Cardiology and Neurology Nurse Practitioner at Riverside Eastern Shore Physicians & Surgeons

Onley, VA —Former Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Director, Annette Hempel, RN, CNP is now working at Riverside Eastern Shore Physicians & Surgeons with Neurologist Dr. Robert Paschall and Cardiologist Dr. Lloyd J. Kellam.

After more than a decade in nursing, Hempel went back to school for her Masters of Science Nurse Practitioner (NP) certification. NPs are registered nurses with advanced training in diagnosing and treating illnesses. They prescribe medications, treat illness, and administer physical exams. NPs differ from physicians in that they focus primarily on prevention, wellness, and education.

Hempel started her career with Riverside as a Nurse Extern II in 2000, and after graduating from Eastern Shore Community College, she worked in the ICU, eventually moving up to Nurse Manager in the department. She later became the Director of the ICU, PICC and Nursing Supervisors.

Hempel described her most recent career change, “After a few years of working in ICU, I wanted continue my education. I was torn between an Education degree or Nurse Practitioner as I enjoyed assisting in the education of the Paramedics and student nurses in the ICU but am also passionate about patient-centered care. I decided to focus on patient care; I love helping patients understand their diagnosis, medication and lifestyle changes and how the changes they are about to make will pay off by improving their lives.”

Nick Chuquin, Director of Riverside Medical Group also commented, “Annette is a great addition to our team. Her ICU experience and her specialized Nurse Practitioner skills allow us to provide an enhanced level of patient care. Having her on the team has improved how quickly our patients can access neurological and cardiac care. Annette can take care of many of the patient’s common and chronic needs and free the doctors up for complex problem-solving.”

Hempel remarked, “My collaboration with Dr. Kellam and Dr. Paschall is very rewarding. In my evaluation of the patient, I listen for lifestyle factors and look for trends that can be addressed to help the patient live a healthier, happier life.”

Hempel has lived on the Shore for more than 30 years and lives in Parksley.