Ailene Nielsen, APRN,CNP

Ailene “Beanie” Nielsen, APRN, is a cardiology advanced practice registered nurse at Essentia Health–Brainerd. She cares for adults with a wide range of heart conditions, from new symptoms to long-term heart disease. She has many years of experience working with patients in clinic and in cardiac catheterization lab settings.

Beanie chose cardiology because it allows her to support patients during emergencies as well as over many years. She pays close attention to both test results and how patients are feeling day to day. During visits, she explains heart conditions and treatment options in clear, simple language. She checks that patients understand their medicines and care plans, and she welcomes questions from patients and their families. Her goal is for each visit to feel calm, respectful, and efficient.

Before joining Essentia Health, Beanie practiced cardiology in Omaha, Nebraska, and cared for patients in outreach clinics across Nebraska and southwest Iowa. Her family has spent more than 50 years in the Brainerd Lakes area, and she has seen the region’s growing access to specialized heart care. She is proud to be part of a team that brings advanced cardiovascular services closer to home.

Outside of work, Beanie enjoys spending time outdoors, including hiking, kayaking, running, and snowshoeing. She and her husband have one son. She is also an animal lover with a special fondness for Great Danes.