Caroline G. Howell
Dallas,TX
Summary
Experienced healthcare professional skilled in patient care, critical thinking, and communication. Strong focus on team collaboration and achieving optimal patient outcomes. Reliable and adaptable, ensuring efficient and compassionate care in dynamic environments. Equipped with expertise in medical procedures, patient assessments, and care coordination.
Overview
1
1
Certification
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Registered Nurse, Pediatric Cardiac ICU
Children's Medical Center of Dallas
Dallas, TX
11.2024 - Current
- Managed and cared for pediatric patients in the Cardiovascular ICU with in depth knowledge of ventricular assist devices (VAD), complete renal replacement therapy (CRRT) , and extracorpeal membrane oygenation (ECMO).
- Specialized in the care for pediatric patients with congenital heart defects, applying in- depth knowledge of various cardiac conditions and surgical approaches
- Provided postoperative management of pediatric cardiac patients,including the monitoring of fluid balance, pain control, ventilation and recovery from anesthesi to support safe and successful recovery from complex cardiac surgeries
- Titrated inotropic and vasoactive medications to maintain strict vital sign perimeters and optimize cardiac output, blood pressure and tissue perfusion
- Monitored vital signs, laboratory values and adequacy of ventilation and notified physicians of clinical changes when escalation is needed
- Responded effectively and timely to emergent situations, demonstrating quick decision- making skills and maintaining composure in high stress environment
- Safety and Quality Nurse role enforcing policies and working towards reducing hospital acquired infections by leading initiations and providing education to other bedside nurses
- Precepted new nurses to help build foundational and fundamental skills
- Resource Nurse responding to emergent situations and providing educaton and being a resource to bedside nurses during the shift
Registered Nurse, Emergency Department
Children’s Medical Center
Dallas, TX
07.2022 - 11.2024
- Delivered comprehensive nursing care to critically ill and injured patients in a fast- paced Level 1 pediatric emergency department
- Performed rapid patient assessments, prioritize care using triage principles and initiating evidence-based interventions
- Collaborated with physicians, Advanced practice providers, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, and multidisciplinary teams during medical emergencies and trauma resuscitations.
- Utilized high levels of problem solving and critical thinking skills to assess and intervene with patients’ needs
- Performed assessments, administered medication, started PIVs through ultrasound, reassessed interventions, and managed patient care according to each patient’s needs.
- Participated on the sepsis committee and trialed a new sepsis tool throughout the unit to initiate antibiotic administration.
- Researched and conducted an evidence-based research project to implement the PAT tool throughout the EMS triage process
- Advocated for safe, individualized care plans for diverse groups of patients and families
- Completed one year nurse residency program
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Baylor University
Waco, TX05-2022
Certification
- Basic Life Support (BLS)
- Advanced Cardiopulmonary Life Support (ACLS)
- Pediatric Advanced Life Suport (PALS)
Timeline
Registered Nurse, Pediatric Cardiac ICU
Children's Medical Center of Dallas
11.2024 - Current
Registered Nurse, Emergency Department
Children’s Medical Center
07.2022 - 11.2024
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Baylor University
HONORS/AWARDS
Daisy Award Nominee (three times)