Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Catherine Duncan

NEW HAVEN,MISSOURI

Summary

With a proven track record at New Haven Care Center, I excel in nursing management and clinical leadership, enhancing care coordination and patient education. My expertise in recruiting and multidisciplinary collaboration has significantly improved long-term care quality, with a focus on innovative nurse training programs and efficient shift scheduling.

Overview

15
15
years of professional experience

Work History

Assistant Director of Nursing

New Haven Care Center
02.2022 - Current
  • 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.
  • Managed nursing schedules and budgets, streamlining processes for cost savings while maintaining high-quality patient care.
  • Contributed to the accreditation process by maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations for nursing standards.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop efficient care strategies tailored to individual patient needs.
  • Assisted in developing policies and procedures for safe medication administration, minimizing errors within the department.
  • Identified department issues to recommend corrective actions.
  • Recruited, hired and trained all staff, providing direct supervision, ongoing staff development and continuing education to employees.

LPN Wound Nurse

New Haven Care Center
05.2020 - 02.2022
  • Streamlined documentation process, ensuring accurate and timely records of all wound assessments and interventions.
  • Enhanced patient comfort during dressing changes by utilizing effective pain management strategies.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge on advancements in wound care products, leading to more effective treatment options for patients.
  • Evaluated and updated patient treatment plans as needed based on response to interventions, ensuring timely adjustments for optimal healing.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary healthcare team to develop comprehensive wound care plans for patients.
  • Served as a resource person within the medical facility regarding complex wounds cases helping providing expert guidance.
  • Educated patients and caregivers on appropriate at-home wound care practices, promoting optimal healing.
  • Increased staff competency through regular in-service trainings on emerging trends in the field of wound management.
  • Reduced infection rates through proper wound care techniques and maintaining a sterile environment.

LPN Charge Nurse

New Haven Care Center
09.2015 - 05.2020
  • Used electronic health records system to document patient information accurately and efficiently.
  • Employed wound care techniques to manage and treat various types of wounds.
  • Executed infection control protocols to prevent the spread of healthcare-associated infections.
  • Coordinated patient care plans by communicating with interdisciplinary team members.
  • Assessed patients' temperature, pulse, and blood pressure and recorded in electronic medical records.
  • Delegated tasks effectively, optimizing staff productivity and maintaining a well-organized nursing unit.
  • Utilized critical thinking skills to make sound clinical decisions in high-pressure situations, minimizing risks and ensuring patient safety.

Certified Medication Technician

New Haven Care Center
10.2012 - 09.2015
  • Maintained accurate records of dispensed medications, ensuring timely refills and proper disposal of expired or unused medications.
  • Participated in regular training sessions to stay up-to-date on current medication guidelines, best practices, and regulatory requirements.
  • Facilitated seamless pharmacy communications by liaising between pharmacists, physicians, and nursing staff regarding prescription orders and clarifications.
  • Assisted in reducing medication errors by diligently cross-checking prescription information with patients'' medical histories.
  • Improved patient care by accurately administering medication as prescribed and closely monitoring for side effects.
  • Supported patients'' well-being by answering questions about their medications and educating them on potential side effects or interactions.
  • Consistently maintained a professional demeanor when interacting with patients, families, coworkers, and supervisors alike, fostering a positive work environment.

Certified Nursing Assistant

New Haven Care Center
05.2011 - 10.2012
  • Collaborated with healthcare team to develop and implement personalized care plans for patients.
  • Provided empathetic support to patients experiencing emotional distress or confusion.
  • Operated patient lift equipment to safely transfer individuals with mobility challenges.
  • Applied infection control techniques, including proper hand hygiene and use of personal protective equipment, to maintain a sterile environment.
  • Monitored vital signs, including blood pressure and heart rate, to identify changes in patient health.
  • Provided high-quality personal care services such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and feeding to ensure patient dignity.
  • Assisted patients with daily living activities for enhanced comfort and wellbeing.
  • Answered call lights and supported patient comfort and safety by adjusting bed rails and equipment.
  • Maintained a clean, safe environment by sanitizing surfaces, changing linens, and disposing of waste properly.

Sunshine Helper- Bed Maker

New Haven Care Center
05.2010 - 05.2011

* Made residents beds on the weekends and cleaned rooms.

Education

Licensed Practical Nursing

Washington School of Practical Nursing
Washington, MO
07-2015

Skills

  • Nursing management
  • Clinical leadership
  • Patient education
  • Care coordination
  • Quality improvement
  • Recruiting and hiring
  • Multidisciplinary team collaboration
  • Long-term care
  • Shift scheduling
  • Nurse education and training

Timeline

Assistant Director of Nursing

New Haven Care Center
02.2022 - Current

LPN Wound Nurse

New Haven Care Center
05.2020 - 02.2022

LPN Charge Nurse

New Haven Care Center
09.2015 - 05.2020

Certified Medication Technician

New Haven Care Center
10.2012 - 09.2015

Certified Nursing Assistant

New Haven Care Center
05.2011 - 10.2012

Sunshine Helper- Bed Maker

New Haven Care Center
05.2010 - 05.2011

Licensed Practical Nursing

Washington School of Practical Nursing
Catherine Duncan