Registered Nurse (RN) in Pre Admission Testing Department
St. Mary Corwin Pre Admission Testing (PAT)
Pueblo, CO
02.2022 - 11.2025
- Conducted comprehensive and focused phone and in-person pre-procedure patient assessments for all patients scheduled for Same Day / Short Stay surgical procedures including medication, medical history, and surgical history reviews. Coordinated data receipt from other specialists and facilities in a timely manner. Worked seamlessly with internal and external customers as well as patients and family members.
- Provided thorough and individualized pre-, intra-, and post-procedure teaching to patients and family members regarding the surgical process related to the patient’s specific issues/needs.
- Ensured that all required documentation pre-admission testing and assessments were reviewed with the Anesthesiologist and recorded completely and in real-time for the safety of the patient utilizing EPIC Software.
- Performed intravenous access and initiated maintenance IV’s for patients for pre-op patients and performed lab draws and EKGs.
- Assessed and monitored patients pre- and post-procedure and ensured patient safety with regard to monitoring of vital signs, effects of sedation, and teaching regarding surgical procedure and pre- and post-op care and follow-up for each patient to ensure safe pre-, intra-, and post-op care and discharge experience for patient and family members.
- Oriented new-hires in all capacities and cross-trained staff from other areas. Functioned as a strong resource person for several areas.
- Maintained BLS, PALS, and ACLS certifications and all ongoing education in a timely manner.
- Willingly floated to other areas to assist in patient care as needed including surgical pre-admission interviews, pre-op admission, post-operative care, interventional radiology, etc.
- Conducted pre-admission assessments to ensure patient readiness for surgical procedures.
- Educated patients on pre-operative procedures, medication management, and recovery expectations.
- Documented patient interactions accurately in electronic health records for compliance and continuity of care.
- Trained new nursing staff on procedural protocols and best practices within pre-admission testing unit.
- Enhanced patient satisfaction by providing compassionate, holistic nursing care that addressed physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
- Skillfully managed challenging patient situations using de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention strategies, and therapeutic communication skills.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in nursing care and emerging trends in healthcare delivery.
- Promoted a culture of safety within the healthcare facility by participating in quality improvement initiatives, identifying potential hazards, and advocating for best practices in nursing care delivery.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- Promoted patient and family comfort during challenging recoveries to enhance healing and eliminate non-compliance problems.
- Facilitated therapeutic communication, conflict resolution and crisis intervention by redirecting negative behaviors and helping patients regain or improve coping abilities.
- Led teams in driving successful patient outcomes by prioritizing standard of care and best practices.
- Investigated and resolved issues affecting hospital operations and patient care.
- Conducted thorough pre-admission assessments to ensure patient readiness for surgical procedures.
- Educated patients on pre-operative instructions, enhancing understanding and compliance.
- Monitored vital signs and documented patient progress in electronic health records accurately.
- Provided support during diagnostic tests, ensuring patient comfort and safety throughout procedures.
- Trained new staff on standard operating procedures, fostering a culture of excellence in patient care.
- Led quality improvement initiatives, streamlining processes to enhance operational efficiency within PAT department.
- Prevented the spread of infections by consistently adhering to strict infection control protocols and educating patients on proper hygiene practices.
- Assisted in the training and mentorship of new nursing staff members, contributing to a positive work environment and high-quality patient care.
- Conducted thorough patient assessments to identify changes in condition, promptly notifying physicians and initiating appropriate interventions when necessary.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
- Observed and documented patient factors such as diets, physical activity levels, and behaviors to understand conditions and effectively modify treatment plans.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Equipped patients with tools and knowledge needed for speedy and sustained recovery.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans for complex patients with multiple comorbidities.