Nephrologists specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of kidney-related conditions. In a hospital setting, their services include:

1. Diagnosis and Assessment:

o Kidney Function Tests: Evaluating blood and urine tests such as serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and glomerular filtration rate (GFR).
o Imaging Studies: Ordering and interpreting ultrasounds, CT scans, MRIs, and other imaging modalities to assess kidney structure and function.
o Biopsy: Performing kidney biopsies to diagnose various kidney diseases.

2. Medical Management:

o Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) Treatment: Managing sudden loss of kidney function, often due to illness, injury, or medications.
o Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Management: Monitoring and treating progressive loss of kidney function, including stages of CKD and associated complications.
o Hypertension Management: Treating high blood pressure, particularly when related to kidney issues.
o Electrolyte Imbalances: Correcting abnormalities in electrolyte levels, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphate.
o Anemia Management: Treating anemia associated with chronic kidney disease, often with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and iron supplements.

3. Dialysis Services:

o Hemodialysis: Managing patients on hemodialysis, including initiating and adjusting treatment plans.
o Peritoneal Dialysis: Overseeing patients using peritoneal dialysis, providing training, and managing complications.
o Vascular Access Management: Ensuring the creation and maintenance of vascular access for dialysis, such as fistulas and catheters.

4. Kidney Transplantation:

o Pre-Transplant Evaluation: Assessing patients for eligibility for kidney transplantation.
o Post-Transplant Care: Managing immunosuppressive therapy and monitoring for rejection and other complications post-transplant.

5. Management of Associated Conditions:

o Diabetic Nephropathy: Treating kidney disease related to diabetes.
o Glomerulonephritis: Managing inflammatory conditions affecting the glomeruli.
o Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): Monitoring and treating patients with genetic kidney disorders like PKD.

6. Procedures:

o Insertion of Dialysis Catheters: Placing temporary and permanent dialysis catheters.
o Paracentesis and Thoracentesis: Performing procedures to remove fluid from the abdomen or chest in patients with kidney-related fluid overload.

7. Patient Education and Counselling:

o Dietary Counseling: Advising patients on dietary modifications to manage kidney disease, including protein, potassium, and phosphorus intake.
o Lifestyle Modifications: Educating patients on lifestyle changes to support kidney health, such as smoking cessation and exercise.

8. Multidisciplinary Collaboration:

o Working with Other Specialists: Collaborating with cardiologists, endocrinologists, urologists, and dietitians to provide comprehensive care.
o Team-Based Care: Participating in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss complex cases and develop integrated treatment plans.

9. Acute Care Services:

o Emergency Management: Treating acute kidney-related emergencies, such as severe hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis, and uremic complications.
o Critical Care: Managing renal issues in critically ill patients, including those in intensive care units (ICUs).