Dynamic registered nurse with 37 years of diverse experience in direct pediatric patient care, staff supervision, and departmental operations at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital.
Proven track record in enhancing patient outcomes and staff satisfaction through effective communication and strong clinical judgment. Skilled at multitasking and prioritizing patient needs and daily assignments. Proficient in EPIC EMR and medication administration, while fostering collaborative care in fast-paced environments. Offering expertise in neonate and pediatric specialties.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Registered Nurse
UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital
05.1987 - 07.2024
Charge Nurse (1989-2023) for units of 36-72 beds. Ensures smooth and efficient operation of the unit on shift, support to staff with patient care, participates in nursing/MD rounding, patient admit/transfer flow with bed control, responding to emergencies, adherence to nursing/hospital policies, and participation in QI projects.
Utilized EPIC Electronic Medical Records System
Developed plan for new Mentor initiative to improve staff satisfaction, improve team collaboration and improve retention rates.
Member of Unit Practice Council
Cardiac Education committee
Unit scheduler for 10+ years working to improve staff satisfaction while maintaining adequate staffing numbers.
Delivered high level of quality care to medical/ surgical pediatric patients from ages 1 day to 21 years of age. Unit population included Cardiology/ Cardiac Surgery/Pre-transplant on Milrinone, Neurology with Video EEG monitoring, General Surgery, Orthopedics, ENT, Neurosurgery, Urology, Post Transplant, and General Medicine services.
Participated in Magnet and JACHO preparation within the hospital.
Implemented accurate medication procedures, enhancing patient safety.
Enhanced patient satisfaction through effective communication, empathy, and timely response to their needs.
Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
Developed strong relationships with patients' families, providing emotional support while addressing concerns or questions about care plans.
Improved patient outcomes by providing high-quality nursing care and implementing evidence-based practices.
Educated patients on disease management and self-care techniques, promoting lifestyle changes.
Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
Managed 3-5 patient nurse ratio autonomously, ensuring timely interventions and thorough follow-ups to mitigate potential complications.
Participated in professional development opportunities regularly to stay current on best practices in the field of nursing.
Adhered to personal and health data protocols to ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations.
Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
Collaborated with leadership to devise initiatives for improving nursing satisfaction, retention and morale.
Delivered high level of quality care to diverse populations while overseeing patient admission and triaging based on acuity and appropriate department admission.
Education
Bachelor Of Science In Nursing - Nursing
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL
Skills
STABLE Program completed 11/23
TCAR/ PCAR(Pediatric Education After Resuscitation) Program, expires 5/27
Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner at UF Health Pediatrics, General Pediatrics Primary CareAdvanced Registered Nurse Practitioner at UF Health Pediatrics, General Pediatrics Primary Care