Renal Pharmacotherapy-Managing Chronic Kidney Disease

This CE course for Registered Nurses (RNs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) focuses on Renal Pharmacotherapy: Managing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), an essential area of practice as CKD remains a growing public health concern. With millions affected in the U.S. alone, this course equips healthcare professionals with vital skills for managing the progression and complications associated with CKD.

Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of CKD pathophysiology, including its primary causes such as diabetes and hypertension, along with the stages of disease based on glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Learners will explore essential diagnostic tools, including urinalysis, imaging, and GFR assessments, to accurately evaluate CKD progression and related risks.

This program emphasizes evidence-based pharmacotherapy, including ACE inhibitors, ARBs, phosphate binders, and anemia management agents, along with the integration of non-pharmacologic interventions. Nurses will also learn to manage common complications such as hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis, and renal bone disease. The course outlines referral criteria for dialysis or transplant, along with conservative care principles, and highlights collaboration with nephrologists for advanced care planning. RNs and NPs will leave with actionable skills to monitor treatment response, educate patients on safe medication practices during acute illness, and deliver person-centered renal care.

Educational Objectives

• Explain the pathophysiology and primary causes of CKD, including diabetes and hypertension, and how they contribute to disease progression.
• Identify CKD stages using GFR and describe corresponding clinical signs and symptoms from early to advanced renal impairment.
• Interpret key diagnostic tests—such as GFR, urinalysis, and imaging—to assess disease status and guide clinical decisions.
• Implement evidence-based pharmacologic strategies such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and adjunct therapies to slow CKD progression and manage comorbidities.
• Address complications including anemia, hyperkalemia, acidosis, and renal bone disease through therapeutic intervention and patient education.
• Recognize indicators for initiating dialysis or transplant, and coordinate appropriate referrals and support for patients exploring renal replacement therapy.
• Monitor ongoing kidney function and therapeutic effectiveness through structured follow-ups and care planning with nephrology teams.
• Educate patients on safe medication use during acute illnesses to prevent CKD progression and reduce hospitalizations.

Who Should Do This Course

This course is designed for Registered Nurses (RNs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) involved in the management of chronic diseases, nephrology, internal medicine, and primary care settings. It is particularly beneficial for clinicians caring for patients with or at risk for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).

This CE course fulfills the following state-required license renewal topics:

• Advanced Pharmacology: Ohio, Alaska
• Pharmacotherapeutics: Hawaii, Louisiana, Oklahoma, West Virginia, Connecticut, Arkansas, Illinois, Nebraska, South Carolina, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin
• Pharmacology: Alabama, Indiana

Did You Know?

• More than 1 in 7 U.S. adults—an estimated 37 million people—have Chronic Kidney Disease (CDC, 2023).
• Diabetes and hypertension are the leading causes of CKD, accounting for nearly 70% of cases in the U.S. (National Kidney Foundation, 2023).
• Early-stage CKD often goes undiagnosed due to asymptomatic presentation, highlighting the importance of regular screening.
• Timely use of ACE inhibitors or ARBs has been shown to slow CKD progression and reduce cardiovascular risks (NIH, 2022).
• CKD increases the risk of heart disease and premature death, making it a key focus area for preventive care in primary practice.