- Categories:
- Appreciation
- Tags:
- AppreciationAwarenessCareer
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Week starting with the 2nd Monday of September
- Holiday emoji:
- 👩‍⚕️
Nephrology Nurses Week runs every second week of September, honoring the dedicated professionals who provide life-saving care to kidney patients. This week recognizes their expertise in dialysis, transplantation, and chronic kidney disease management. Take time to thank these compassionate caregivers, learn about kidney health, and support their vital contributions to healthcare.
Want to sponsor Nephrology Nurses Week? Learn how
Nephrology Nurses Week timeline
​These included immunosuppressants — medications that suppress the immune system in order to keep the body from rejecting a new kidney via a transplant.
​Although kidney transplants were attempted earlier, Joseph E. Murray, an American plastic surgeon, performed the first successful kidney transplant in Boston on identical twins.
​Willem Kolff, a pioneer in the field of artificial organs, completes the first successful use of hemodialysis, a tool that purifies the blood and can improve kidney function.
Scipione Riva-Ricci, an Italian internist and pediatrician, used a cuff around the arm to improve blood pressure readings.
Richard Bright, an English physician, recognized that kidney disease was separate from other medical conditions.
Nephrology Nurses Week FAQs
When is Nephrology Nurses Week?
In 2026, Nephrology Nurses Week runs Monday, September 14, through Sunday, September 20. It’s the perfect time to acknowledge the vital contributions of these specialized healthcare professionals.
How many nephrology nurses are there in the U.S.?
While exact numbers fluctuate, there are tens of thousands of dedicated nephrology nurses across the United States. These professionals work in diverse settings, from hospitals to dialysis centers, providing critical care.
How many Americans are affected by kidney disease?
Approximately 37 million American adults, or about 1 in 7, are estimated to have chronic kidney disease (CKD) in 2026. Many are unaware they have it until it reaches advanced stages, underscoring the need for early detection.
What are the primary responsibilities of a nephrology nurse?
Nephrology nurses specialize in kidney health, managing patients with kidney disease, those undergoing dialysis, and post-transplant care. Their responsibilities include patient education, medication management, and operating complex dialysis equipment.
How to Observe Nephrology Nurses Week
Get patients in on the action
Patients (and family members) might write cards or post on social media using #NephrologyNursesWeek so they can show their appreciation for the nurses who work so hard.
Reach out to newspapers, websites and local TV
Take advantage of this week to offer journalists specific nurses and stories of interest.
Put your appreciation on display
Reach out to local hospitals, schools, and libraries to and ask if you can set up a special display that honors and celebrates the nephrology nurses in the area.
​5 Important Things To Know About Kidney Disease
​Kidney transplant numbers are low
​Of the approximately 90,000 U.S. patients waiting for a kidney, only 20 percent of them will actually get the opportunity.
One kidney is enough
​Although most people are born with two kidneys, you can still live a full, healthy life with only one functioning kidney.
​Common health issues are the leading cause of kidney disease
​Diabetes and high blood pressure — issues that affect many people — cause approximately 44% of kidney failure cases in the U.S.
​Too many people suffer from kidney disease
​Approximately 13% of adults in the U.S. suffer from a kidney disease.
​Kidney disease targets a certain age group
​Although kidney disease affects people from all age groups, people over 60 have the highest odds of developing it.
Why Nephrology Nurses Week is Important
Commitment
Nephrology nurses serve, inspire, motivate, and encourage their patients to survive and overcome their kidney disease. Caring for kidney patients requires an exceptional skill level.
Talent
Nephrology nurses use their vision, knowledge, and skills to improve patient outcomes. They cite the variety and challenges of the specialty as fueling their ongoing passion.
Inspiration
Nursing students have the opportunity to learn what the field of nephrology entails. The week might inspire them to follow one of the many paths in this field.
Nephrology Nurses Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 14–20 | Sunday–Saturday |
