Author Description

As can be easily seen, Module 2 contains assorted material to assist the nurse in understanding kidney disease, the patient with kidney disease, and interrelated topics. Chapter 1 begins with an in-depth review of genetics and genomics, since many experienced nurses learned relatively little about the topic when in school. The completion of the Human Genome Project catapulted genetic research that is already transforming health care and has great potential to continue this transformation. It certainly includes nephrology care and requires that nephrology nurses be knowledgeable about the matter. The chapter also covers anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology. Chapter 2 focuses specifically on chronic kidney disease and delivers a more detailed approach than the material presented in the previous chapter. Chapter 3 provides a wide array of material to be considered when caring for an individual patient. One of the new areas includes focus on the veteran. Chapter 4 concentrates on nutrition, and Chapter 5 addresses pharmacology. It behooves every nurse to always stay abreast of changes regarding medications, as this is one area that can change rapidly. At all times, be familiar with the package insert and consult with a pharmacist or other reliable source as needed. The foundation of Chapter 6 is infection control practices and is another area where information can change rapidly. Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) was used extensively as a resource.