PGY4/5 Adult Nephrology Residency Training Program
WARD
Rotation-Specific Training Objectives
Overview
During this rotation, trainees must demonstrate their ability to act in the role of most
responsible physician for patients with significant nephrology and/or non-nephrology
issues. The trainee will also learn to develop a comprehensive plan for discharge
from the hospital (to home, a rehabilitation centre or other type of care).
Key areas may include: acute kidney injury; management of patients with end-stage renal disease and
concurrent medical issues; complications of end-stage renal disease, such as vascular or peritoneal dialysis
access problems, or calciphylaxis; acid-base disorders, fluid and electrolyte disorders and disorders of
divalent cation and mineral metabolism; acute glomerular diseases; hypertension; management of
patients in the early and late post-transplant periods; and pharmacology of drugs in renal disease. The
ability to develop a comprehensive plan for discharge from the hospital (to home, a rehabilitation centre
or other type of care) is also a crucial skill.
At the end of this rotation, the trainee will be able to:
Medical Expert

Complete an accurate and well-organized history-taking and physical
examination of the patient with renal disease.

Formulate an accurate diagnosis and differential diagnosis, plan of
investigation and plan of treatment.

Recognize emergency situations, and use appropriate management strategies
for common nephrology emergencies E.g.: hyperkalemia,
hyper/hyponatremia, and severe hypertension.

Demonstrate adequate knowledge of pathophysiology of common renal
disorders (e.g. fluid and electrolytes disorders, glomerular disorders, acute
and chronic kidney disease, etc.).

Appropriately manage hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients, including
writing dialysis prescriptions and troubleshooting complications that arise.

Demonstrate knowledge of and proficiency in managing transplant patients
including care of the immediate post op patient, immunosuppression protocols
and complications of transplantation

Prioritize patients’ acuity and corresponding management appropriately.
Communicator

Assimilate relevant sources of information from the patient's family,
caregivers and other professionals when appropriate, and encourage patients
and families to participate in shared decision-making.

Establish a therapeutic relationship with patients and communicate well with
family.
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PGY4/5 Adult Nephrology Residency Training Program

Provide patients and families with sufficient information regarding the risks
and benefits of treatment alternatives
Collaborator

Demonstrate knowledge of and respect for the individual team members’
contributions and roles in the care of patients with ESRD/CKD.

Provide thorough handover of all patients during rounds and transfer of care
to other services or physicians.
Leader

Carry out clinical services in the context of limited time and resources.

Effectively plan and coordinates patient discharge and follow up from hospital.
Health Advocate

Demonstrate awareness of the role of tests and demonstrate sensitivity to
inconvenience and discomfort to patient.
Scholar
 Develop a plan for self-improvement
 Maintain and enhance professional activities through ongoing learning.
 Critically evaluate medical information and its sources, and applies this
appropriately to practice domains.
Professional
 Carry out duties in a professional manner
 Demonstrate professional behaviour including timeliness, honesty,
compassion and reliability.
 Demonstrate insight into his/her limitations. Responsive to constructive
feedback.
 Exhibit proper professional behaviour (e.g. meeting deadlines and being
punctual)
Ward Curriculum
Please see Appendix A for a comprehensive rotation curriculum
Reviewed & approved by RPC
Date
Rev07.21.15
2|Page