Nephrology

Inpatient Nephrology Services at Richmond University Medical Center provides comprehensive, hospital-based care for patients with acute and chronic kidney conditions. Our team works in close collaboration with multiple specialties to deliver evidence-based, individualized care for both complex inpatient cases and acute renal emergencies.

Our inpatient nephrology service is experienced in diagnosing and managing a wide spectrum of kidney-related conditions, including:

• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
• Kidney Stones
• Glomerulonephritis
• Polycystic Kidney Disease
• Hypertension & Diabetic Nephropathy
• Nephrotic and Nephritic Syndromes
• Electrolyte & Acid–Base Imbalances
• Hematuria 
• Dialysis for Acute and Chronic Kidney Failure
• Peritoneal Dialysis Management
• Pre-Transplant Evaluation and Coordination

Each patient receives a comprehensive inpatient evaluation, including a review of medical history, laboratory data, imaging, and subspecialty input as needed. Our nephrology team frequently collaborates with rheumatology, endocrinology, cardiology, urology, gastroenterology, and critical care to ensure coordinated, multidisciplinary care that addresses the complex interactions between kidney health and other organ systems.

Specialized Inpatient Nephrology Services

Our inpatient nephrology division offers a full spectrum of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures:

• Renal Ultrasound: Uses advanced imaging technology to assess kidney structure, size, and function, aiding in the diagnosis of a variety of renal pathologies.
• Biopsy Procedures: Ultrasound- or CT-guided kidney biopsies are performed with precision and safety to obtain tissue samples for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment.
• Interventional Procedures: Ultrasound-guided interventions include drainage of renal cysts and abscesses, as well as nephrostomy tube placements, addressing structural or infectious complications.
• Hemodialysis: For patients with kidney failure, inpatient hemodialysis is provided in a specialized unit under expert medical supervision. Blood is circulated through a dialysis machine to remove toxins, excess fluids, and waste products before being returned to the body. 
• Peritoneal Dialysis: In select cases, peritoneal dialysis is initiated or managed during hospitalization. A special dialysis fluid is infused into the abdominal cavity to absorb waste products and excess fluid, then drained. This method can support both inpatient treatment and long-term outpatient dialysis planning.
• Home Hemodialysis Planning: For appropriate patients, the inpatient team coordinates education and transition planning for home hemodialysis, providing training and support to patients and caregivers to enhance flexibility and quality of life after discharge.

The inpatient nephrology team at RUMC provides high-quality, patient-centered renal care, using the latest advancements in nephrology by board certified nephrologists to restore and protect your kidneys.

Meet our team