Angela Hicks

Level 1 trauma hospital.

• Supported stabilization of Level 1 and Level 2 trauma patients with multi-system organ failure, penetrating trauma, and severe orthopedic injuries.
• Provided chest compressions and assisted with airway support during medical and trauma codes under ACLS/BLS protocols.
• Applied complex splints, helped with fracture reductions, and completed sterile wound irrigation and dressing changes.
• Collected 12-lead EKGs, gathered laboratory specimens, and assisted with bedside ultrasound procedures.
• Used therapeutic communication and verbal de-escalation to manage acute psychosis, suicidal ideation, and substance-induced agitation, supporting patient safety.
• Completed regular safety checks and 1:1 observation for high-risk patients in ligature-free, secure settings to reduce self-harm risk.
• Worked with psychiatric evaluators and security teams during safe physical holds or restraints to support patient and staff safety.
• Monitored changes in affect, behavior, and orientation for patients awaiting inpatient psychiatric placement, assisting nursing staff.

• Performed head-to-toe physical assessments on adult, and geriatric populations in acute care settings.
• Monitored and interpreted vital signs, identifying and reporting significant deviations to the primary RN or clinical instructor.
• Assessed and documented patient neurological, cardiovascular, respiratory, and GI/GU status according to facility protocols.
• Safely administered oral, topical, subcutaneous, and intramuscular medications following the "Six Rights" of medication administration.
• Calculated precise drug dosages for high-alert medications and pediatric patients.
• Assisted with IV therapy management, including priming tubing, monitoring infusion sites for phlebitis or infiltration, and secondary (piggyback) administrations.
• Demonstrated proficiency in sterile technique while performing wound care, dressing changes, and urinary catheter insertions.
• Managed specialized equipment including Alaris pumps, PCA pumps, feeding tubes (NG/OG/PEG), and tracheostomy care.
• Executed tracheostomy suctioning and provided meticulous site care to prevent infection.
• Prioritized care for multiple patient assignments in high-acuity environments
• Participated in interdisciplinary rounds, collaborating with physicians, physical therapists, and social workers to refine discharge plans.
• Recognized early signs of patient deterioration and initiated appropriate nursing interventions.

• Daily Living Support: Delivered bedside care for homebound patients, including bathing, dressing, grooming, and oral hygiene, ensuring patient dignity and independence while also providing house cleaning and shopping assistance.
• Mobility & Safety: Facilitated safe patient transfers using gait belts and performed passive range-of-motion exercises, contributing to prevention of contractures and pressure sores.
• Nutrition: Assisted with meal preparation tailored to specific dietary restrictions, including low-sodium, diabetic, and thickened liquids, promoting optimal health and nutrition.
• Medication Reminders: Provided timely medication reminders to ensure strict adherence to prescribed regimens.
• Documentation: Maintained accurate daily logs of patient intake/output, behavioral changes, and care provided in compliance with state regulations.