Kidney Disease Increase Requires More Nephrology Nurses

Cases of hypertension and diabetes continue on the rise, especially in minority communities throughout America, and it is these populations most at risk for kidney disease. As many as 20 million Americans are estimated to have kidney disease, much of which is yet undiagnosed.

Nephrology is that branch of medicine dealing with the kidneys and a nephrology nurse can work in a variety of settings dealing with kidney care: direct care of patients with renal disease who receive either dialysis or kidney transplants; educating patients, communities and other healthcare professionals about kidney disease prevention and treatment; research in effective nephrology treatments; and advocacy roles to promote better care of every kidney disease patient.

Nephrology nurses are registered nurses (RN) who have pursued specialized education, often at the master's degree level, in coursework as well as practical work regarding caring for patients who are experiencing or at high risk of experiencing kidney disease. To be officially considered a Certified Nephrology Nurse (CNN) requires successful passage of the exam administrated by the Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (NNCC). Nephrology nurses must be knowledgeable about not only the treatment for renal replacement therapy, they must be well versed in a broad array of topics influencing the care and treatment of adult and pediatric patients and their families, including nutrition, rehabilitation and counseling. Nephrology nurses are in constant education mode to further their knowledge via publications and special programs sponsored by the American Nephrology Nurses Association (ANNA).

Because kidney disease affects every other organ in the body, nephrology nursing is an exciting field with limitless career opportunities because it interacts with virtually every other healthcare category. Nurses who enjoy hands-on work can direct their energies in patient care at dialysis units in clinics and at hospital settings. Those who select nephrology as their specialty can quickly move into management at the clinic or hospital level. Those with a passion for education can become involved in community outreach programs and political action committees to further the cause of kidney disease prevention, kidney disease treatment and kidney disease screening. Salaries for Certified Nephrology Nurses in major metropolitan areas are averaging $71,000 annually.