What is the role of a nephrology nurse regarding dialysis access?

A nephrology nurse plays a critical role in the care and management of dialysis access sites. This involves a variety of responsibilities, including assessing the integrity and functionality of the access, monitoring for signs of infection or complications, and providing patient education on proper care of the access site. Proper care of the dialysis access is essential to ensure optimal dialysis sessions and minimize the risk of complications that could arise from an improperly maintained access.

While there are other essential roles that nephrology nurses fulfill, such as educating patients about their overall health and dietary needs, or monitoring vital signs, their primary focus regarding dialysis access lies in ensuring that the site is clean, functioning well, and free from infection. This focus enhances patient safety and ensures effective dialysis treatment.