While nurses play a crucial role in the nation’s healthcare system, the demands of this work can prove discouraging for many. Angela D. Blanchard is one nursing professional who has overcome these challenges to distinguish herself in her field.
By focusing on self-improvement and promoting health knowledge across her community, Blanchard has built a career and legacy of outreach. As a nurse consultant, she now leads a tuberculosis program across the entire state of Louisiana. For her dedication and accomplishments, Blanchard has been added to the distinguished Marquis Who’s Who listing of noteworthy professionals.
Early Career Developments
Blanchard first developed her skills in nursing when she obtained a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of Southwestern Louisiana, now known as the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, in 1998. Following this, she acquired certification as a registered nurse and began working in a clinical setting.
During her first professional role as a nurse, Blanchard worked on a busy floor of a hospital. As a new nurse and pregnant, she struggled with the high demands of the job. During this time, personal health issues prompted Blanchard to change her work environment, and she transitioned to home health.
Helping Mothers as a Lactation Consultant
Blanchard found that the secluded nature of home health made it difficult for her to achieve the desired knowledge and skill growth. This compelled her to seek a position with a gynecology unit at a women’s hospital.
Working directly with new mothers inspired Blanchard. “I fell in love with lactation, helping moms breastfeed and seeing that they were always so grateful,” she states.
Blanchard became a certified lactation consultant and utilized her knowledge and passion for helping mothers who struggle with postpartum care. This dedication to helping others and promoting health knowledge would prove foundational to the rest of her career.
Entering the Spheres of Public Health
When she started her own family, Blanchard decided that she required a job that would allow her to spend more time with her children. Though it was a difficult decision, she left her position at the women’s hospital and sought opportunities in public health.
In 2006, Blanchard joined the public health unit with the LA Department of Health’s Office of Public Health. There, she contributed to various tuberculosis-related programs, immunizations, reproductive health, sexually transmitted diseases, and children’s special health services.
In 2013, Blanchard focused her expertise on addressing tuberculosis, advancing to the role of regional tuberculosis nurse.
Expertise in Tuberculosis Control
Since 2018, Blanchard has served as a nurse consultant for the Louisiana Department of Public Health Tuberculosis Control Program. Her duties in this position involve providing comprehensive education to public health nurses across the state, designing and delivering training modules, providing training and presentations through online platforms, and more.
Blanchard’s expertise and knowledge in addressing the public health threat of tuberculosis have been recognized by organizations and officials across Louisiana. She actively participates in discussions as a member of the National Tuberculosis Coalition of America and the National Tuberculosis Nurse Coalition.
Speaking Out and Promoting Health Knowledge
Throughout her career, Blanchard has succeeded by taking the extra time and measures to educate herself. Due to the fast-paced nature of her industry, opportunities for in-depth learning and skill acquisition were not always readily available.
“I basically had to teach myself every aspect of my big interests,” Blanchard says.
For other healthcare professionals, Blanchard dedicates her time to providing them with opportunities to achieve the knowledge for success. She advises struggling healthcare workers not to give up or let organizational structures bar them from meeting their goals.
From lactation consulting to promoting tuberculosis prevention, Blanchard has devoted her career to promoting knowledge that allows others to lead better, healthier lives. As she continues her efforts as a nursing consultant, her work touches the lives of many across Louisiana.
