Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Course for Nurse Practitioners

Improve patient outcomes through early recognition and evidence-based management of CKD with this self-paced online course, developed by nurse practitioners with nephrology input for clinicians across Canada 🇨🇦 and the United States 🇺🇸.

Launching Fall 2026. Registration is open now.

Included at no additional cost with another NP Circle course or program purchased by December 31, 2026.

View enrollment options

NP Circle is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.

Meet the faculty

  • Aliya Hajee

    MN, BScN, NP, MSCP
    Nurse Practitioner
    Course Creator & Instructor

  • Alix Consorti

    MN, BScN, NP, MSCP
    Nurse Practitioner
    Course Creator

  • daniel schwartz

    Dr. Daniel Schwartz

    MD, FRCPC
    Nephrologist
    Subject Matter Expert & Course Creator

  • Mary Smith

    PhD, NP-PHC
    Nurse Practitioner & Kidney Health Researcher
    Expert Reviewer

  • Claudia Mariano

    MSc, BScN, PHCNP
    Retired Nurse Practitioner
    Expert Reviewer

We’ve got you covered

  • Built for real-world CKD management in primary care

  • Taught through clinical reasoning, not isolated lab values

  • Covers early detection through comprehensive management and referral

  • Private clinician community for shared learning

  • Self-paced, on-demand modules with lifetime access

 Course overview

  • Chronic kidney disease is common, progressive, and frequently under-recognized in primary care. Early stages are often missed, risk is underestimated, and opportunities to slow progression can be lost.

    This course gives nurse practitioners and other primary care clinicians a clear, evidence-based framework for identifying, staging, and managing CKD across the continuum of care.

    The course emphasizes clinical reasoning over isolated lab values. You’ll learn how to recognize CKD earlier, interpret kidney investigations with confidence, assess risk, and apply evidence-based strategies to slow disease progression and reduce cardiovascular risk.

    Across three modules, the course moves from the foundations of CKD through diagnosis and risk stratification to evidence-based management and comprehensive care. Topics include screening, eGFR and albuminuria interpretation, urinalysis, CKD staging, identifying CKD etiology, disease-modifying therapies, monitoring, complications, cardiovascular risk reduction, and when to escalate care or refer to nephrology.

    The course draws on current Canadian, U.S., and international guidance where relevant. Lab values are presented in SI units, with conventional units included where applicable to support clinicians across Canada and the United States.

    Who it’s for

    This course is designed for nurse practitioners and other healthcare professionals involved in the care of adults with or at risk for chronic kidney disease. It is particularly relevant for clinicians working in primary care and other settings where CKD is commonly identified and managed.

    Learning objectives

    By the end of this activity, learners will be able to:

    • Identify chronic kidney disease earlier in primary care using appropriate screening and confirmation strategies.

    • Describe the evidence-based frameworks used to stage CKD accurately and assess patient risk.

    • Interpret common kidney-related labs, specifically albuminuria and eGFR, to support clinical decision-making.

    • Apply evidence-based strategies to slow CKD progression and reduce cardiovascular risk in the primary care setting.

    • Recognize clinical indicators that require escalation of care or referral to nephrology.

    Course format

    The course is self-paced and fully online and includes:

    • 3 comprehensive modules: Move from CKD foundations and early detection through diagnosis, risk stratification, management, and referral.

    • On-demand lessons: Practical teaching designed around CKD management in primary care.

    • Integrated quizzes: Reinforce key concepts following each module. Quizzes are completion-based, with no minimum passing score required.

    • ANCC contact hours and pharmacology hours: Final hours are being determined and will be posted once confirmed.

    Click each module below to explore what you’ll learn.

  • Build a strong foundation for recognizing CKD early and understanding how and why kidney disease develops and progresses.

    • Definitions, classification, and staging

    • Pathophysiology of CKD progression

    • Epidemiology and major risk factors

    • Systemic consequences of CKD

    • Screening for CKD in primary care

  • Develop a structured approach to interpreting kidney investigations, establishing the diagnosis, assessing risk, monitoring progression, and determining when nephrology involvement is needed.

    • Creatinine and eGFR interpretation

    • Albuminuria assessment and interpretation

    • Urinalysis in CKD evaluation

    • Applying KDIGO staging in practice

    • Identifying CKD etiology

    • Monitoring CKD in primary care

    • Screening for CKD complications

    • Recognizing when to refer to nephrology

  • Apply evidence-based strategies to slow CKD progression, reduce cardiovascular risk, manage complications, and support patients across the CKD journey.

    • Lifestyle management in CKD

    • Blood pressure management in CKD

    • Diabetes management in CKD

    • SGLT2 inhibitors in CKD

    • RAAS blockade and hyperkalemia management

    • Managing CKD complications

    • Cardiovascular risk reduction in CKD

    • Advanced strategies to slow CKD progression, including nonsteroidal MRAs and GLP-1 receptor agonists

    • Preparing for advanced care in CKD

    • Immunization and infection prevention in CKD

    • Multidisciplinary care models for CKD

 FAQs

  • The CKD Course will launch in Fall 2026. Registration is open now.

    There are two ways to access the course:

    Option 1: Purchase another NP Circle course or program
    Purchase by December 31, 2026, and the CKD Course is included at no additional cost. Already purchased one? You’re automatically included. No action needed.
    Explore NP Circle courses and programs here

    Option 2: Enroll in the CKD Course on its own
    No other NP Circle course or program purchase is required.
    Enroll in CKD Course here

  • No. You’re already included. No action is required. You’ll automatically receive access to the CKD Course when it launches.

  • Yes. NP Circle is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.

    The final number of ANCC contact hours and pharmacology hours is currently being finalized and will be posted once confirmed.

    To receive contact hours, learners must complete the required course modules, associated quizzes, and activity evaluations. The quizzes are completion-based, with no minimum passing score required.

  • Yes. You will receive a certificate of completion, along with your contact hours, once you finish the course and the post-activity requirements.

  • No. The course is designed for nurse practitioners and other healthcare professionals involved in caring for adults with or at risk for chronic kidney disease.

  • The course is fully self-paced and on-demand, so you can start any time and work at your own speed. The private peer discussion space is there for questions and collegial support throughout.

  • The course draws on current Canadian, U.S., and international clinical guidance where relevant. Lab values are presented in SI units, with conventional units included where applicable to support clinicians across Canada and the United States.

  • Yes. The course is designed around the role of primary care in identifying, assessing, managing, and monitoring CKD, as well as recognizing when escalation of care or nephrology referral is needed.

  • Yes. This activity was supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Boehringer Ingelheim. Boehringer Ingelheim did not participate in the planning, content, delivery, or evaluation of this activity.

  • Ready to feel more confident managing CKD?

    Build a practical, evidence-based approach to identifying CKD earlier, assessing risk, slowing disease progression, reducing cardiovascular risk, and knowing when to refer.

    • Self-paced: Complete the course on your own schedule.

    • Expert-developed: Developed by NPs with nephrology input.

    • Primary care focused: Screening, diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and referral.

    • Clinically relevant: Apply what you learn to real-world CKD care.

    • Built for Canada and the U.S.: Relevant guidance and units for clinicians across both countries.

    • Continuing education: ANCC contact hours and pharmacology hours to be announced.

    There are two ways to access the course:

    Option 1: Purchase another NP Circle course or program
    Purchase by December 31, 2026, and the CKD Course is included at no additional cost. Already purchased one? You’re automatically included. No action needed.
    Explore NP Circle courses and programs here

    Option 2: Enroll in the CKD Course on its own
    No other NP Circle course or program purchase is required.
    Enroll in CKD Course here

Testimonials

  • Kathy Rukavina

    "I’m so grateful for NP Circle. This platform has given me the opportunity not only to connect with nurse practitioners across the country, but also to access high-quality, accessible online educational opportunities. The Menopause Management Course was excellent, offering practical, evidence-based tools that I will be able to utilize in my practice when caring for women during this life transition. I look forward to the upcoming Primary Care Review Course. Thank you to Aliya and the NP Circle team for building this great platform together!"

    Kathy Rukavina, MN, ANP, NP(F)
    Nurse Practitioner - AB

  • “This platform has been a great place to connect with other NPs, share insights and engage in continuing education opportunities geared to support NPs in their practice. I'm so glad I decided to become a part of this community. For the first time in my NP career I feel like I have a community and an amazing support network at my fingertips. The Lab Interpretation and Menopause Management courses along with the frequent webinar offerings on varied topics, and real world case discussions others bring to the forum make it easy to keep current and upgrade your knowledge. Thank you for creating this space!”

    Marie Loughnane, MN, NP- Adult, MSCP
    Nurse Practitioner - ON

  • Meagan Beavers

    “NP Circle is an incredible platform for the busy NP. Not only are their multiple course offerings, but there is a plethora of valuable resources at one's fingertips - including the valuable input from other NP's. Having taken multiple courses from a wide variety of platforms, I can attest that NP Circle is absolutely the best platform out there in regards to content and value for money. The NP Circle Lab Interpretation Course is by far the most valuable course I have ever taken.”

    Meagan Beavers, MSN, RN, BA, FNP-C, CEN
    Nurse Practitioner - CA, ON

  • "There’s something truly special about a community of nurse practitioners who share not only a similar educational background and clinical experience, but also a genuine passion for delivering exceptional patient care. NP Circle is exactly that! I joined NP Circle for the Menopause Management Course while preparing for the MSCP exam. I reviewed other recommended materials, but found the course much more practical and user-friendly while still covering everything I needed to know for the exam. The evidence-based content, algorithms, and real-world clinical guidance helped everything come together in a way that made sense. I felt well prepared going into the exam, and I’m thrilled to say that I passed. The course also left me feeling even more confident caring for patients in practice. I highly recommend this course to any clinician looking to strengthen their knowledge of menopause management. Thank you to the entire NP Circle team!"

    Danielle Marston, FNP-C, CLC, MSCP
    Nurse Practitioner, CO

  • Barb Hood

    “I am a semi-retired NP providing care to remote communities. Even after 25 years in practice and decades of women’s health conferences, I still find menopause care challenging to navigate at times. The Menopause Management Course has been the perfect enhancement to my knowledge. The content is highly curated, evidence-based, and well organized, with helpful PDFs and charts for each module. The self-paced format with built-in repetition makes it easy to retain key concepts. Concepts like SERMs, TSECs, and KNDy neurons finally clicked once I heard Aliya explain them. Aliya’s gentle voice provides a warm and humble backdrop, and you can feel the respect she has for women, the content, and the learner. Kudos to Aliya, Claudia, and their team. This is most certainly the best course I have ever taken, and I have enough certificates to paper a wall.”

    Barb Hood, BScN, NP-PHC
    Nurse Practitioner - ON, NWT 

  • Kim Harkness

    "NP Circle’s Lab Interpretation Course is an amazing resource for both new and seasoned NPs. It’s self-paced with lifetime access and is conveniently delivered in short sections that can be completed at any time as schedules allow. The hard work put into the development of this course is evidenced by the comprehensive content and expert review. This is an outstanding and much needed resource for all NPs contributing to a gap in NP education. Thank you NP Circle!"

    Kimberly Harkness, MN, NP-PHC, NP-Adult, GNC(C)
    Nurse Practitioner - ON

  • “The NP Circle Menopause Management Course opened up so much information and understanding for me regarding the transition for women and how to better treat them. The course was laid out in such a way that each module built on the prior ones which provided a deeper understanding and solidification of knowledge. I feel more prepared to take the Menopause Society Certification Exam after completion of this course. Highly recommend this course!”

    Lori Wistling, APRN, FNP-BC, FNP-C
    Nurse Practitioner - FL

  • Marianne Leblond

    "As a new graduate, NP Circle has been a life changer for me. I feel extremely empowered by the community, the trainings, and the knowledge I’ve gained so far. The Lab Interpretation Course has made a huge difference in my confidence and was exactly what I needed. I love the short videos, how the course is divided, and how clear and easy everything is to understand. It’s already changing my day-to-day practice!"

    Marianne Leblond, MN, IPSPL
    Nurse Practitioner - QC

  • Poonam Sehgal

    “The education is excellent. As an NP, I appreciate how practical and clinically focused the Menopause Management Course is. Menopause is an area of women’s health that is often overlooked in traditional training, yet it has a significant impact on patients’ quality of life. This course provides clear, evidence-informed guidance that will meaningfully improve how NPs assess, educate, and support women through this transition.”

    Poonam Sehgal, MScN, NP-PHC
    Nurse Practitioner - ON

  • Kristin Carey

    “As an experienced nurse practitioner, I found this lab interpretation course to be both refreshing and incredibly valuable. The content is concise yet comprehensive, covering everything from basic panels to more complex diagnostics in a clinically relevant way. It’s clear the course was designed with real-world application in mind — bridging the gap between textbook knowledge and what we actually see in practice. Whether you’re newly licensed or have years under your belt, this course sharpens your diagnostic skills and boosts confidence in managing complex lab results. Highly recommend for anyone looking to elevate their clinical acumen.”

    Kristen Carey, MN, NP(F)
    Nurse Practitioner - SK, BC

  • “After completing the Menopause Management Course this past weekend, I was able to immediately apply what I learned in my primary care practice. Just yesterday, I used the principles from the course with 4 different patients at 4 different stages of menopause! I felt confident asking pertinent questions, discussing expectations, and even adjusting hormone therapy routes when requested. As an experienced provider, this felt like a true WIN-WIN! I was able to expand my knowledge while guiding my patients toward the best course of treatment for their lives. I highly recommend NP Circle’s Menopause Management Course!”

    Antoinette Riley, DNP, FNP-BC, DCNP
    Nurse Practitioner - TX

  • Brooke Wagner

    “NP Circle creates the best educational opportunities I’ve come across in my NP career thus far. Hearing from the industry’s top specialists about tips and tricks on how we can manage many illnesses and conditions that we often refer for in primary care is motivating, empowering and can significantly reduce the volume of referrals sent and wait times for patients.”

    Brooke Wagner, MN, NP-PHC
    Nurse Practitioner - ON

  • Kelsey MacNeil

    “This is a wonderful platform. I actually left primary care about a year ago because I was a new grad and felt so overwhelmed by all the knowledge gaps I had. But since I’ve been watching all of these webinars and doing my own studying to fill in my learning gaps, I went back to primary care a couple of months ago. I’m sure you know this, but you are making such a massive difference for NPs!”

    Kelsey MacNeil, MN, NP-PHC
    Nurse Practitioner - ON

  • Andrea Mayne

    "I am so incredibly grateful and happy that NP Circle exists! I’ve always felt that NPs haven’t previously had structured and high quality resources available to help foster continuing education after graduation, and NP Circle has really superseded my expectations. Every course I’ve taken has left me with a wealth of invaluable and practical knowledge, and the platform is full of high-quality and practical resources! I also love the questions and answers that NPs across the country are able to contribute to. It’s such a helpful learning resource. I can’t thank Aliya enough for creating this space for all of us!"

    Andrea Mayne, MN, AGPCNP
    Nurse Practitioner - ON

  • “Could not be happier with my decision to attend the Primary Care Expert Series. For less than $20 per session, you get evidence-based and relevant clinical tools from medical specialists. The majority of the sessions are held after a standard work day and recorded for later viewing as well, which is super convenient. After attending each session, I take away valuable knowledge that will enhance the care that I provide my patients.”

    Claire Smith, MN, NP-PHC
    Nurse Practitioner - ON

  • “These are the most important education sessions you can attend as a nurse practitioner in primary health care. You leave with tangible tools to better serve your patients and minimize unnecessary referrals and long specialist wait times. Sessions are organized with sufficient time for questions and some specialist even provide post-session written materials.”

    Alexandra Milne, MN, NP-PHC
    Nurse Practitioner - ON

  • "As a recently retired NP, I have experienced firsthand the diverse facets of our profession, from clinical expertise and advocacy, to leadership , scholarship, and research. Now more than ever, it's crucial to be part of a supportive community of like-minded NPs. Being connected in this way empowers us to grow both individually and collectively, enhancing our ability to elevate patient care to new heights."

    Claudia Mariano, MSc, PHCNP
    Retired Nurse Practitioner - ON

  • “My experience working with Claudia at NP Circle was incredibly positive. She provided thoughtful guidance, practical career insight, and a supportive approach during a time when I was navigating several major professional decisions, including a significant cross-border move and career transition. Her coaching helped me gain clarity, confidence, and a better understanding of the direction I wanted to move in professionally. Claudia was also exceptionally responsive, approachable, and genuinely invested throughout the process. I always felt supported and able to reach out with concerns. I truly appreciated her encouragement, perspective and ability to tailor the process to my individual goals and circumstances. Thank you, Claudia, for your guidance and support throughout this process.”

    Christine Pirwitz, NP
    Nurse Practitioner - BC

  • “I’m so happy this exists! I would highly recommend these events to any primary care provider who is looking to gain knowledge from some of the best specialists and improve their everyday practice. I’ve already been able to implement some of the knowledge I gained from the first session into my practice and prevent an unnecessary referral! 5/5 stars”

    Bri Smith, MN, NP-PHC
    Nurse Practitioner - ON

  • "I’m loving being a part of NP Circle! The programs are taught by NPs, MDs, and others who are the best in their field. I’ve had so many great takeaways for my practice. All the resources I need for practice are easily accessible. It’s also been nice to receive updates on relevant news to NP practice and to learn from difficult cases posted by other NPs. Any questions I have related to daily practice or career advancement I can post on there and someone always has helpful advice/information. All in all it’s a great one stop shop for all my NP needs!"

    Helen Nicolle, MN, NP
    Nurse Practitioner - ON, NB

This course was supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Boehringer Ingelheim. Boehringer Ingelheim did not participate in the planning, content, delivery, or evaluation of this activity.