Melanie L. Del Frari, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC

I entered nursing as a hands-on way to care for people during their most vulnerable times. I became a nurse practitioner so I could have a greater impact and involvement in their care. I enjoy the complexity and fast pace of working with patients with vascular disease. It can be a life-changing condition—and suddenly disruptive for the patient and their family. It’s important for me to help the patient with vascular disease understand and improve their condition.

I listen to my patients to find out what they know about their condition. Based on that conversation, I try to help them understand their condition and what their options are. I am honest and thoughtful in my discussions. I want them to know we are a team and I am invested in seeing them do well. It is fulfilling to me when my patient feels valued, respected and more knowledgeable about their condition. I also feel it is very important, when appropriate, to include family members. The family is the support system and for any treatment to work, everyone involved in the patient's care needs to be included.