Donna Harrell

Undergraduate: Middle Tennessee State University
Internship: National Health Corporation
Credentials: RD, LDN, CNSD
Number of Years in Practice: 8 years
Present Employer(s): Coram Healthcare and Skyline Medical Center
Current Position(s): Nutrition Support Dietitian and Clinical Dietitian

Briefly describe your practice:

I recently accepted a position with the leading Home infusion company, Coram Healthcare. They are one of the few Home infusion companies that hire registered dietitians. Coram has either full or part-time dietitians at all of the national branches. My responsibilities include Home visits, patient education, clinical monitoring of enteral and parenteral nutrition support clients, nutrition support team leader, reimbursement, and sales support.

During your career, what do you consider to have been your greatest learning opportunities?

I have had the pleasure of working with outstanding dietitians including Alicia Mandel, Sue Locke, Suzanne Thompson and Karen Glover that helped me develop my clinical skills over the past few years. They have encouraged me to be the best clinical dietitian and become certified in the area I love, nutrition support.

For students entering dietetics, what skills do you recommend they develop to prepare for the competitive work environment?

Dietetics is a field of knowledge. I encourage students to continue to read and learn throughout their careers. Also, be aggressive! Don’t be satisfied with the same mundane responsibilities. Open opportunities for yourself and for other dietitians to follow.

With many of our members combining Home and outside work responsibilities, what strategies have you used to successfully manage the time demands?

I prioritize my responsibilities. I may not make every school activity or every business meeting, but I am there for the important ones. I try to focus my activities on the areas I enjoy the most with my family and my career.

What do you see for the future of our profession?

I strongly believe you make Career Opportunities for yourself. Dietetics is a vital, growing field open to creativity and opportunity…the possibilities are endless.