KeAndra Jones Spotlight
In this interview, we explore what makes KeAndra Jones, MSN, APRN, CPNP-PC, a compassionate and accomplished pediatric nurse practitioner.
Name: KeAndra Jones, MSN, APRN, CPNP-PC
Title: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Office: CNPA Clinton
Can you describe your role and what a typical day looks like for you?
As a pediatric nurse practitioner, I have the privilege of caring for patients from birth through young adulthood. In a typical day, I perform a combination of routine well visits and sick visits to manage both chronic and acute illnesses. In addition to diagnosing and treating various health conditions, I order and review labs, coordinate referrals to specialists and communicate closely with my patients and families throughout the day. I love my role because I can combine my clinical expertise and education with meaningful patient connections to promote healthy development and positive health outcomes.
What’s one project/accomplishment you’re especially proud of, and why?
One of my proudest accomplishments is becoming a nurse practitioner. As an African American woman born to teenage parents, I was always aware of the statistics and stereotypes that could have defined my path in life. However, I chose a different trajectory. Through determination, hard work and a strong family support system, I was able to silence the stereotypes and achieve my goals. I get to care for a diverse group of patients, but I find a little extra joy in the smile of the little girl who lights up when I walk in the room because she sees pieces of herself in me. Diversity and representation in health care matter so much. I always hope my journey reflects resilience, purpose and the belief that your beginnings do not have to determine your future.
What core value do you think you embody the most (Compassion, Commitment, Connection) and why?
This one is tough because I feel I embody all three equally.
Compassion: I approach each child and family with empathy and recognize visits can feel overwhelming sometimes. I take time to listen, validate concerns and ensure my families feel seen, heard and supported. Through trust, I can make each patient experience as positive as possible.
Commitment: I am dedicated to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care in my commitment to providing patient-centered care. I strive to practice with honesty, integrity and accountability every day.
Connection: I value the diversity of the families I serve and strive to always build meaningful and respectful relationships with each of them. By being culturally sensitive to their needs, I can meet them where they are and foster open communication and partnerships with my patients and families. My goal is to always empower my patients so they can feel confident in being active participants in their care.
What inspired you to pursue this career path?
As a child, I always knew I wanted to go into medicine. I watched cartoons like any other child, but I was also drawn to shows like “Rescue 911” and “ER”, which could hold my attention for hours. As an undergrad student at Tufts University, I had the opportunity to intern at The Floating Hospital for Children (now known as Tufts Children’s Hospital). I worked with child life specialists and was able to shadow a pediatric nurse practitioner. I witnessed, firsthand, the impact that a compassionate and knowledgeable provider could have on a child’s health. I fell in love with the profession and started my journey to becoming a nurse practitioner.
While completing my NP program, I worked as a pediatric ICU nurse, which further solidified my decision to become a nurse practitioner. Caring for children with preventable exacerbations of chronic conditions ultimately inspired me to go into primary care. I wanted to focus on prevention, early intervention and health promotion, to help children and families achieve better long-term outcomes.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
Many people may be surprised to learn that I love sports and dancing! I have danced since I was a little girl (hip-hop, jazz, Afro and ballet) and played softball and basketball all through high school. As an adult, I still dance via Zumba every week, and in my downtime I like to catch a good basketball or football game with family and friends.
What motivates you at work?
My patients! I view each day as an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in their health and overall development. Helping children feel better and empowering parents with knowledge and reassurance makes the work so rewarding. I love supporting families through every stage of growth and witnessing positive outcomes. Whether it’s seeing a child recover from an illness or a child thriving at a well visit, I love what I do! I also have a great team of colleagues and support staff who help me to do what I do every day. They’re the best!