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.
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Jennifer Branch, DNP, APRN, NP-C, CCTCInpatient Advanced Practice Provider/Nurse Practitioner |
How long have you been a nurse?
25 years! This year is my 25th anniversary in nursing.
How long have you been in nephrology?
25 years. My entire nursing career I have been blessed to be in nephrology.
What is unique about nephrology nursing?
Nephrology nursing allows me to help patients and their families in acute and chronic settings, in various stages of kidney disease, with truly dedicated peers and professionals. I love the various work settings. Nephrology is also very near to my heart as many of my family members and I have autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD).
What do you value most about your ANNA membership?
My ANNA membership has allowed me to meet so many great friends. I have had volunteer opportunities as a local chapter president, member of the national education planning committee, past Transplant SPN member, speaking at local and national events, and co-authoring and editing some great publications. Every experience has given me confidence and knowledge.
Do you have a favorite patient story?
I have been so lucky to have worked with so many great patients and families. They don't pick us; we are just lucky to be there to help! Every time I have gotten to call in a patient for transplant was the best.
What would you tell a newly practicing nurse about nephrology nursing?
There are so many opportunities in this field! In acute, chronic, hospital, outpatient, independent clinic, and volunteer organizations like ANNA. There are so many ways to make a difference.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working as a nurse?
I love being with family and friends, taking adventures outside with my dog, Rudy, and reading.
Share an interesting fact about yourself.
My kidney transplant is from a deceased donor who was A2 (or non-A1 blood group), and I am a B blood type, was CMV negative (as am I), and occurred about 5 months after being listed. It was truly a miracle! I was attending the ANNA National Symposium when I received the donor call and had to hop on the last flight to Kansas City that night. It was very exciting, and the transplant has been working great ever since. I am forever grateful to my donor family.