ANNA Member Spotlight
Welcome to ANNA's monthly member spotlight. 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.
 |
Rita DeJesus, BSN, RN, CNNRetired |
How long have you been a nurse?
36 years
How long have you been in nephrology?
36 years
Why do you love nephrology nursing?
When I started working as a young graduate, I was assigned to a ward where all the patients needed dialysis treatment. I didn’t like the area and I told my mom. Wisely, she said, “Wait and you see how you are going to like it.” Before the end of that work year, I encountered a young patient with multiple diagnoses, and I thought “how sad.” After a while, that patient looked for me at the nurses’ station. She was my cousin, and I hadn’t seen her since I was a child. Two years later, my aunt was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease, and I provided support to her. It is a commitment that touches me close to home. I have always been in nephrology nursing, and I have learned to love it. I have seen how science has advanced and improved the quality of care for the dialysis patient.
What one word would you use to describe nephrology nursing?
Compassion
What is your favorite ANNA member benefit?
A major benefit is professional growth acquired through education.
Do you have a favorite patient story?
A patient of 30 years in dialysis received a report from the oncologist that he had cancer and possible treatment available to treat that diagnosis. The patient made the informed decision of only receiving dialysis. He stated that while receiving dialysis, he had the opportunity to see how his family had grown and also how much he enjoyed his family. I admired his courage and empowerment and his faith in dialysis.
What would you tell a newly practicing nurse about nephrology nursing?
Get knowledge and experience in areas such as ICU or ER because this will increase your ability to make the right decision when caring for patients.
Do you have a favorite hobby?
Planting the earth.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working as a nurse?
Volunteer work at church, including fundraising and coordinating Bible reading. I planned for an early retirement, but I continue collaborating with ANNA Caribbean Chapter as a volunteer leader.
Share a fun fact about yourself.
I sing horribly but regardless, I used to sing to patients during dialysis. The patients would smile happily and then ask me to continue singing.