Cindy Colon
Church Point,LA
Summary
Hardworking Registered Nurse with success providing individualized patient care. Committed to delivering best-in-class patient care through effective education and counseling. Proven leadership focused on increasing and enhancing patient care and satisfaction. Streamline safety protocols for comprehensive patient care. Dedicated and compassionate Registered Nurse (RN) with progressive career history in direct patient care, triage and care coordination in fast-paced environment. Proven to remain calm under pressure and skillfully handle difficult patients and high-stress situations. Consistently developing strong relationships with patients and families through empathetic communication, respectful attitude and excellent customer service.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
RN Resident Assessment Coordinator
VA Medical Center
07.2023 - Current
- I am detailed in the current position of Resident Assessment Coordinator from the Office of Community Living Center in order to support the mission of the facility.
- Improved patient outcomes by providing high-quality nursing care and implementing evidence-based practices.
- Enhanced patient satisfaction through effective communication, empathy, and timely response to their needs.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient care plans, resulting in better health outcomes.
- I actively participate in the care planning processes of the residents by using the MDS 3.0 software.
- I provide knowledge in promoting the application of the RAI-MDS assessment and care planning process.
- I assist the interdisciplinary team (IDT) in completing RAI-MDS assessments in a timely manner.
- I ensure all assessments and tracking forms are properly signed and completed.
- I assist in obtaining and validating reports to ensure accuracy prior to submissions to meet quality measures.
RN Staff Nurse- CLC Unit
VA Medical Center
04.2023 - Current
- Performed various nursing interventions such as wound dressing, vital sign monitoring, and specimen collection.
- Monitored patients' conditions and reported changes in physical presentation, appearance, and behavior to discuss treatment with physicians.
- Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Effectively prioritized assignments, executing care based on each patient's relative condition and delegating tasks to available personnel deliver safe and efficient care.
- Assessed physical, psychological, physiologic, and cognitive status of patients.
- Worked within interdisciplinary health care team to develop, implement and make adjustments to patient care plans, individualizing strategies, and methods to improve health and meet recovery goals.
- Identified patient care requirements by establishing personal rapport with patients and families.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- Directed patient care by initiating and following through with plan of care, continuing care.
- I am precepting in the RAC/MDS office to gain knowledge with care planning, Patient Assessments, Transmission of patient data assessments, etc.
RN Contract Nurse (Med-Surg/Telemetry)
Vie Med Medical Staffing
12.2022 - 03.2023
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Educated patients, families and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process, and management and lifestyle options.
- Provided direct patient care, stabilized patients, and determined next course of action.
- Managed care from admission to discharge.
- Implemented medication and IV administration, catheter insertion, and airway management.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- Evaluated healthcare needs, goals for treatment, and available resources of each patient and connected to optimal providers and care.
- Organized and managed care of patients undergoing various therapies and procedures.
- Advocated for patients by communicating care preferences to practitioners, verifying interventions met treatment goals and identifying insurance coverage limitations.
- Conferred with physicians to discuss diagnoses and devise well-coordinated treatment approaches.
- Advised patients and caregivers of proper wound management, discharge plan objectives, safe medication use, and disease management.
- Collected blood, tissue, and other laboratory specimens and prepared for lab testing.
- Monitored patient condition by interpreting and tracking EKG readings, identifying irregular telemetry readings and updating team members on changes in stability or acuity.
- Maintained quality care and comfort for patients with heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and other conditions.
- Oversaw delivery of care for patients on medical-surgical unit, providing direct care, delegating nursing assignments and supervising team comprised of nurses, LPNs, technicians, and unit clerks.
- Managed quality care for patients with heart failure, end-stage renal disease and coronary artery disease.
RN In House Contract Nurse
Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center
10.2022 - 12.2022
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Educated patients, families and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process, and management and lifestyle options.
- I was contracted on a Post-operative unit, taking care of patients who had surgical procedures performed, and patients who were in trauma situations, such as car accidents, gun violence, stabbing, etc. I performed wound care, pain management, infection control measures with prevention, chest tube management, colostomy care, NG tube, Peg tubes, Foley catheters, IV therapy, etc.
- Provided direct patient care, stabilized patients, and determined next course of action.
- Managed care from admission to discharge.
- Organized and managed care of patients undergoing various therapies and procedures.
- Advised patients and caregivers of proper wound management, discharge plan objectives, safe medication use, and disease management.
- Oversaw delivery of care for patients on medical-surgical unit, providing direct care, delegating nursing assignments and supervising team comprised of nurses, LPNs, technicians, and unit clerks.
RN Staff Nurse
United Medical Staffing
09.2022 - Current
- Administered medications via oral, IV and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Effectively prioritized assignments, executing care based on each patient's relative condition and delegating tasks to available personnel deliver safe and efficient care.
- Worked within interdisciplinary health care team to develop, implement and make adjustments to patient care plans, individualizing strategies and methods to improve health and meet recovery goals.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- I work as per diem in different clinical ares including: Med-surg, Rehab, Post-op, LTC, LTAC, Psych, etc.
RN Contract Nurse
GhostRX Medical Staffing
02.2022 - 09.2022
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess veterans and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing complex conditions.
- Educated patients, families and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options,. medications, disease processes, diet, management and lifestyle options from admission to discharge.
- Administered medications via oral, IV and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Provided direct patient care, stabilized patients and determined next course of action.
- Collected blood, tissue and other laboratory specimens and prepared for lab testing.
- Demonstrated leadership of a successful team comprised of RNs, LPNs, NAs, and ancillary on the CLC unit, while providing direct nursing care.
- Performed Covid Swabs on employees and Veterans on the unit.
- Adhered to VA standards of care, and standards of practice.
- Functioned as a charge nurse and staff nurse as assigned under supervision of the Head Nurse, Assistant Head Nurse, or designee.
- Made staff assignments on the unit and performed in a manner which reflected optimum use of staff availability and priority of care needs.
- Prepared variety of different written communications, reports and documents
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed
- Devoted special emphasis to punctuality and worked to maintain outstanding attendance record
- Improved operations through consistent hard work and dedication
- Actively listened to veterans' requests, confirming full understanding before addressing concerns.
RN, ADON
Heritage Manor Nursing Home
02.2020 - 08.2022
- I was the CNA supervisor, directing the day-to-day functions of the nursing assistants; periodically reviewing and making recommendations for revisions of the written nursing policies, procedures, manuals, and objectives; making rounds on the units for effective optimal nursing care.
- I met with the nursing assistants for orientation to the nursing units, policies and procedures, scheduling needs, disciplinary actions; reviewed personnel grievances and complaints to ensure that all personnel were treated fairly and respectfully.
- I was the lead educator in nursing/CNA simulation activities, evidence-based practice project implementation, Covid training, infection control and safety measures, and competency development to further nursing education.
- I obtained a Train-the-Trainer certificate and practiced as a CNA instructor in the absence of the DON or current instructor.
- Advised patients and caregivers of proper wound management, discharge plan objectives, safe medication use and disease management.
- Audited charts and reviewed clinical documents to verify accuracy.
- Oversaw delivery of care for patients on a long term care unit, providing direct care as a charge nurse/treatment nurse, delegating nursing assignments, and supervising team comprised of nurses, LPNs, technicians and unit clerks.
- Trained new nurses/CNAs in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures and safety protocols.
- I worked in the MDS Department, developing and revising care plans; assessing, monitoring, and documenting residents; health in their health record. I worked with the nurses, therapists,and interdisciplinary team to accomplish residents' goals. I worked with the MDS 3.0 program and RAI manuals.
- I was interim DON for 2 months while the DON was on medical leave. I managed the nursing department.
Telemonitoring RN
LHC Group Inc.
03.2019 - 02.2020
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Educated patients, families and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process and management and lifestyle options.
- I monitored home health patients in a call center/ office setting utilizing a telemonitoring system in their homes. I contacted patients and/or caregivers regarding vital signs/ symptom alerts, and communicated abnormal findings with the home health agency.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- Educated patients/caregivers on how to improve lifestyle choices, dramatically reducing chance of symptom reoccurrence/exacerbations.
- I participated in a new discharge program in the call center; alling patients/caregivers after being discharged from the home health agencies, checking on their conditions, medication, diet, and appointment compliance.
RN Field Case Manager
LHC Group- St. Landry Home Care
05.2017 - 03.2019
- I worked as a Field Case Manager, educating family members and caregivers on patient care instructions, diet, medications, and disease processes.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints and current symptoms.
- Accurately documented treatment, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions and follow-up care.
- Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety and rights of patient.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
- Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Performed exceptional care and support to individuals recovering from acute incidents and dealing with chronic conditions.
- Provided exceptional care to high-acute patients needing complex care such as CPAP/Bipap machines, ventilator management (Trilogy machines), extensive wound care and rehabilitation.
- Implemented care plans for patient treatment after assessing physician medical regimens.
- Participated in evidence-based practice project implementation, nursing competency development and nursing simulation activities.
RN (Post-Operative Unit)
Lafayette General Hospital
11.2016 - 08.2017
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Educated patients, families and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process and management and lifestyle options.
- Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures and safety protocols.
- Provided direct patient care, stabilized patients and determined next course of action.
- Administered medications via oral, IV and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Implemented medication and IV administration, catheter insertion and airway management.
- Managed care from admission to discharge.
- Collected blood, tissue and other laboratory specimens and prepared for lab testing.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- Monitored patient condition by interpreting and tracking EKG readings, identifying irregular telemetry readings and updating team members on changes in stability or acuity.
- Monitored patient reactions to drugs and carefully documented findings.
- Conferred with physicians to discuss diagnoses and devise well-coordinated treatment approaches.
- Evaluated healthcare needs, goals for treatment and available resources of each patient and connected to optimal providers and care.
- Advised patients and caregivers of proper wound management, discharge plan objectives, safe medication use and disease management.
- Reviewed post-operative orders and continuously monitored patients' post-operative vitals, set up PCA and fluids and oriented patients to unit.
- Participated in nursing simulation activities, evidence-based practice project implementation and competency development to further nursing education.
- Oversaw delivery of care for patients on medical-surgical unit, providing direct care, delegating nursing assignments, and supervising team comprised of nurses, LPNs, technicians and unit clerks.
RN Field Case Manager And Office Case Manager
CareCycle Solutions (Medsource Home Health)
05.2014 - 10.2016
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions as a case manager.
- Accurately documented treatment, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions and follow-up care.
- Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety and rights of patient.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints and current symptoms.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
- Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
- Offered exceptional care and support to individuals recovering from acute incidents and dealing with chronic conditions.
- Provided exceptional care to high-acute patients needing complex care such as oxygen management, IV therapies, extensive wound care and rehabilitation.
- I also worked as a Case Manager for the Extended Care Department through the admission, recertification, and discharge processes; providing quality care to pediatrics requiring IV therapy, G-tube/button care, Tracheostomy care, ventilation/Oxygen care, indwelling catheter care,
- Conveyed treatment options, diagnosis information and home care techniques to patients and caregivers to continue care consistency.
- Collaborated with leadership to devise initiatives for improving nursing satisfaction, retention and morale.
- Led teams in driving successful patient outcomes by prioritizing standard of care and best practices.
RN Field Case Manager
Professional Home Health Services
01.2014 - 07.2014
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions, medications, IV therapy, diet, ADLs, and disease processes to promote positive outcomes and independence.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints and current symptoms.
- Accurately documented treatment, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions and follow-up care.
- Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety and rights of patient.
RN Staff Nurse
LHC Group- St. Landry Extended Care Hospital
08.2013 - 02.2014
- Administered medications via oral, IV and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Effectively prioritized assignments, executing care based on each patient's relative condition and delegating tasks to available personnel deliver safe and efficient care.
- Worked within interdisciplinary health care team to develop, implement and make adjustments to patient care plans, individualizing strategies and methods to improve health and meet recovery goals.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- I worked on the LTAC unit with patients with complex health conditions who required rehabilitation, complex wound care, IV therapy, from admission to discharge.
- Conferred with physicians to discuss diagnoses and devise well-coordinated treatment approaches.
- Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures and safety protocols.
- Verified patients had information necessary for ongoing care, providing guidance on diagnoses, management of medications and prevention methods.
- Reported patients' status and delegated nurse assignments to achieve optimal outcomes.
RN Field Case Manager
IBC- Community Home Health
10.2010 - 09.2013
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints and current symptoms.
- Accurately documented treatment, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions and follow-up care.
- Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety and rights of patient.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
- 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.
- Provided exceptional care and support to individuals recovering from acute incidents and dealing with chronic conditions.
LPN
First Choice Medical Staffing
05.2007 - 05.2010
- Documented accurate and complete patient information to address patient problems and expected outcomes.
- Administered controlled narcotics, inserted IVs and performed catheterizations.
- Performed routine evaluations of each patient's status, needs and preferences.
- Obtained patient vital signs and input/output measurements from inpatients.
- Assisted with admissions, appointments, transfers and discharges.
- I worked per diem in different clinical areas such as Med-Surg, Psych, Telemetry, LTAC, LTC, Rehab.
LPN
Lafayette Physical Rehab Hospital
04.2006 - 05.2007
- Documented accurate and complete patient information to address patient problems and expected outcomes.
- Administered controlled narcotics, inserted IVs and performed catheterizations.
- Performed routine evaluations of each patient's status, needs and preferences.
- Obtained patient vital signs and input/output measurements from inpatients.
- Managed patient care through closely monitoring respiration, blood pressure and blood glucose levels.
- Assisted with admissions, appointments, transfers and discharges.
- Used aseptic techniques to provide sterilized wound care and dressing applications.
- Cared for wounds, provided treatments and assisted with procedures.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team of healthcare and social service providers to address patients' needs through effective intervention and care planning.
- Assisted with feeding and monitored intake to help patients achieve nutritional objectives.
- Supported physicians during examinations and scans to assist with diagnostic procedures.
LPN
St. Landry Extended Care Hospital
03.2004 - 05.2006
- Documented accurate and complete patient information to address patient problems and expected outcomes.
- Administered controlled narcotics, inserted IVs and performed indwelling/Foley catheterizations.
- Performed routine evaluations of each patient's status, needs and preferences.
- Obtained patient vital signs and input/output measurements from inpatients.
- Assisted with admissions, appointments, transfers and discharges.
- Cared for wounds, provided treatments and assisted with procedures.
- Used aseptic techniques to provide sterilized wound care and dressing applications.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team of healthcare and social service providers to address patients' needs through effective intervention and care planning.
- Offered immediate assistance in emergency and routine paging situations to evaluate needs and deliver care.
- Obtained biological specimens for ordered tests and prepared for laboratory transport.
- Answered incoming phone calls from patients to provide basic assistance and triage medical concerns.
LPN Charge Nurse
Senior Village Nursing & Rehab Center
07.2002 - 03.2004
- Delivered direct quality care to patients by evaluating medical conditions and managing and assessing treatments.
- Analyzed patient assessments and laboratory data to bring any issues to attention of physicians.
- Assembled and used equipment such as catheters, tracheotomy tubes or oxygen suppliers to effectively manage patient care.
- Updated patient medical records with services provided, health conditions and response to treatments.
- Assessed patients' temperature, pulse and blood pressure and recorded in electronic medical records.
- Reviewed patient history to verify conditions and current medications.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints and current symptoms.
- Provided long-term care residents with bathing, dressing, feeding and other daily living activities.
LPN
Opelousas General Health System
04.2000 - 07.2002
- Documented accurate and complete patient information to address patient problems and expected outcomes.
- Administered controlled narcotics, inserted IVs and performed catheterizations.
- Performed routine evaluations of each patient's status, needs and preferences.
- Obtained patient vital signs and input/output measurements from inpatients.
- I worked on the Med-Surg units caring for patients with complex medical conditions.
- Assisted with admissions, appointments, transfers and discharges.
- Delivered updates in patient status to charge nurse, recording changes in medical records.
- Gathered lab specimens, ordered testing and interpreted results to diagnose patients.
- Cared for wounds, provided treatments and assisted with procedures.
- Educated patients and caregivers on medical diagnoses, treatment options, chronic disease self-management and wound management.
- Performed functional assessments for admission and discharge.
LPN Charge Nurse
Maison Deville Nursing Home
05.1999 - 06.2000
- Delivered direct quality care to patients by evaluating medical conditions and managing and assessing treatments.
- Analyzed patient assessments and laboratory data to bring any issues to attention of physicians.
- Promoted patient independence by teaching self-care skills and explaining conditions and medications.
- Documented patient vitals, behaviors and conditions to communicate concerns to the DON/ADON/Administrator.
- Assessed patients' temperature, pulse and blood pressure and recorded in electronic medical records.
- Administered Oral/IM/SQ medications and monitored for side effects/adverse reactions.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Mcneese University
Lake Charles05.2017
Associate of Science - Nursing
Lamar University
Beaumont, TX05.2010
LPN - Nursing
LTC- T.H. Harris Campus
Opelousas05.1999
Skills
- Ability to learn quickly
- Guided learning
- Fast learner
- Internet-savvy
- RN Case Management
- Learning modalities
- Triaging patient concerns
- Online learning
- Compassionate and Caring
- Patient Examination
- Clear Patient Communication
- Fast and Eager learner
- Healthcare Personnel Supervision
Certification
BLS (2021)
Train-the-Trainer Certificate (2021)
Nursing Home Infection Preventionist Certificate (2021)
Timeline
RN Resident Assessment Coordinator
VA Medical Center
07.2023 - Current
RN Staff Nurse- CLC Unit
VA Medical Center
04.2023 - Current
RN Contract Nurse (Med-Surg/Telemetry)
Vie Med Medical Staffing
12.2022 - 03.2023
RN In House Contract Nurse
Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center
10.2022 - 12.2022
RN Staff Nurse
United Medical Staffing
09.2022 - Current
RN Contract Nurse
GhostRX Medical Staffing
02.2022 - 09.2022
RN, ADON
Heritage Manor Nursing Home
02.2020 - 08.2022
Telemonitoring RN
LHC Group Inc.
03.2019 - 02.2020
RN Field Case Manager
LHC Group- St. Landry Home Care
05.2017 - 03.2019
RN (Post-Operative Unit)
Lafayette General Hospital
11.2016 - 08.2017
RN Field Case Manager And Office Case Manager
CareCycle Solutions (Medsource Home Health)
05.2014 - 10.2016
RN Field Case Manager
Professional Home Health Services
01.2014 - 07.2014
RN Staff Nurse
LHC Group- St. Landry Extended Care Hospital
08.2013 - 02.2014
RN Field Case Manager
IBC- Community Home Health
10.2010 - 09.2013
LPN
First Choice Medical Staffing
05.2007 - 05.2010
LPN
Lafayette Physical Rehab Hospital
04.2006 - 05.2007
LPN
St. Landry Extended Care Hospital
03.2004 - 05.2006
LPN Charge Nurse
Senior Village Nursing & Rehab Center
07.2002 - 03.2004
LPN
Opelousas General Health System
04.2000 - 07.2002
LPN Charge Nurse
Maison Deville Nursing Home
05.1999 - 06.2000
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Mcneese University
Associate of Science - Nursing
Lamar University
LPN - Nursing
LTC- T.H. Harris Campus
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