Module 1: Dialysis Foundations

Understand how hemodialysis works, how the clinic operates, and where the dietitian fits within the IDT. Learn what happens during treatment days and monthly workflows, including labs, QAPI, and the Plan of Care.

You’ll cover topics such as Kt/V, dialysate, dialysis access and prescription, Medicare Conditions for Coverage, the evolution of the “renal diet” and current evidence, medications and supplements, and more.

Module 2: Nutrition Assessment

Learn how to complete dialysis nutrition assessments that identify true nutrition problems—not just lab targets—and apply the Nutrition Care Process in a way that aligns with Medicare requirements.

This includes assessment methods such as SGA, signs and symptoms, labs related to bone and mineral management or electrolytes, and how to prioritize nutrition problems effectively.

Module 3: Nutrition Interventions

Learn how to choose, prioritize, and personalize interventions using protocols, tools, and patient-centered strategies—especially during monthly lab report card conversations.

You’ll have access to our intervention toolbox covering protein, albumin and malnutrition, fluid and electrolytes, bone health, phosphorus and PTH, along with monthly lab report cards you can use directly in practice.

Module 4: Plan of Care (POC)

Understand what’s required for the Plan of Care, how to document efficiently, and how monthly charting connects to patient outcomes.

We walk through when the POC must be updated, how to complete sections within the dietitian’s scope, and strategies to save time—so you can focus more on patient care.

Module 5: QAPI

Learn what QAPI is, what’s expected from the dietitian, and how to prepare, participate, and contribute effectively—including guidance on writing clear, effective action plans.

Module 6: Counseling, Communication & Burnout Prevention

Develop practical counseling, communication, and time-management skills for real dialysis environments, including boundary setting and burnout prevention.

We address the realities of dialysis counseling—such as 5–10 minute patient interactions—along with effective questions to ask and strategies to optimize patient outcomes without burning out.

Module 1: CKD Pathophysiology—The Big Picture

Build a deeper understanding of how CKD affects the body beyond isolated labs. Explore uremic toxins, inflammation, hormone dysfunction, cardiovascular and metabolic complications, gut–kidney interactions, muscle wasting, neurologic changes, and quality-of-life impacts.

You’ll examine hormone disruptions (vitamin D, thyroid, sex hormones, insulin), dyslipidemia, altered glucose metabolism, acid–base balance, dysbiosis, proteolysis, and sleep disruption. Understanding root mechanisms helps you connect symptoms, labs, and outcomes—so you can prioritize interventions that address multiple problems at once.

Module 2: The “New” Renal Diet

Re-examine the traditional renal diet and learn how to apply a more individualized, heart-healthy, evidence-based approach that aligns with patient goals and real-life constraints.

This module reviews common renal restrictions—sodium, potassium, and phosphorus—through the lens of current evidence, strengthening clinical judgment and helping you navigate patient or provider concerns when moving away from blanket restrictions.

Module 3: Advanced Nutrition Assessment

Shift from lab-driven assessments to symptom-driven, system-based evaluation. Learn how to assess dietary patterns, body composition, inflammation, micronutrient risk, gut health, metabolic health, and psychosocial context.

You’ll explore tools such as grip strength and functional proxies, inflammation markers beyond albumin, anemia and glucose patterns, GI symptoms (gas, bloating, constipation), blood pressure and lipid trends, and supplement safety and efficacy.

Module 4: Advanced Nutrition Interventions

Learn how to design interventions that address multiple issues simultaneously, including inflammation, malnutrition, bone disease, cardiovascular risk, gut health, and transplant readiness—using realistic, patient-centered strategies.

Examples include specific nutrient-dense food choices to support both adequate calories and micronutrients, addressing constipation in hyperkalemia, managing sodium beyond “drink less” for fluid gains, and identifying when oral nutrition supplements, probiotics, or other supplementation are appropriate.

Module 5: Counseling in Complex Dialysis Care

Strengthen counseling skills for patients facing resistance, burnout, cognitive barriers, language differences, or long dialysis vintage—while maintaining professional boundaries and making effective referrals.

Topics include Stages of Change, SMART goals, navigating language and cognitive barriers, addressing apathy, and optimizing lobby days, staff in-services, and community support.

Module 6: Becoming a Renal Nutrition Expert

Explore ways to grow professionally in dialysis, including staying current with research, improving efficiency, contributing to the field, mentoring, and positioning yourself as a leader within and beyond your clinic.

This includes guidance on continuing education, speaking, publishing, and participating in community outreach.