SUNA Spotlight: Beth Ernst
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Though she’s not as visible a member in
the Great Lakes Chapter of SUNA as she was prior to a life-changing event, Beth
Ernst, MSN,
Currently the treasurer for Great Lakes SUNA, Beth is now a
full-time stay-at-home mother to her 14-month-old daughter, Catherine. She was
formerly a nurse practitioner at Pediatric Urology of Michigan, a registered
nurse in the operating rooms at Beaumont-Royal Oak, specializing in urology,
and a registered nurse in the surgical intensive care unit at
Her “new” job is one that she wouldn’t trade for the world.
“Catherine has taken my world by storm,” Beth said. “I have
found the best job of all is being her mommy. She’s put a permanent smile
on my face and is truly an incredible gift. My husband, Dave, has been
incredibly supportive of all of my educational and career ambitions.
Together, we're huge fans of the
Beth received her MSN as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2002
from
“I'm maize and blue through and through, though,” she notes.
Joining SUNA to network with other urology providers and further her professional development, Beth is forever grateful for her time with the professional organization.
“SUNA has provided me with an opportunity to meet some incredible people who continue to enrich my life,” boasted Beth. “I have been fortunate to speak at several conferences and meetings, which provides me with an opportunity to help educate others on pediatric urology issues. It also has provided me with continuing educational experiences which I feel are vital to anyone in the healthcare field.”
But why urologic nursing?
“Honestly, I kind of fell into urologic nursing when working in the operating rooms,” explained Beth. “The people I enjoyed working with most were in the urology area of the OR, so that's where I ended up. I have worked in urology for seven years and have been really fortunate to work with some wonderful people along the way.”
But none as wonderful as the young, innocent and beautiful one in the crib at the Ernst household.