have your RN license, you can then pursue specialized training in Dialysis Nursing. Many hospitals offer this type of training, or you can attend a Dialysis Nursing program at a community college or university.

After completing your training, you will need to pass the Certification Examination for Dialysis Nurses (CEN). This exam is offered by the Board of Nephrology Examiners Nursing and Technology (BONENT). Once you have passed the CEN exam, you will be a certified Dialysis RN and will be able to work in any state in the United States.

Related: Dialysis RN Resume Example

Related: Dialysis RN Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

Similar articles