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BASIC DESCRIPTION
A nephrology nurse practitioner provides primary care to patients with acute or chronic kidney/urologic disorders, those undergoing dialysis, and those who are candidates for or have undergone kidney transplants.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Registered nurse preparation and Nurse Practitioner certification are required; certification is offered by the Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission.
CORE COMPETENCIES/SKILLS NEEDED
â– Advanced knowledge in nephrology that includes pathophysiology and management of kidney/urologic conditions and their complications
â– Excellent interpersonal, communication, and assessment skills
â– Sensitivity to the needs of patients and their families as they deal with chronic renal disease and its impact
â– Ability to teach patients about renal disease, treatment, and lifestyle changes
â– Ability to deal with grief and loss that can be associated with renal disease
â– Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team
RELATED WEB SITES AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
â– Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (http://www.nncc-exam.org/cgi-bin/WebObjects/NNCCMain)
â– American Nephrology Nurses Association (http://www.annanurse.org/cgi-bin/WebObjects/ANNANurse.woa)