Member Spotlight

How long have you been a nurse?

I have been a nurse since 2013. 

How long have you been in nephrology? 

I have been working in Nephrology since January 2013.

What is unique about nephrology nursing?

Nephrology nursing allows you to work with a diverse patient population and you never stop learning. I have been able to work with adult and pediatric patients with many different reasons for kidney failure. Regardless of age or diagnosis their dialysis treatments look very similar.

What do you value the most about your ANNA membership? 

Over the years I have had the opportunity to meet and network with nurses from all over New England and United States. Working with my local chapter I have established relationships with nurses working in acute and chronic dialysis settings. It is amazing to have a resource so easily accessible that connects nurses and other nephrology clinicians together to ask questions or share ideas.

What would you tell a newly practicing nurse about nephrology?

I started working in dialysis as a new grad nurse. My family is full of nurses and every one of them told me I needed to start in adult med/surg to gain experience to be a better nurse. I did not listen to them and I am glad I trusted my gut. The skill sets are different but equally as important. After working in nephrology for over 10 years I have skills that I can use in a dialysis unit, transplant clinic, ICU, inpatient transplant floor, and many other healthcare settings. Nephrology nursing has given my career growth opportunities I may not have experienced working in other nursing areas.