Member Spotlight

How long have you been a nurse?

I have been a nurse for almost 13 years. I graduated with my BSN in 2011 and received my Master’s in nursing education in 2020. I started my nursing career in neuro-trauma progressive and intensive care, but also worked in vascular, interventional radiology, and onboarding/education of new graduate nurses. I am currently a Quality Improvement Specialist with ESRD Network 5.

How long have you been in nephrology?

Collectively, close to 6 years. I have worked with the ESRD Network for 2.5 years and previously worked in an access center and vascular clinic where I had daily interactions with nephrology patients.

What is unique about nephrology nursing?

I believe nephrology nursing is unique because there is such an emphasis on holistic care of the patient. The emotional, psychosocial, and lifestyle aspects are just as important as caring for the physical needs of the patient. They are often depressed and face many inequities. So, in addition to technical skills, you need soft skills like active listening, effective communication, compassion, and conflict resolution.

What do you value the most about your ANNA membership?

The educational opportunities it provides along with the ability to connect with nurses around the United States. I had the opportunity to attend the 2023 ANNA Symposium in May and it really fueled me to be more vocal about the challenges nephrology patients face, but also the challenges within the nephology nursing workforce.

Do you have a favorite patient story?

Many memorable patients come to mind; however, I recently met a dialysis patient in his 80’s who hasn’t missed a treatment for 7 years (over 1,000 consecutive treatments). This really put dialysis treatment into perspective for me. That’s 1,000 days this patient had to invest to sustain his life. Something many of us take for granted.

What do you enjoy doing when you are not working as a nurse?

Being a mom. I have two boys, ages 6 and 9, and I enjoy watching them grow and learn new things. The first time they read a book to me brought me immense joy!

What would you tell a newly practicing nurse about nephrology nursing?

When I was a new nurse, I felt an immense pressure to work in the ICU because that is what a “real” nurse did. Over the years, I have learned this is a misconception and true nursing means finding what you are passionate about and nurturing that. If you are looking for a challenge,

nephrology nursing is just as challenging as working in an ICU. These patients are incredibly nuanced and come with many comorbidities. Each patient requires individualized care and attention, but the plus side is you have the ability to develop relationships with them because they are in your care for many years.