Carol Shepherd
Belsano,PA
Summary
Compassionate healthcare professional focused on patient-centered care and interdisciplinary collaboration. Proven ability to implement effective care plans and optimize team performance, driving improved patient outcomes and fostering a supportive environment.
Dynamic nursing leader with a proven track record in patient care management, compliance, and quality improvement. Expertise in developing effective care plans and mentoring staff, ensuring optimal patient outcomes and operational efficiency.
Nursing professional with comprehensive background in managing clinical operations and enhancing patient care. Proven track record of fostering collaborative team environments and achieving high standards in healthcare delivery. Reliable and adaptable, consistently meeting changing needs and priorities with focus on quality care.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Director of Nursing
Haida Nursing and Rehabilitation
Hastings, PA
03.2022 - Current
- Developed and implemented patient care plans in collaboration with nursing staff.
- Ensured compliance with healthcare regulations and quality standards for patient safety.
- Coordinated staff schedules to optimize resource allocation and enhance operational efficiency.
- Mentored nursing staff to promote professional development and improve team performance.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations to assess staff competencies and identify training needs.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to enhance patient outcomes through integrated care approaches.
- Participated in management team meetings to discuss resident status, census changes, and resident complaints or concerns.
- Collaborated with staff, management, and external groups to coordinate patient care.
- Performed rounds to observe care and interview staff, residents, and families.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop efficient care strategies tailored to individual patient needs.
- Contributed to the accreditation process by maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations for nursing standards.
- Served as a role model for nursing staff by demonstrating exceptional clinical skills, ethical behavior, and commitment to continuous learning.
- Coordinated with physicians on complex cases, ensuring seamless communication among healthcare professionals involved in patient care.
- Provided educational resources on disease prevention and health maintenance topics to help patients make informed decisions about their care.
- Prepared and reviewed infection control surveillance reports to identify trends and develop effective actions to control and prevent infections.
- Monitored and inspected staff processes to eliminate hazards posed for both residents and staff while ensuring continuous compliance with regulations.
- Developed and updated policies and procedures, maintaining compliance with guidelines relating to HIPAA, benefits administration and general liability.
Hospice Registered Nurse Case Manager
Bethlen Hospice
Ligonier, PA
03.2020 - 02.2022
- Developed personalized care plans for patients, ensuring comprehensive and compassionate end-of-life support.
- Coordinated multidisciplinary team meetings to assess patient needs and optimize care strategies.
- Educated families on hospice services, providing emotional support and resources during difficult transitions.
- Monitored patient progress, adjusting care plans based on evolving health conditions and feedback.
- Conducted regular home visits to evaluate patient conditions and ensure adherence to established care plans.
- Provided emotional support to patients and their families during the end-of-life process, promoting dignity and comfort.
- Developed and implemented individualized care plan for each hospice patient while following physician instructions.
Registered Nurse Supervisor
Cambria Care Center
Ebensburg, PA
09.2018 - 02.2020
- Supervised nursing staff to ensure adherence to best practices and quality care standards.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement patient care plans.
- Developed and enforced protocols for medication administration and safety compliance.
- Conducted performance evaluations and provided mentorship to nursing personnel.
- Developed strong rapport with patients and families, providing emotional support during challenging situations.
Director of Nursing
Cambria Care Center
Ebensburg, PA
07.2014 - 09.2018
- Developed and implemented nursing policies to enhance patient care standards.
- Led nursing staff training programs to improve clinical competencies and patient outcomes.
- Analyzed patient care metrics to identify areas for operational improvement.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to optimize workflow efficiency in nursing departments.
- Supervised daily operations of nursing staff, ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations.
- Established quality assurance protocols that enhanced patient safety measures across the facility.
- Directed recruitment and retention strategies for nursing personnel, fostering a positive work environment.
- Oversaw and approved recruitment, hiring and orientation of new nursing staff.
- Monitored and evaluated nursing staff performance, providing feedback and guidance to support standards of care.
- Established and monitored infection control programs to provide safe, sanitary environment to prevent transmission of disease and infection.
- Facilitated continuing education and training programs to drive staff competency and professional development.
- Identified department issues to recommend corrective actions.
Education
Associate of Science - Nursing
Mount Aloysius
Loretto, PA12-1995
High School Diploma -
Blacklick Valley High School
Nanty Glo, PA05-1982
Skills
- Nursing management
- Case management
- Capital budget management
- Patient education
- Care coordination
- Quality improvement
- Long-term care
- Clinical care oversight
- Clinical documentation
- Nurse education and training
- Leadership and guidance
- Strong work ethic
- Direct patient care
- Disease control
- Clinical leadership
Timeline
Assistant Director of Nursing
Haida Nursing and Rehabilitation
03.2022 - Current
Hospice Registered Nurse Case Manager
Bethlen Hospice
03.2020 - 02.2022
Registered Nurse Supervisor
Cambria Care Center
09.2018 - 02.2020
Director of Nursing
Cambria Care Center
07.2014 - 09.2018
Associate of Science - Nursing
Mount Aloysius
High School Diploma -
Blacklick Valley High School