Dr Kathy Hill1, Anne Britton
1University Of South Australia, , Australia
Biography:
Dr Kathy Hill has a clinical background in nephrology nursing and is currently an investigator for the Resolve Haemodialysis Trial and the M-Fit study (prescribed exercise program for dialysis patients). She has published more than 30 research papers and has expertise in both quantitative methods and qualitative methods. She currently teaches Nephrology Nursing, Research Methods and Epidemiology at the University of South Australia.
Abstract:
Background
Nephrology nursing shortages are becoming a critical problem in renal units due to increasing caseloads, lack of comprehensive training, and high levels of attrition. There is an urgent need to reevaluate training models to ensure the sustainability of the workforce.
Aim
We sought to explore this issue from the perspective of renal unit nurse managers, nephrology nurse educators, and nursing staff working within haemodialysis units, home therapies and renal wards.
Methods
A mixed methods approach was taken through interviews, focus groups and an online survey. We explored current workforce challenges and approaches to training new staff.
Results
33 nephrology nurses drawn from 4 health services participated in a face-to-face interview or a focus group, and 55 completed an online survey (n=88). Staff shortages are described as chronic, and clinical leadership is compromised. This is compounded by employment of nurses with no post graduate qualification in nephrology nursing and limited desire to study for one. Nephrology nursing is now a sellers’ market with staff attracted to units with no night shift and the simplicity of dialysis therapies. Participants concluded that a lack of clinical rotations through ward areas as a starting point hinders the development of knowledgeable renal nurses capable of critical thinking and problem solving.
Conclusion
To address staff shortages, upskill the workforce, and foster clinical leadership, renal units need to consider the reintroduction of mandatory clinical rotations and provide incentives to complete post graduate training, ultimately improving patient care and job satisfaction in the nephrology nursing profession.