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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
■ Advanced knowledge in nephrology that includes pathophysiology and management of kidney/urologic conditions and their complications
■ Excellent interpersonal, communication, and assessment skills
■ Sensitivity to the needs of patients and their families as they deal with chronic renal disease and its impact
■ Ability to teach patients about renal disease, treatment, and lifestyle changes
■ Ability to deal with grief and loss that can be associated with renal disease
■ Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team
RELATED WEB SITES AND PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
■ Nephrology Nursing Certification Commission (http://www.nncc-exam.org/cgi-bin/WebObjects/NNCCMain)
■ American Nephrology Nurses Association (http://www.annanurse.org/cgi-bin/WebObjects/ANNANurse.woa)