Member Spotlight
Member Spotlight
ANNA is a vibrant organization because of nurses like you!
ANNA is a vibrant organization because of nurses like you!
Your diverse experiences and unique perspectives make us a collective whole that is a masterpiece. We are proud of the work each of you do!
If you would like to be featured, participate in our online community, ANNA Connected.
Members are featured in the Member Spotlight based on their engagement in ANNA Connected, so start connecting, talking, and getting to know other ANNA members via ANNA Connected.
Featured Member
Pamela DePiola, DNP, ANP-BC, APRN-C, CNN
Advanced Practice Provider/Nurse Practitioner
Weston, Florida | South Florida Flamingo #206
How long have you been a nurse?
I have been a nurse for 43 years. I graduated with an associate degree in 1982, then received a bachelor’s degree in 2006, a masters in 2008 and Doctor of Nurse Practice in 2012.
How long have you been in nephrology?
I started my career in nephrology 39 years ago.
What is unique about nephrology nursing?
Nephrology nursing is unique in that we are able to help patients and their families in a profound way. Patients who require dialysis support present with very complex comorbidities to be managed, hence incredible bonds are often formed between patients and health care providers. We really make a positive difference in our patients’ lives on a very personal level. This population becomes more like your second family, and I find this very rewarding.
What do you value the most about your ANNA membership?
I enjoy the many ANNA member benefits available because this allows me to keep abreast of the most current medical advances and research technologies. The organization offers great opportunities to network and stay connected to my cohorts around the country. The various meeting and conferences grant the ability to gain insight from peers within all types of communities on how they function with the day-to-day practices in their facilities. Long term friendships and mentorships have been formed.
Do you have a favorite patient story?
Several stories come to mind but the recurring theme common to many patients has to do with assisting elder couples managing current technologies needed to make various appointments, labs, testing, usually with one phone call. They are so grateful and can’t thank you enough.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working as a nurse
I enjoy cooking, traveling, and hanging out with family and friends.
Share an Interesting Fact About Yourself
I have been an active, certified scuba diver since 1988.
What would you tell a newly practicing nurse about nephrology?
This is a very rewarding and multifaceted profession and have a mentor to guide you.
Featured Member
Catherine Wells, DNP, ACNP, CNN-NP, FNKF
Nephrology Nurse Practitioner, Director/Dialysis Oversight
Jackson, MS | Magnolia Chapter #206
How long have you been a nurse?
28 years, initially in critical care and inpatient hemodialysis.
How long have you been in nephrology?
My first experience with Nephrology was inpatient HD 26 years ago. I have practiced as a Nephrology Nurse Practitioner for 22 years. I have the most longevity of any Provider in the UMMC Division of Nephrology. I have been in my current position 19 years, making me the group historian.
What is unique about nephrology nursing?
Nephrology is both intellectual and patient focused. I love getting to know so many people, their hardships, and joys. But I also love the intellectual effort required to care for such complex patients.
What do you value the most about your ANNA membership?
Collaboration with nurses across the country for education and support. We have a unique camaraderie. There are so many amazing Nephrology Nurses with various levels and types of experience among this membership. This group is a wonderful source of ideas.
Do you have a favorite patient story?
There are so many. I have a patient with myasthenia gravis and comorbidities that touch nearly every organ system. We have been through so much as patient/provider. In the past, she was hospitalized 3-4 times per year, but currently she has been out of the hospital for more than 1 year. She needs close, interdisciplinary care, and I appreciate working with that team. I love her spirit of hope and the energy she projects. She is living her best life despite such medical hardship, and I am honored to be a small part of that!
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working as a nurse
Most of my time is spent with my family (and my dogs). I also love music, singing, and ballet.
Share an Interesting Fact About Yourself
I was a classically trained ballerina.
What would you tell a newly practicing nurse about nephrology?
Nephrology is hard. Create a professional growth and education plan early and stick to it. But also take time to enjoy these patients. They are wonderfully resilient, and we have a lot to learn from them!
Why Join ANNA?
The American Nephrology Nurses Association is a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization established to support nephrology nurses through education, advocacy, networking and science.
We are committed to advancing the nephrology nursing specialty and nurturing every ANNA member.
