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Procedures / Chapter / PER 34
1/04/07

PERSONNEL

Subject
JOB DESCRIPTION:

PERITONEAL DIALYSIS NURSE

(RN & LVN)

Position Summary

The PD nurse (as a RN) reports directly to the Director of Nursing (the LVN reports to the Registered Nurse or charge nurse). He or she will educate the patient, the patient’s family, and the community. After admission he or she will assess, organize, and schedule PD training (CAPD or CCPD). He or she will then set up (with Baxter or Fresenius) the delivery of supplies (in accordance with the patient’s needs).

Qualifications

  • Graduate from an accredited school of nursing (diploma, for an LVN).
  • Current licensure as a RN or LVN, by the State of Texas.
  • Two years’ experience as a RN or LVN (with clinical experience in hemodialysis and/or peritoneal dialysis – within the last 12 months).
  • Working knowledge of ESRD Medicare regulations.
  • Demonstrates working knowledge of the English language, and is able to communicate verbally and in writing. Must also demonstrate leadership qualities.
  • Current cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certificate.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Assist the physician in determining home training candidates, and the type of peritoneal dialysis best suited for the patient. The RN will also be responsible for conduct admissions and nursing assessments.
  • After home training candidacy is established, plan and organize a daily schedule.
  • Incorporate audio-visual materials, worksheets, manuals, and hands-on demonstrations of peritoneal dialysis in patient education. Must be able to use the equipment and supplies efficiently and effectively.
  • Assess the patient and partner's competence in performing both the routine and emergency aspects of peritoneal dialysis. This requires the instructor and partner’s attendance throughout the entire home-training period.
  • Maintain communication program, with respect to progression and/or problems. The RN must also participate in team reviews recommending changes in treatment (based on the patient’s current needs).

  • Maintains adequate records on home patients (both presently training and already at home). This includes ordering all necessary supplies, filing data on machines, troubleshooting, monthly follow-up visits, and tubing changes.
  • Assists physician (and/or RN) in determining alternate plans for patients needing retraining, or changes in modality of therapy. The RN also participates in CQI activities.
  • Is available on-call for patients after hours and on weekends (as scheduled).
  • Must be cross-trained to handle both peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis patients (RN).
  • Must be able to perform effective CPR.
  • Must be able to routinely assist patients (incapable of movement) from their bed to their wheelchair (and back).
  • Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (as required).
  • Must be able to calculate simple mathematical equations.
  • Must be able to routinely work various shifts and schedules.
  • Must be able to perform other duties (as assigned).


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Signature Date

PER 34-2