Since becoming a registered nurse 38 years ago, Ray Duarte has been
beset with a difficult challenge: How to improve the quality of life
of kidney-impaired patients.
To
this experienced nephrology specialist, the current dialysis machine
is a miracle of modern technology - and has participated in the
research process to improve it. After much research in fluid removal
models Duarte developed the first in vivo ultrafiltration
rate monitor. This prototype device allowed for the first accurate
projected fluid removal techniques. Duarte's equations of projected
fluid removal (utilized in every computerized dialysis machine)
have reduced the many discomforts normally felt by earlier kidney
patients when too much or too little of the required water was removed.
A
steady, quiet working specialist and researcher, Duarte has excelled
in a field often troubled by severe shortages of funding in research
for nurses. Duarte's many letters of commendation describe him as
knowing as much about nephrology as most physicians in the field.
He became the first nurse to be invited to join a medical honor
society, the American Society for Artificial Internal Organs.
The
California native has published several articles in medical journals
and lectures at national physician and nurse conferences as often
as his personal finances will permit. His valuable research and
compassionate bedside manner have earned him the respect of his
professional colleagues and the affection of his patients.
"They
are the most courageous people I know", says Duarte of kidney-impaired
patients who must undergo 3 to 4 hour dialysis treatments three
times a week.
Duarte's
article"Seismic Risks in Nephrology"
(published in Oct. 1988) established the first guidelines for the
practice of nephrology in earthquake disasters and was referenced
in the New England Journal of Medicine (March 1990). His article
published two months prior to the Armenian Earthquake (December
1988) helped him coordinate an airlift response.
Ray
is the recipient of the Dedicated Services Award, Hemodialysis Foundation,
1976. Named Allied Health Professional of the Year, National Kidney
Foundation of Southern California, October 1986. And nominated for
the 1991 New York Academy of Sciences, Scientific Awards, May 1991.
He is a recipient of a $10,000 Grant from the Santa Barbara Cottage
Hospital Research Committee (April 20,1993).
Resume
Letters of Recommendation
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