Christina Panai
Fort Pierce
Summary
Compassionate Licensed Practical Nurse skilled in enhancing patient outcomes through effective care coordination and regulatory compliance. Experienced as a Utilization Review Nurse, recognized for efficiency in medical necessity reviews. Expertise in critical thinking, case management, and healthcare policy interpretation. Drives collaboration among healthcare professionals while navigating complex healthcare environments.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Utilization Review nurse / Team Lead
Advanced recovery systems
FL
11.2020 - Current
- Proficiency in establishing and maintaining positive and effective communication with managed care companies
- Conducted utilization reviews to optimize resource allocation and patient care
- Performed concurrent reviews to confirm adherence to care standards, supporting quality patient outcomes
- Completes pre-authorizations/concurrent reviews/internal UR reviews
- Utilized ASAM criteria to determine appropriate levels of care
- Aligned medical and counseling staff to deliver services at the correct level of care based on patient conditions.
- Demonstrated understanding of Medicaid processes and requirements
- Single Case Agreements
- Compiled census reports to monitor patient admissions and discharges, ensuring accurate resource allocation
- Organized training sessions and assignment schedules to enhance staff readiness and service delivery
- Systems Utilizing: Avatar, Microsoft Office Programs, Internet, Emails, Tiger Chat, Teams for meetings, Global Protect to log in to secure network
ADON
Retreat of the palm beaches
FL
08.2016 - 09.2020
- Chart Checks / Tracers
- Monitoring / Ordering medicines and supplies
- Overseeing Processed patient admissions efficiently / Discharges
- Built relationships with physicians and healthcare providers to support improved health outcomes for patients.
- Applies clinical knowledge to work with facilities and providers for care-coordination
- Executed tasks from nursing management, emphasizing clinical and utilization review processes.
- Attending Mental Health and VA Meetings along with managing their care and medication
- Facilitated onboarding and training for new employees to enhance team integration and performance.
- Completing N2N for patient transfers or to receive them back from hospital stays
- Systems Utilizing: Sigmund / Aura EMR / Microsoft Office Programs, Internet, Emails
- Assisted in managing daily operations of nursing staff and patient care.
- Coordinated staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage and efficiency.
- Developed training programs for new nurses and support staff.
- Implemented quality assurance processes to maintain high care standards.
- Facilitated communication between departments for improved workflow.
- Monitored compliance with health regulations and internal policies.
- Supported management in strategic planning for staffing needs and resources.
- Served as a resource person for questions related to professional practice issues within the facility.
- Provided guidance, mentorship, and support to newly hired nurses.
- Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient care issues.
- Developed educational materials for nursing staff on various topics related to quality improvement initiatives.
- Coordinated with physicians, pharmacists, dietitians, and social workers to ensure comprehensive patient care.
- Conducted quality assurance audits to evaluate adherence to standards of care.
- Trained new nurses on proper documentation techniques according to established protocols.
- Ensured compliance with state and federal regulations related to nursing practice.
- Conducted regular performance reviews of nursing staff.
- Facilitated monthly meetings with nursing staff to review changes in policies, procedures, or standards of care.
- Identified areas of improvement within the department and developed plans for implementation.
- Developed and maintained staffing schedule in accordance with contract terms, budget mandates and accreditation standards for nursing coverage.
- Reviewed daily documentation of dispensing of controlled substances, immediately noting discrepancies from shift to shift.
- Communicated with patients with compassion while keeping medical information private.
- Explained policies, procedures and services to patients.
- Built work schedules and staff assignments, taking workload, space and equipment availability into consideration.
Detox Nurse
THE TREATMENT CENTER
FL
10.2014 - 08.2016
- New patient assessments / intakes / psych / eating disorders / diabetics / etc.
- Monitored patient vitals to facilitate prompt interventions during emergencies.
- Administered medications per protocol and educated patients on effective medication management and hydration practices.
- Administered TB injections and re-evaluated patients to ensure adherence to treatment plans.
- Systems Utilizing: Charting narrative and computerized on Kipu
- Monitored patient vital signs and reported changes to medical staff.
- Administered detoxification medications according to established protocols.
- Provided emotional support and counseling to patients during recovery.
- Maintained accurate patient records and documentation for treatment compliance.
- Educated patients on the detox process and coping strategies for recovery.
- Ensured safety protocols were followed during patient interactions and treatments.
- Participated in staff training sessions to enhance team knowledge and skills.
- Provided emotional support to help patients cope with anxiety and depression associated with detoxification.
- Assisted in crisis intervention when necessary.
- Administered medications as prescribed by physician to reduce withdrawal symptoms or cravings during detoxification period.
- Monitored vital signs to ensure patient safety during detoxification process.
- Performed physical assessments on patients to determine level of intoxication or drug overdose.
- Adapted nursing practice according to changes in regulations or standards of care related to addiction treatment services.
- Counseled individuals on recognizing triggers that could lead to relapse in order to prevent future substance abuse.
- Provided education about the dangers of substance abuse and ways to avoid it.
- Maintained accurate records of patient care including assessments, treatments, medications administered, progress notes.
- Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
- Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
- Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
Detox Nurse
Lumiere Detox Center
Florida
01.2015 - 07.2016
- New patient assessments / intakes / psych / eating disorders / diabetics / etc.
- Monitored patient vitals and evaluated health conditions in emergency situations to ensure timely interventions.
- Administered medications per established protocols and educated patients on proper medication use and hydration practices.
- Administered injections / TB injections and re-evaluation
- Conducted utilization reviews to optimize resource allocation and align with patient care needs.
- Systems Utilizing: Charting narrative and computerized on Kipu
Travel Psych Prison Nurse
Texas Department of Corrections
Rusk
08.2014 - 12.2014
- Conducted ongoing assessments to evaluate treatment response and adjust care plans accordingly.
- Identified and addressed physical, emotional, and developmental needs of inmates to enhance overall well-being.
- Facilitated communication among healthcare team members to ensure coordinated patient care.
- Managed unusual situations and changes in inmate condition to ensure timely and appropriate interventions.
- Maintained accurate documentation of patient information to support care continuity.
- Administered medications and monitored patient responses in correctional facilities.
- Conducted health assessments and documented findings for inmate care plans.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate healthcare services.
- Provided emergency care and first aid during medical crises in detention settings.
- Maintained accurate medical records using electronic health record systems.
- Ensured compliance with healthcare regulations and safety standards in operations.
- Recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
- Maintained a safe environment for both staff and patients through adherence to safety protocols.
- Administered medications and treatments in accordance with physician orders.
- Assessed and monitored patient health conditions, including vital signs such as temperature, pulse rate and blood pressure.
- Used sterile techniques to prepare patients for procedures.
- Assisted physician with examinations, tests and procedures.
- Responded quickly and effectively in emergency situations utilizing advanced life saving skills when needed.
- Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while prioritizing urgent requests from physicians or nurses.
- Updated charts throughout shifts with current, accurate information to maintain strict recordkeeping standards.
- Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
- Collected lab specimens, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests and lab results.
- Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
- Administered local, inhalation or intravenous anesthetics to patients undergoing procedures.
- Achieved departmental goals and objectives by instituting new processes and standards for in-patient care.
Inpatient Psychiatry Nurse
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
Florida
06.2013 - 05.2014
- Provided comprehensive care for inpatient psychiatric and drug detox clients, including assessments, treatments, and medication administration under RN supervision.
- Recognized and managed urgent or emergent patient care situations, ensuring timely interventions under supervision of RN/MD/DO.
- New patient assessments / intakes / psych / eating disorders / diabetics / etc.
- Educated patients on medication management and nutrition, enhancing their understanding of hydration practices.
- Vitals/ monitoring / evaluation & conditions of the patients / dealing with emergencies
- Documenting and reporting any deviations from normal to RN or MD/DO.
- Oversaw the daily activities of technicians to ensure compliance with protocols.
- Provided direct patient care in accordance with established protocols and standards.
- Administered medications and monitored patient responses for safety and effectiveness.
- Educated veterans and families on health management and wellness strategies.
- Maintained accurate documentation of patient interactions and medical histories.
- Advocated for veteran patients' rights and access to necessary services.
- Recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
- Maintained a safe environment for both staff and patients through adherence to safety protocols.
- Assessed and monitored patient health conditions, including vital signs such as temperature, pulse rate and blood pressure.
- Delivered compassionate care to increase comfort and psychological, social and spiritual well-being.
- Monitored patient's respiration activity, blood pressure and blood glucose levels in response to medical administration.
- Responded quickly and effectively in emergency situations utilizing advanced life saving skills when needed.
- Ensured that all documentation was accurate and up-to-date according to established guidelines.
- Answered patient and family questions to educate on optimal treatment procedures.
- Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while prioritizing urgent requests from physicians or nurses.
- Communicated concerns regarding patients' status, care and environment to nursing supervisors, clinical care supervisors and case managers.
- Advocated for patients by supporting and respecting basic rights, values, and beliefs.
- Updated charts throughout shifts with current, accurate information to maintain strict recordkeeping standards.
- Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
- Oversaw patient admission and discharge processes to coordinate related paperwork.
- Collected lab specimens, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests and lab results.
Detox Nurse
THE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH OF THE PALM BEACHES
Florida
03.2011 - 05.2013
- New patient assessments / intakes / psych / eating disorders / diabetics / etc.
- Administered medications to patients per protocol, educating them on medication management, nutrition, and hydration.
- Supervised detox technicians' daily activities, ensuring adherence to treatment protocols and patient safety.
- Vitals/ monitoring / evaluation & conditions of the patients / dealing with emergencies
- Charting narrative and computerized / created and updated the bedsheets of patients on property for morning report
- Trained new employees on computer systems and software, facilitating their integration into the team and enhancing operational efficiency.
Education
Associate Degree in Nursing - Boca Raton, FL
Techni Pro
Boca Raton, FL01.2016
License Practical Nursing - Lake Worth, FL
Palm Beach State College
Lake Worth, FL12-2010
Skills
- Utilization review
- Concurrent review assessments
- Pre-authorization workflows
- InterQual criteria
- ASAM criteria in practice
- Clinical assessment
- Patient evaluation
- Healthcare coordination efforts
- Verification of insurance claims
- Insurance verification
- Discharge planning
- Quality assurance
- Data reporting accuracy
- Healthcare regulations
- Healthcare regulation knowledge
- Compliance with HIPAA regulations
- Managed care operations
- Leadership in team settings
- Training staff effectively
- Employee coaching and mentoring
- Prioritization under pressure
- Problem solving
- Standard appeals
- Problem solving
- Employee coaching and mentoring
- Operating systems expertise
- Resolve technical problems
- Computer software expertise
- Computer software proficiency
- Proficient in Latest Windows and Apple software
- Proficient in adobe software
- Apple and Windows Software Proficiency
- Microsoft Office
- Data entry
- Microsoft office suite expertise
References
References upon request.
Timeline
Utilization Review nurse / Team Lead
Advanced recovery systems
11.2020 - Current
ADON
Retreat of the palm beaches
08.2016 - 09.2020
Detox Nurse
Lumiere Detox Center
01.2015 - 07.2016
Detox Nurse
THE TREATMENT CENTER
10.2014 - 08.2016
Travel Psych Prison Nurse
Texas Department of Corrections
08.2014 - 12.2014
Inpatient Psychiatry Nurse
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS
06.2013 - 05.2014
Detox Nurse
THE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH OF THE PALM BEACHES
03.2011 - 05.2013
Associate Degree in Nursing - Boca Raton, FL
Techni Pro
License Practical Nursing - Lake Worth, FL
Palm Beach State College