Nephrologist (Nefroloog)
Information on this skill...
A nephrologist is an internist who, as part of internal medicine, has a specialization in nephrology and deals with kidney disease. That is why the name internist-nephrologist also applies. When practicing this profession as a doctor, you have to deal with patients who have impaired kidney function. There are several conditions within nephrology that are eligible for treatment by a nephrologist. For example, if there is diabetic nephropathy, but also if a patient has to deal with kidney damage as a result of the use of NSAIDs. For example, there are still a number of diseases for which a nephrologist can apply treatments, such as contrast nephropathy and Berger's disease. Malignant hypertension is also an example of diseases, in which a nephrologist treats patients with this condition. This also applies to patients who have to deal with high blood pressure that is difficult to treat. A nephrologist is the first to talk to patients who come to visit via a referral. In addition, a nephrologist provides for the preparation of a treatment advice. There is usually first a physical examination during the visit to the outpatient clinic where the nephrologist works. In that case, the physical examination includes measuring blood pressure. The patient is also asked whether there are physical complaints, and a discussion takes place of blood and urine tests that have been carried out previously. It is also possible that a nephrologist will order additional examinations. Think of having an ultrasound or a scan of the kidneys performed. A nephrologist then discusses the results with the patient and answers questions. Nephrologists can also be regarded as kidney specialists.
Thus, a nephrologist is a medical specialist, doctor and internist who specializes in internal medicine in the field of kidney disease. Usually, a referral from the general practitioner takes place to the kidney specialist. A nephrologist can deal with different types of patients, such as kidney patients, dialysis patients and transplant patients. There are therefore various treatments that can be prescribed, such as a kidney function replacement treatment. In that case, it is possible that a patient is prescribed treatment in the form of kidney dialysis. In this treatment, the waste products are removed from the blood as well as excess fluid and there is talk of taking over the kidney function. It is also possible that a nephrologist prescribes conservative treatment or that it is necessary to perform a kidney transplant. A nephrologist is not the person who performs the transplant because that is done by a surgeon.
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF A KIDNEY TRANSPLANT
A kidney transplant is a heavy physical procedure and is also an event that can affect the social and psychological area. After a kidney transplant, dialysis is no longer necessary and there are almost no dietary restrictions anymore. In addition, kidney patients are less likely to be fatigued after a transplant, participation in social life is again possible. However, there are also a number of disadvantages associated with a kidney transplant. Every operation involves risks and there is therefore a chance of complications. In addition, a lot of medication is needed and is accompanied by possible side effects, such as diabetes, infections, organ damage and osteoporosis. A nephrologist can, of course, discuss the advantages and disadvantages with the patient in order to make an informed decision.
VARIOUS TASKS AS A NEPHROLOGIST:
- Measuring blood pressure;
- Discuss blood and urine tests;
- Discuss any ultrasound or scan results;
- Talking to the patient;
- Present treatment options;
- Drawing up treatment advice;
- Answering patients' questions;
- Prescribe medications.
WHAT DOES A NEPHROLOGIST DO:
NEPHROLOGIST TRAINING
Training to become a nephrologist is a long process. For example, it is first necessary to have completed at least four years of the training to become an internist. This also includes mandatory internships. During the training, it is usually a requirement to have completed at least twenty transplant internships. After the training of internist follows the training to become a medical specialist. Extensive experience in conducting scientific research as a scientist and researcher including publication can be a prerequisite. The specific training focused on a focus area includes a clinical internship as part of it. For example, by doing an internship in a department where patients with kidney disease lie, such as with chronic renal insufficiency, kidney diseases, hypertension and patients with kidney function replacement treatment. An outpatient internship is also part of the training, namely in the nephrology outpatient clinic. For example, a nephrological consultation internship applies, as well as a dialysis internship and transplant internship. It is possible that internships take place in combination.
COMPANIES WHERE A NEPHROLOGIST CAN BE EMPLOYED
A nephrologist usually works in a hospital in the nephrology department or kidney diseases department. It is also possible for a nephrologist to engage in scientific research or teach as an assistant professor.
COMPETENCES NEPHROLOGIST
The competences of a nephrologist can be compared to those of a medical specialist. General competences apply to the profession. Think of having adequate knowledge and skills within the field. That is the field of nephrology for a nephrologist. It is also important to have a strong communication skills, including to build a treatment relationship with a kidney patient. In addition, it is important to work together and consult with colleagues and care providers. A critical look at knowledge and science within the field is of great importance, as is the will to promote the health of patients. It is also important to spend resources in a responsible manner and to have an eye for the organization. Finally, a professional attitude is an important competence to work as a nephrologist.
LABOUR MARKET PERSPECTIVE AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AS A NEPHROLOGIST
Healthcare is part of society and there is always a need for treatment of patients dealing with kidney disease and kidney disease. In this respect, no change in the labour market perspective can be expected, which can now be regarded as favourable. There are options to grow. For example, by obtaining a PhD or conducting scientific research or by working as a nephrologist as a professor or as an assistant professor and giving lectures at university level.
WORKING CONDITIONS AND SALARY NEPHROLOGIST
The salary of a nephrologist is on average between 6,500 euros and 11,000 euros per month. In that respect, there is a big difference between the lowest salary and the highest salary per month. This is partly due to the experience and age of a nephrologist.
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