Maggie Guerrero, APRN, is a board-certified nurse practitioner who cares for patients with many different colorectal diagnoses, ranging from benign conditions to cancer. She works closely with the colorectal team to provide support and education to patients, as well as to manage their individualized needs in the pre-operative and post-operative setting. She also provides medical management to patients for certain colorectal issues that might not require surgery, such as certain cases of diverticulitis and some anorectal disorders.
Many patients arrive at a colorectal specialist’s clinic with preconceived ideas about their condition based on what they have read online or have heard from friends and family members. Guerrero says it is very important to make sure that they leave with accurate information relevant to their personal situation.
“Certain diagnoses and treatment processes can be very overwhelming for patients and their caregivers,” she says. “It’s important to listen to what their specific concerns are and take time to address them.”
Guerrero worked for many years as an oncology nurse and as a traveling nurse in different hospitals throughout the country. She was a nurse coordinator in Yale Medicine Colon and Rectal surgery for several years before she decided to attend graduate school to become an advanced practice registered nurse. “I really wanted to participate in the care of patients as an advanced practice provider. My additional education has enabled me to manage and guide patients through their course,” she says.
Depending on the patient’s condition, she may see them for a day, weeks, months, or years. The relationships that develop over time are priceless, she says. “It is important that our patients know that they can reach out to their colorectal team at any time, and we will be there to support them.”
