Ashleigh Lara
Jacksonville,FL
Summary
Results-driven Cath Lab Registered Nurse recognized for exceptional productivity and efficient task execution. Expertise in peripheral-vascular care, emergency response, and patient education. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills enhance patient outcomes and foster collaboration within healthcare teams. Committed to advancing clinical practices and improving patient care standards.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Cath Lab Registered Nurse
SS Vascular
San Diego, CA
08.2023 - 01.2025
- Assessed patients' medical histories and physical conditions prior to procedures.
- Performed pre-operative patient preparation and education of the procedure.
- Prepared patients for procedures such as angio/venograms, stents, IVC filters, percutaneous and open AV fistula creations, ligations, and peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion, exchange, or removal.
- Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
- Administered medications as prescribed by physicians, including conscious sedation.
- Administered medications during procedures to reduce problems from anxiety, blood pressure, and other conditions.
- Tracked oxygenation, blood pressure and heart rate during procedures.
- Maintained accurate records of all patient care activities performed in the Cath Lab.
- Promoted a culture of safety by adhering to universal precautions guidelines during all phases of patient care.
- Assessed patients before and after procedures and offered specialized care targeted on individual needs to achieve optimal recoveries.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams involved in the delivery of quality patient care services.
- Facilitated communication between patients, families and healthcare providers concerning diagnosis, treatments options available through cath lab services.
- Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
- Responded to emergencies with speed, expertise, and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support, and life-saving interventions.
- Actively participated in research projects focused on improving outcomes related to cath lab procedures.
- Collected blood or tissue samples from patients for lab work.
- Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnoses using iSTAT and Piccolo systems.
- Performed quality control tests on laboratory equipment and supplies to ensure accuracy of results.
- Participated in, and maintained the records required for CLIA licensure and waivers.
- Served as a liaison between Nursing Department and other departments within the facility.
- Provided leadership, coaching, and mentoring to a team of RNs, LPNs, and MAs.
- Conducted staff orientation and provided ongoing education for existing team members on best practices related to Cath Lab procedures.
- Received and investigated complaints from families, patients and clinical staff, devising solutions to multifaceted challenges.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory standards related to infection control, safety protocols, clinical documentation and other applicable policies.
- Identified opportunities for improvement within the Cath Lab setting and developed strategies for implementation.
- Assessed staff workflows to create reports on Medicare Quality Improvement Measures.
- Assessed, developed, and assisted in the execution of workflows to meet the practice's required decile score for the MIPS Quality Measures.
- Utilized various software and tools to streamline processes and optimize performance.
- Managed inventory levels across multiple clinical locations, ensuring optimal stock quantities, including the medications and supplies needed by the anesthesiologist.
- Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
Professional Tutor - Nursing/Health Science Specialist
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Jacksonvile, FL
10.2022 - 07.2023
- Explained difficult concepts in a way that was understandable to students at all levels.
- Identified areas where additional assistance is needed and provided resources accordingly.
- Encouraged critical thinking skills through problem solving tasks.
- Collaborated with professors and administrators to ensure effective implementation of tutoring strategies.
- Encouraged positive study habits such as goal setting, time management, and organization skills.
- Adapted teaching methods according to each student's unique needs.
- Aided students in computer laboratories and other out-of-classroom academic environments.
- Integrated technology into tutoring sessions to enhance learning experiences.
- Utilized online platforms and resources to conduct virtual tutoring sessions.
- Built student self-confidence by working through stages of study concepts and using positive reinforcement techniques.
- Recommended supplementary books, software, and other learning materials.
- Created engaging learning materials and exercises to facilitate understanding and retention.
- Established a positive rapport with students by providing encouragement throughout the learning process.
- Managed inventory and supplies to ensure materials were available when needed.
- Conducted routine maintenance and repairs on mechanical systems and industrial equipment.
- Achieved cost-savings by developing functional solutions to problems.
LVN/Charge Nurse
Fairfax Pediatric Associates
Fairfax, VA
04.2010 - 06.2012
- Monitored vital signs, recorded observations, and reported changes to physicians or nurses in charge.
- Administered prescribed medications and vaccinations, noting times and amounts on patients' charts.
- Educated patients about disease prevention methods and healthy lifestyle choices.
- Supervised LVNs and other staff members in providing quality patient care services.
- Facilitated communication between physicians, family members, hospital personnel, and other health professionals involved in a patient's care.
- Collected blood, urine or sputum from patients to perform routine laboratory tests.
- Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
- Answered patient calls, identified issues and determined how best to provide assistance within parameters established by facility and supervisor.
- Participated in regular meetings with interdisciplinary teams to discuss best practices for improving clinical outcomes.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Audited patient charts in real-time, verifying accuracy and completion of information.
- Precepted new staff nurses to provide education on company policies and procedures, patient care skills, medical procedures and techniques, and patient assessments and interventions.
- Managed inventory and supplies to ensure materials were available when needed.
- Provided support and guidance to colleagues to maintain a collaborative work environment.
- Distributed work assignments to RNs, LPNs, and MAs, guided work, and delivered training to promote proper care standards for patients.
- Delegated tasks appropriately among staff members according to their qualifications.
- Managed staffing levels within the unit while ensuring optimal levels of patient care.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Florida State College At Jacksonville
Jacksonville08-2025
Associate of Science - Nursing
Florida State College At Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL05-2023
Vocational Nursing Diploma -
Santa Barbara City College
Santa Maria, CA03-2009
High School Diploma -
Lompoc Senior High School
Lompoc, CA06-2002
Skills
- Patient care
- Intravenous therapy
- Procedural sedation
- Vascular Access Management
- Medical device operation
- Procedure support
- Nursing work delegation
- Supply maintenance
- Quality improvement
- Radiation safety protocols
Certification
- BLS and ACLS Certification
- Florida/California RN Licensure
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Cath Lab Registered Nurse
SS Vascular
08.2023 - 01.2025
Professional Tutor - Nursing/Health Science Specialist
Florida State College at Jacksonville
10.2022 - 07.2023
LVN/Charge Nurse
Fairfax Pediatric Associates
04.2010 - 06.2012
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Florida State College At Jacksonville
Associate of Science - Nursing
Florida State College At Jacksonville
Vocational Nursing Diploma -
Santa Barbara City College
High School Diploma -
Lompoc Senior High School