Dedicated professional with clinical practicum experience and passion for delivering quality healthcare. Skilled at establishing care plans and educating patients and families. Offering caring bedside manner and a patient-centric focus.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Certified Health Coach
Mission: Healthy People, Inc.
01.2011 - Current
Virtual Weight and wellness coaching
Virtual Business coaching
Skills:
Provided individual and group health coaching sessions to clients virtually.
Facilitated nutrition, lifestyle, weightloss and stress management workshops.
Assessed clients' current health status by conducting comprehensive health histories and lifestyle assessments.
Coached clients on creating sustainable behaviors through goal setting and positive reinforcement techniques.
Evaluated progress towards achieving health-related goals through regular follow-up meetings with clients.
Utilized motivational interviewing techniques to encourage behavior change among reluctant participants.
Presented health education talks at training workshops and conferences.
Conducted one-on-one meetings with medical practices for partnership recruitment.
Founded and grew two social media groups, one to over 8,000 members, and the other to over 1,000.
Utilized Canva to create social media marketing resources, including PowerPoint presentations.
Utilized PowerPoint to present educational materials.
Demonstrated proficiency in creating and leading online educational webinars with Zoom.
Demonstrated leadership skills in leading a team of over 200 health coaches.
Developed and led several online health challenges.th challenges.
Built relationships with clients, partners and vendors to facilitate successful partnerships.
Created presentations on the company's services, products, pricing plans and marketing campaigns.
Planned and implemented marketing campaigns using various channels such as print media, digital platforms.
Maintained a database of contacts from prospective clients for future follow-ups.
Used excellent verbal skills to engage customers in conversation and effectively determine needs and requirements.
Drove sales of company products and services by meeting with customers using strategic and organized approach.
Recruited and trained new coaches to optimize profitability and impact.
Reduced process lags by training employees on best practices and protocols.
Posed as models for advertising, artistic creation and display of goods.
Developed and delivered public speaking presentations to large and small audiences.
Researched and wrote content for speeches, including facts, figures, stories, jokes, quotations, and anecdotes.
Created customized presentations tailored to specific audiences and events.
Created original scripts for video productions used in marketing campaigns.
Prepared PowerPoint slides that accurately represented the messages being shared during talks.
Spoke about personal life experiences to inspire, motivate and benefit listeners.
Participated in trade shows representing the company's products or services through public speaking engagements.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
Altamonte Pediatric Associates
01.2006 - 01.2010
Took the initiative to partner with co-worker to develop and implement a weight management program for kids.
Implemented recommendations to educate families on healthy habits and mindsets surrounding weight
Assessed physical and mental health of pediatric patients.
Provided preventive care services such as immunizations, screenings, and health counseling.
Educated parents on proper nutrition, hygiene, and disease prevention for their children.
Diagnosed common childhood illnesses such as colds and flu.
Prescribed medications according to established protocols and reviewed medication dosages with parents or guardians.
Developed relationships with families through compassionate communication and care coordination.
Participated in regular team meetings to discuss new treatments or approaches for managing chronic conditions in pediatric patients.
Maintained up-to-date knowledge of advances in pediatric medicine by attending conferences and seminars.
Reviewed laboratory results and imaging studies to determine appropriate course of action for each patient.
Administered vaccines according to current vaccination schedules.
Coordinated referrals for specialty care when needed.
Advised parents about available resources that can assist them in caring for their child's medical condition.
Analyzed childhood growth patterns and infant and children progress.
Built trust and rapport with patients by listening to concerns, advocating for wellness and educating on acute and chronic health issues.
Graduate Research Assistant
University of Central Florida
01.2004 - 01.2006
Supported professor in development of a curriculum for a Masters in Nursing Education
Collected and recorded data for research done by professors.
Staff nurse
Ambulatory Infusion & Surgical Center
01.2003 - 01.2006
Administered blood transfusions and chemotherapy.
Assessed and managed the needs of patients having outpatient surgery.
Maintained accurate records of patient progress notes, medications administered and other relevant data.
Identified potential problems or issues that may arise during treatment, such as drug interactions or allergies, and provided appropriate interventions when necessary.
Assisted physicians with procedures as requested.
Provided emotional support to family members during difficult times or end-of-life situations.
Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining quality standards of care.
Implemented infection control measures to reduce the spread of contagious diseases.
Adhered to strict confidentiality policies when dealing with sensitive information.
Provided direct patient care including wound dressing, administering medication and IV therapy.
Monitored vital signs and documented changes in a timely manner.
Conducted patient education on medical treatments and procedures.
Performed diagnostic tests such as blood draws and urinalysis.
Monitored patient vitals post-surgery, managed medical equipment, and administered medications and IVs.
Administered intravenous medications, including chemotherapy, and fluids to patients according to physician orders.
Monitored patient vital signs, hydration levels, and infusion sites for any adverse reactions or complications.
Provided patient education on the use of IV therapy and potential side effects.
Assisted in the preparation of sterile supplies and equipment used during procedures.
Maintained accurate records of all treatments administered and reported any changes in a patient's condition to physicians.
Performed venipuncture procedures when necessary for accessing central lines or port catheters.
Coordinated with pharmacies for compounding medications specific to individual needs of patients requiring infusions.
Conducted regular assessments on patients receiving infusions to ensure safety standards were met.
Provided guidance and direction to less experienced colleagues regarding best practices for administering infusions safely.
Responded quickly and efficiently to emergency situations that occurred during an infusion procedure.
Performed blood and blood product transfusions and intravenous infusions to address patient symptoms or underlying causes.
Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
Triage/Chemotherapy nurse
Gynecologic Oncology
01.2000 - 01.2003
Utilized clinical skills to identify lab results and appropriate interventions through assessment of needs, education, or communication with physician.
Demonstrated proficiency in securing venous access for chemotherapy.
Demonstrated competence in accessing and maintaining central venous access ports.
Maintained and appropriately utilized other venous access devices, such as PICC lines.
Mixed chemotherapy according to physician orders.
Administered chemotherapeutic agents in accordance with physician orders, monitoring vital signs before, during, and after treatment.
Provided education and support to patients and families regarding the effects of cancer and its treatments.
Monitored patient progress throughout the course of therapy, making adjustments as needed.
Instructed family members on how to administer medications at home when necessary.
Provided emotional support to patients and their families dealing with difficult diagnoses or life changes due to cancer treatment.
Implemented protocols for safe handling of hazardous materials used in the administration of chemotherapy drugs.
Responded promptly and appropriately in emergency situations where a patient is experiencing adverse reactions from chemo drugs.
Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
Assessed patients' health condition and determined the level of care needed.
Evaluated patient response to treatments and reported any adverse reactions promptly to attending physician.
Home Care nurse
Hospice
01.1999 - 01.2000
Conducted home visits regularly to assess patient's condition and provide necessary interventions.
Listened to patients and loved ones, offering emotional support, and kindness to help with end-of-life transition.
Evaluated and intervened to ensure patient comfort.
Charge Nurse
Oncology
01.1999 - 01.2000
Utilized an understanding of patient acuity to create patient assignments
Graduate Nurse Preceptor
Oncology
01.1998 - 01.2000
Provided guidance and support to new nurses during their orientation period.
Assisted in the development of competency-based skills checklists for newly hired nursing staff.
Conducted performance evaluations for preceptees on a regular basis.
Instructed preceptees on hospital policies and procedures, as well as professional standards of practice.
Mentored preceptees by modeling effective communication techniques with patients, families, and other healthcare professionals.
Provided feedback to preceptees regarding their clinical decision making abilities.
Monitored the safety of patients during hands-on training sessions conducted with preceptees.
Actively listened to questions posed by the preceptee in order to provide clear explanations or resources.
Staff Nurse
Oncology
01.1998 - 01.2000
Maintained accurate records of patient progress notes, medications administered and other relevant data.
Demonstrated effective communication skills while interacting with patients, families, physicians and other healthcare staff members.
Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining quality standards of care.
Monitored vital signs and documented changes in a timely manner.
Provided direct patient care including wound dressing, administering medication and IV therapy.
Conducted patient education on medical treatments and procedures.
Evaluated the effectiveness of nursing interventions and modified plans as needed.
Coordinated care with charge nurse and other staff through daily communication.
Facilitated transition to home care by providing patients with continued care information and discharge instructions.
Treated and monitored wounds using liquid skin, sutures, and bandages.
Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
Nursing Course Facilitator
Florida Hospital College of Health Sciences
01.2006
BSN Course: Community Health
BSN Course: Health Assessment
Supported primary professor as needed
Facilitated online discussions among students
Graded papers and provided feedback
Education
Masters of Science in Nursing - Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
01.2006
Certificate of Health Professional Education -
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
01.2005
Bachelor of Science in Nursing -
Southern Adventist University
Orlando, FL
01.1998
Associate of Science in Nursing -
Southern Adventist University
01.1997
Skills
Communication skills
Coaching
Motivational interviewing techniques
Social media marketing
Canva
Powerpoint
Excel
Zoom
Microsoft Word
Online educational webinars
Public speaking
Customer service
Leadership skills
Educational Materials Development
Behavior Modification Techniques
Conflict resolution techniques
Motivational Interviewing
Public Speaking
Individual and group coaching
Online Marketing
Preventive Care
Health and wellness expert
Patient Examination
Patient Education
Vaccination Administration
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnostic Testing
Prescribing medications
Lab result evaluation
Experienced preceptor
FLUENT IN English, Portuguese, and Spanish
Treatment Plan Development
Patient Referrals
Interpersonal and written communication
Chemotherapy drug administration
Diagnostic test interpretation
Cancer patient management
Emotional Support
Clinical Documentation
Sales
Marketing
Affiliations
Obesity Medicine Association, 2024
Central Florida Advanced Nursing Practice Council, 2012-2019
National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, 2004-2011
Central Florida Pediatric Society, 2006-2010
Sigma Theta Tau, 2005-2006
Phi Kappa Phi, 2004-2005
Oncology Nursing Society, 2000-2003
Licensure
FL - Registered Nurse | 1998-present
FL - Advanced Practice Registered Nurse | 2006-2020
Certification
Center for Obesity Prevention & Education Certified Health Coach, 2012-present
Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, 2006-2022
Oncology Certified Nurse, 2000-2006
Chemotherapy administration, 1998-2006
Mediport access and maintenance, 1998-2006
Presentations and Publications
Alvarenga, A. (2016). The Business of Health Coaching for Nurses. Presented at National Nurses in Business Association Conference.
Alvarenga, A. (2015). Weight Considerations: How to choose the best weight-loss program for your practice. Chiropractice Economics, 61:21-22.
Alvarenga, A., Pecoraro, J. (2012). Bridge the Gap Between Evidence Based Recommendations and Actual Practice: Health Coaching. Central Florida Advanced Practice Nurse Council, speaker for monthly association meeting.
Honors & Awards
Integrated Presidential Director, 2021
Dean’s Council Graduate Student Representative, 2005-2006
Advanced Education Traineeship Award, 2004-2005
Provost Fellowship Award, 2004
Magna Cum Laude graduate, 1997 & 1998
Community Service
Bible Study Instructor, Hospital Church, 2014-present
Pathfinder Staff, 2022-2023
Health Committee member, Spring Meadows SDA Church, 2017-2019
Walking Challenge Coordinator, Spring Meadows SDA Church, 2018
Paper Crafts Instructor, Forest Lake SDA church, 2007-2010
Bible Study Instructor, Forest Lake SDA church, 2006-2010
Mission trip to Honduras, 2006
Promotion of breastfeeding exclusivity community project, 2005
Volunteer craft instructor for Pathfinders, Apopka Highland SDA Church, 2005
Cradle Roll instructor, Apopka Highland SDA church, 2004-2005
Social Committee member, Apopka Highland SDA Church, 2003-2005
Church Choir Co-director, Apopka Highland SDA Church, 2001-2003
Health Committee member, Apopka Highland SDA church, 2001-2003
ROSE Ovarian cancer support group volunteer, 2000-2002