CHRISTINA M. JUAREZ
Canton,IL
Summary
Compassionate and dedicated Licensed Practical Nurse with 13 years of experience in direct patient care. Energetic and motivating leader offers expertise in Pediatric Developmental/Mentally/Behaviorally challenged, Geriatric, and Dementia combined with strong command of task orientation, time efficiency, compassion, understanding. I have over 21 years experience in healthcare ranging widely in variety from C.N.A, activity director of geriatric facility, Admission/Social Service Director of geriatric/behavioral/dementia facility, Marketing (nursing home), and Nurse Administrator for case management office for federal waiver program of SOURCE and CCSP. I am very compassionate in my career to take care of loved ones as I would take care of my own.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Nurse Administrator
PruittHealth Home First
05.2022 - Current
- Oversaw nursing operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and quality care protocols.
- Developed and implemented strategic initiatives to enhance patient care delivery and operational efficiency.
- Led interdisciplinary teams to optimize workflow processes, resulting in improved staff collaboration and patient outcomes.
- Mentored nursing staff on best practices, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
- Managed budgetary allocations, aligning resources with organizational goals to maximize service delivery effectiveness.
- Analyzed performance metrics to identify areas for improvement, driving data-informed decision-making across departments.
- Facilitated training programs for nursing personnel, enhancing skill sets and promoting adherence to clinical guidelines.
- Coordinated patient care strategies, integrating feedback from stakeholders to refine service offerings and patient satisfaction efforts.
- Piloted innovative staffing models designed not only to meet patient needs but also boost employee engagement and satisfaction.
- Promoted a positive work environment through effective communication, team-building activities, and conflict resolution techniques.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory standards by regularly reviewing and updating hospital policies and protocols.
- Provided leadership in the development of new nursing programs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and objectives for healthcare excellence.
- Improved patient care quality by implementing effective nursing administration policies and procedures.
- Oversaw facility accreditation processes, ensuring adherence to stringent industry standards for quality assurance purposes.
- Evaluated employee performance to identify areas for improvement, providing constructive feedback and opportunities for professional development.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop integrated care plans that addressed patients'' diverse needs holistically.
- Enhanced patient satisfaction by addressing concerns promptly and implementing feedback-driven improvements.
- Implemented comprehensive risk management strategies to minimize potential hazards within the healthcare setting while preserving patient safety.
- Served as an advocate for both patients and staff members alike, championing their rights while navigating complex healthcare systems on their behalf.
- Developed strong relationships with community partners to enhance collaborative efforts in improving public health outcomes.
- Mentored new nursing administrators, sharing expertise and fostering a culture of learning within the organization.
- Led initiatives for continuous quality improvement, involving staff in the identification of best practices and evidence-based interventions.
- Coordinated disaster response plans during emergencies by collaborating with multiple departments across the facility.
- Increased staff efficiency through scheduling optimization and workload management strategies.
- Participated in management team meetings to discuss resident status, census changes, and resident complaints or concerns.
- Monitored and evaluated nursing staff performance, providing feedback and guidance to support standards of care.
- Performed rounds to observe care and interview staff, residents, and families.
- Oversaw and approved recruitment, hiring and orientation of new nursing staff.
- Collaborated with staff, management, and external groups to coordinate patient care.
- Built and maintained positive working relationships with physicians and staff to support seamless healthcare operations.
- Worked closely administration to develop and implement best practices to improve patient outcomes.
- Developed positive employee relations, incentives, and recognition programs to promote teamwork and mutual respect.
- Identified department issues to recommend corrective actions.
- Established new policies and updated existing policies to improve standard of care for patients.
- Facilitated continuing education and training programs to drive staff competency and professional development.
- Planned and assigned workload to Number-person nursing staff to direct patient care.
- Established and maintained effective communication with staff, physicians and community organizations to promote high quality patient care.
- Recruited, hired and trained all staff, providing direct supervision, ongoing staff development and continuing education to employees.
- Liaised with other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive patient care plans and provide highest quality of care.
- Developed and updated policies and procedures, maintaining compliance with guidelines relating to HIPAA, benefits administration and general liability.
- Implemented successful healthcare program through professionalism, quality of care, medical teaching and patient satisfaction.
- Discussed medical histories with patients in effort to provide most effective medical advice.
- Created customized care plans, working with hospital staff and families to assess and meet individual needs.
Case Manager
PruittHealth Home First
05.2021 - 2025
- Developed and implemented individualized care plans for diverse client needs.
- Coordinated multidisciplinary team meetings to enhance service delivery and client outcomes.
- Monitored client progress, adjusting care strategies based on ongoing assessments.
- Facilitated communication between clients, families, and healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care.
- Educated clients and families on available resources and support services to promote independence.
- Trained new staff on case management protocols and best practices for effective client support.
- Evaluated program effectiveness through regular reviews, identifying areas for improvement in service delivery.
- Advocated for clients' rights and needs within healthcare systems to secure appropriate services and support.
- Maintained accurate documentation on all cases, ensuring compliance with regulations and confidentiality requirements.
- Conducted thorough assessments of clients'' situations, identifying issues, goals, and necessary interventions.
- Monitored ongoing cases closely, adjusting case management strategies as needed based on evolving circumstances or new information.
- Educated clients on available programs, benefits, and services, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care needs.
- Enhanced communication between clients and providers through consistent follow-ups and progress updates.
- Achieved positive client outcomes by developing and implementing comprehensive case management plans.
- Advocated for client rights when interacting with external agencies or institutions, ensuring fair treatment at all times.
- Provided crisis intervention support for clients experiencing emergencies, using appropriate techniques to de-escalate situations safely.
- Contributed to team discussions and case conferences actively, sharing insights and expertise with colleagues to optimize client support strategies.
- Coordinated services with other agencies, community-based organizations, and healthcare professionals to provide useful benefits to clients.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive case management plans to address client needs and goals.
- Assisted clients in navigating housing, legal services and public benefits to gain access to valuable resources.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to address client needs and formulate tailored support strategies.
- Assisted clients in setting achievable goals while providing ongoing encouragement and support throughout the process of reaching those objectives.
- Coordinated essential services for clients, resulting in improved overall well-being and selfsufficiency.
- Monitored clients' progress and tracked client services to provide crisis interventions.
- Participated in regular professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices within the field of case management.
- Partnered with physicians, social workers, activity therapists, nutritionists, and case managers to develop and implement individualized care plans and documented patient interactions and interventions in electronic charting systems.
- Strengthened relationships with community organizations to increase access to supportive resources for clients in need.
- Facilitated successful transitions between levels of care by developing detailed discharge plans and coordinating resources.
- Promoted a safe environment for vulnerable populations by reporting suspected abuse or neglect.
- Coordinated with healthcare providers to ensure clients had access to necessary medical services, enhancing their overall well-being.
- Managed crisis situations with empathy and professionalism, ensuring client safety and continuity of care.
- Enhanced public awareness of case management services through community outreach events, increasing access for underserved populations.
- Advocated for clients in legal settings, ensuring their rights were protected and voices heard.
- Developed partnerships with local agencies to provide broader range of services for clients, broadening their support network.
Pediatric Licensed Practical Nurse
Renaissance Care Center
05.2018 - 04.2021
- Helped patients meet dietary needs by preparing food trays and monitoring intake.
- Improved patient care and outcomes through close collaboration with healthcare team.
- Helped patients with routine needs, special calls and emergencies.
- Trained and supervised junior nursing staff, including aides, assistants and students.
- Delivered top-notch care for all basic needs, including changing dressings, managing catheters and preventing or treating bedsores.
- Kept charts and unit records updated with timely Point Click Care documentation.
- Supported personal needs and wishes with caring attention to hygiene and grooming.
- Tracked patients' responses to medications, behaviors, and vitals for treating clinicians.
- Served customers by going above-and-beyond to offer exceptional support for all needs.
- Approached and solved work problems with initiative and sound judgement.
- Contributed to patients' treatments by administering prescribed medications and starting intravenous fluids.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Red Oak Memory Care
06.2016 - 05.2019
- Handled patient intake, including documenting vitals, symptoms, and initial assessments.
- Assisted with laboratory services, collecting and preparing samples for testing.
- Supported patients in achieving healthcare goals through personalized care and ongoing assistance.
- Managed medication distribution and security for Dementia unit, ensuring each patient received medication and preventing unauthorized access.
- Oversaw unit operations, supervising all patient treatments and maintaining current records.
- Stayed on top of patients' needs with routine rounds, paying special attention to high-acuity patients.
- Observed patients, recorded significant conditions and reactions, and notified DON/PCP/POA of changes and concerns.
- Charted progress notes, reflecting care administered and responses.
- Communicated effectively with C.N.A's, DON, PCP, Therapist's, POA's, and home health agencies, providing seamless continuum of care.
- Coordinated medications for patients, placing pharmacy orders and administering medications.
Admissions Marketing Director
Prairie View Care Center
06.2016 - 09.2017
- Improved advertising and promotional plans with clearly organized and executed marketing strategies.
- Captured new customers using creative and fresh approaches.
- Marketed Prairie View Care Center through effective collaborations with developers, advertisers, and production managers handling print, online, and in-person marketing approaches.
- Collaborated with team members to meet daily demands and handle challenging admissions related to geriatric/Dementia/psychologically and Mentally challenged.
- Developed solid relationships with staff, customers, and community affiliates.
- Completed accurate pre-admissions by carefully reviewing medical records, medications, medical insurance, and therapies needed.
- Worked effectively with diverse team to accomplish daily objectives and meet long-term goals of all potential residents.
- Created Blood Pressure Clients in surrounding communities in which I provided free Glucose testing, blood pressures, heart rates, oxygen levels, education upon results, free products related to Prairie View Care Center providing educational pamphlets and products, and assisting community with all agencies available to assist any their personal needs.
- Held bingo nights at community centers for all to attend providing gifts sponsored by Prairie View Care Center
Activity Director/Lpn
Renaissance Care Center
06.2012 - 06.2016
- Led and implemented one-on-one, small group, and large group activities according to established programming schedule.
- Evaluated programs to address quality and suitability for participants.
- Recruited, scheduled, and supervised assistants and volunteers.
- Organized and scheduled facility and community events.
- Supported, encouraged, and directed participation in all activities and welcomed participant feedback.
- Assessed needs and interests of individuals and groups and planned activities accordingly.
- Organized, led, and promoted interest in recreational activities such as arts, crafts, sports, games, camping, and hobbies.
- Kept participants safe with thorough instruction and ongoing monitoring of activities.
- Started a yearly haunted house to include all residents willing and able to provide a free safe environment for those in our community for free
Admission/Social Service Director
Sunset Manor
11.2010 - 06.2012
- Met legal requirements by correctly completing important forms.
- Promoted productivity by handling all administrative tasks, including schedules and correspondence.
- Worked effectively with diverse team to accomplish daily objectives and meet long-term goals.
- Assisted families and patients with applications for Medicaid/Medicare services.
- Assisting in all admission forms to include contracts, POLST forms, and payment set up.
- Served customers by going above-and-beyond to offer exceptional support for all needs.
- Protected company and customer data by following information policies.
- Modified patients' treatment plans as indicated by patients' responses and new physician orders.
- Delivered evidence-based, cost-effective care to every patient based on extensive experience in nursing home care.
- Collaborated with other professionals to evaluate patients' medical and physical condition and to assess client needs.
- Enhanced patient outcomes through careful monitoring of conditions and comprehensive support.
- Contributed ideas for improving work processes.
- Approached and solved work problems with initiative and sound judgment.
- Developed solid relationships with staff, customers, and their families
- Follow up with all inquiries of potential new residents to geriatric/dementia/behavioral unit
- Assessed possible residents prior to admissions at local and surrounding medical facilities.
- Obtained medical insurance/Medicare/Medicaid information to ensure all needs provided at our facility would be in network with appropriate coverage
- Assisting in discharge planning to ensure resident will continue to sustain physical goals at home or in their community.
- Addressed crisis situations with one-on-one support and by advocating for additional resources.
- Kept clients on-track with treatment and care plans, continuously monitoring and evaluating successes.
- Helped patients recover from mental and physical illnesses by obtaining access to healthcare, financial, and educational assistance.
- Helped family members understand and deal with patient conditions, using counseling and support groups to improve individual support structures.
- Referred patients to community resources to assist in recovery from mental or physical illness and to provide access to services such as financial assistance, legal aid, and job placement.
- Assisted clients with overcoming major issues such as dependencies, illnesses, and life-changing injuries.
- Managed efficient and successful transitions from care facilities to step-down environments and at-home care.
Certified Nursing Assistant
Renaissance Care Center
02.2006 - 10.2008
- Improved patient quality of life by assisting with daily living activities.
- Protected patients by monitoring conditions and promptly reporting problems to appropriate nurse.
- Kept patients clean, dry, and properly cared for under direction of registered nurses.
- Maximized patient comfort by keeping rooms clean and consistently meeting individual needs.
- Moved patients smoothly between beds, wheelchair, and other locations.
- Prevented bedsores, consistently turning patients every [Number] hours.
- Offered support, companionship, and stimulation through conversation and recreation.
- Maintained safety standards with proper handling and disposal of biomedical waste.
- Documented actions, vitals, and intake/output in written records.
- Helped patients with limited mental and physical capacity handle daily living tasks such as feeding and grooming.
- Resolved patient issues by quickly responding to calls and emergency issues.
Education
Licensed practical Nurse - undefined
Carl Sandburg College
Galesburg, IL04.2013
Skills
- Executed comprehensive wound care management protocols to ensure optimal patient recovery
- Utilized Microsoft Word to create and format professional documents
- Demonstrated proficiency in operating and maintaining medical equipment
- Executed tracheostomy procedures with precision and adherence to medical protocols
- Analyzed and interpreted vital statistics to inform public health initiatives
- Implemented isolation precautions to ensure patient safety and prevent cross-contamination
- Executed medication administration protocols to ensure patient safety and compliance
- Optimized scheduling and prioritization of tasks to enhance productivity
- Administered comprehensive ostomy care to ensure patient comfort and health
- Oversaw medication administration processes to ensure patient safety and compliance
- Processed phone and written orders efficiently to support customer needs Assisted in maintaining accurate order records to ensure timely fulfillment Collaborated with team members to streamline order processing procedures
- Leveraged advanced computer skills to enhance operational efficiency
- Managed comprehensive recordkeeping systems to ensure data accuracy and compliance
- Streamlined task prioritization processes to enhance workflow efficiency
- Executed pulse oximetry tracking to monitor patient oxygen levels effectively
- Enhanced communication skills to facilitate effective team collaboration
- Monitored and analyzed trends in communicable diseases to inform public health strategies
Certification
Certified Case Manager
CPR/BLS/AED
Timeline
Nurse Administrator
PruittHealth Home First
05.2022 - Current
Case Manager
PruittHealth Home First
05.2021 - 2025
Pediatric Licensed Practical Nurse
Renaissance Care Center
05.2018 - 04.2021
Licensed Practical Nurse
Red Oak Memory Care
06.2016 - 05.2019
Admissions Marketing Director
Prairie View Care Center
06.2016 - 09.2017
Activity Director/Lpn
Renaissance Care Center
06.2012 - 06.2016
Admission/Social Service Director
Sunset Manor
11.2010 - 06.2012
Certified Nursing Assistant
Renaissance Care Center
02.2006 - 10.2008
Licensed practical Nurse - undefined
Carl Sandburg College