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Pediatric Nephrologist |
Career OverviewThe kidneys are extremely important as they remove waste and fluid from the body. The body has two kidneys but is able to function with one. When both kidneys stop operating, total kidney failure occurs. This could be fatal without immediate treatment due to a build-up of fluids and toxins. Kidneys not only regulate blood pressure but also balance necessary elements such as sodium, magnesium, potassium and phosphate.
A pediatric nephrologist has the experience and special skills needed to treat children with urinary tract disease, kidney disease or high blood pressure problems. They assess and treat development and growth problems related to chronic kidney disease. Pediatric nephrologists diagnose, care for and manage a wide variety of disorders affecting the urinary tracts and kidneys such as:
- Kidney stones
- Abnormalities in urines such as protein and blood
- High blood pressure
- Kidney failure
- Urinary tract infections
- Inherited kidney diseases
They explain the results of x-rays and laboratory studies associated with kidney disease to the patient and/or family. Pediatric nephrologists provide ambulatory blood pressure monitoring when necessary. Pediatric nephrologists practice treatment and prevention methods ranging from specialized diets and large fluid intakes to transplants. They use medications to control a patient’s blood pressure, bone disease, acid build-up and anemia, thus slowing or even preventing progressive kidney problems.
A pediatric nephrologist provides dialysis to children with kidney failure and performs kidney biopsies and kidney transplants when necessary. A kidney transplant is a very serious form of treatment used when all other methods of treatment fail and the kidneys shut down.
A kidney donor is normally a member of the patient’s family or a close relative as the tissue-type and blood type must match the patient. With the new anti-rejection drugs available today, pediatric nephrologists have had great success using donated organs that are not from relatives or family members.
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Career RequirementsPediatric nephrologists are medical doctors with four years of medical school, three years of pediatric training and an additional three years of pediatric nephrology training.
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Job OutlookThe employment of pediatric nephrologists, physicians and surgeons is project to continue growing faster than average over the next eight years due to the continuing expansion of the health care industry.
The growing population along with the demand for high-level heath care, using advanced technologies and diagnostic testing continues to increase the need for pediatric nephrologists and other medical professional’s services. The job outlook looks very promising.
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Career TrackPediatric nephrologists often start their careers working in hospitals for several years to gain expertise and experience. Some remain there as senior staff members on various treatment teams while others enter into management positions.
They also have the career option of going into private practice, teaching at a college or university, or entering into the research field. In addition, some pediatric nephrologists do consulting work for research projects or enter into private sector, research based careers.
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CompensationPediatric nephrologists average salaries range from approximately $206,800 to over $277,500 annually. Their wages vary due to location, years of experience and employee credentials.
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