Karen has been a Certified Nephrology Nurse Practitioner for 13 years with over 22 years of nephrology nursing experience. She enjoys working for Stormont-Vail Health and has a background in chronic kidney disease, acute kidney failure, acute therapies, home therapies, transplant, inpatient care and dialysis. Karen volunteers with the National Kidney Foundation Patient Empowerment Program and has served as a CNN-NP item-writer and board member.
Tell us about your career and why you chose nephrology:
Early in my nursing career I chose nephrology for personal reasons. I never adapted to the night shift. A friend and coworker told me the dialysis unit was hiring, so I applied. What I found there was a wonderful family of patients, technicians, nurses and physicians. The culture of teaching, learning, and teamwork was amazing! I enjoyed developing long-term relationships with patients. Kidney disease is so prevalent. Over the years advancements with technology and in the pharmaceutical industry have promoted healthier and longer lives for our kidney community.
Why do you believe strongly in the benefits of certification?
When I started my NP career in nephrology, I knew I wanted to certify with NNCC when I felt ready. Though I could have applied for certification earlier, I waited until I had almost 3 years of experience as a nephrology NP. Certification provides me with professional and personal satisfaction and I have learned so much from NNCC leadership, item-writers and attending conferences. I learn something new from every meeting I attend. "Ancora imparo," is an Italian phrase meaning "And still, I am learning." Often attributed to Michelangelo as an older man and supports the importance of the continued commitment to learning.
What motivates you as a nurse - and what drives you personally?
I really enjoy the long-term relationships with patients and their families, technicians, dialysis nurses, primary nurses in the hospital and clinics, and physicians.
What are your hopes for NNCC, as an organization, and its members?
My hope for NNCC is to continue to expand safety and excellence for the kidney community. Our commissioners and item-writers are dedicated to quality, the highest standards, and innovation.