Eve Callahan

Bachelors Degree: BS Family and Consumer Sciences with emphasis in Dietetics/Nutrition, University of Central Arkansas
Additional degrees/certifications: Certified Nutrition Support Dietitian
Internship: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Area of interest: Cancer population and nutrition support.
# of years in dietetic practice: 15  

Current position:

Vanderbilt University Medical Center working with the nutrition support team and I have the opportunity to work as a research assistant for several studies.  My role on the nutrition support team involves nutrition care plan development, implementation and evaluation of Malnutrition Clinic patients (many requiring long term PN).   

How has your career evolved as a dietitian?

My career is ever evolving and I am always learning.  I have learned in my career to "step up to the plate", you can do most anything you set your mind to.  In my current position and previous positions, I have had the opportunity to learn various skills from DEXA technician to running indirect calorimeters to working as a physician extender; each opportunity you encounter makes you more valuable as a dietitian. I am now noting more dietetic professionals becoming certified in placement of feeding tubes and clinical dietitians are becoming more involved in global physical assessments, which is the direction our clinical profession is evolving.  The key is to stay current on research that applies to your practice.  

What is the most important skill set you use in your position?

Effective communication is one of the important skills that I utilize in my position.  I work closely with multi-disciplinary nutrition support team members, primary care physicians, patients and family members, home infusion companies, home health companies to assure the care plan is implemented and followed safely.   

What do you enjoy most about being a dietitian?

Patient interaction--watching someone improve and attain personal goals.   

Of all the client/patient encounters that you've had, which one was the most challenging and rewarding?

I have always enjoyed working with Cancer patients and many of these patients faced the need for stem cell or bone marrow transplantation.  The rigorous treatments these patients encounter and the treatment related side effects made this patient population challenging, then watching these same patients improve is rewarding beyond words.  

Outside of work, how do you like to spend your time?

Most of my free time is spent with my husband, Todd and 8 month old son, Parker.  I am involved in several Bible Studies at my church (most relate to mothering skills).  Parker and I are involved in a playgroup and love to go strolling.