Dana Houseknecht

• Monitored and managed patient airways to maintain optimal levels and prevent common complications.
• Delivered emergency care such as positive airway management, cardiac support and medical interventions.
• Observed responses such as pulse and blood pressure to preemptively identify and address issues.
• Employed techniques such as pharmacological support and mechanical ventilation during different outpatient and inpatient procedures.
• Administered anesthetics before surgery and monitored effects prior, during and after surgery.
• Supported work of anesthesiologists, assessed patients and completed safety checks.
• Assessed patients' medical histories to predict anesthesia response.
• Screened and interviewed patients prior to administering anesthetics to identify and document concerns.

- Worked for Keller Anesthesia PRN as an independent CRNA in a Urology Clinic.

Full-time until 7/2018. Recredentialed as PRN in 5/2019 at Carolina's Hospital System.

• Served as a resource for nursing staff regarding anesthesia-related questions or concerns, fostering collaboration across departments.
• Stayed current with advancements in anesthesia practices through continuing education courses and professional development opportunities.
• Ensured availability of necessary equipment and medications for each procedure, contributing to seamless surgical experiences for both patients and staff.

Worked independently as a CRNA in a Endoscopy Suite/office setting in Atlanta, GA. Worked 1099, left to take a W2 position at a hospital.

• Served as a resource for nursing staff regarding anesthesia-related questions or concerns, fostering collaboration across departments.
• Stayed current with advancements in anesthesia practices through continuing education courses and professional development opportunities.
• Increased efficiency in the operating room by managing airway devices and ensuring proper placement of intravenous lines.
• Started as a new graduate CRNA and worked with seasoned CRNA's that helped me become a self-confident, highly competent practitioner.

• Directed care for patients in ICU, including implementation of treatment plan, monitoring vitals and administering medications.
• Monitored and managed various treatment and care interventions.
• Updated physicians on patient test results and assisted in developing care plans.
• Performed blood and blood product transfusions and intravenous infusions to address patient symptoms or underlying causes.
• Monitored and recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
• Administered medications, tracked dosages and documented patient conditions.
• Advocated for patients by supporting and respecting basic rights, values and beliefs.
• Supervised nurse administration of oral, intramuscular and IV medications to patients as prescribed, monitoring responses for adverse reactions.

• Utilized strong critical thinking skills to rapidly assess patients'' conditions during high-stress situations while remaining calm under pressure.
• Participated in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing patient safety, satisfaction, and overall Emergency Department efficiency.
• Provided emotional support to patients experiencing trauma or medical emergencies, ensuring a positive and compassionate environment.

• Maintained up-to-date knowledge on advancements in critical care nursing through continuing education opportunities and professional affiliations.
• Implemented individualized care plans based on thorough assessment data, regularly evaluating plan effectiveness and adjusting as needed to promote optimal recovery trajectories.
• Supported family members during challenging times, offering emotional support, resources, and clear explanations of complex medical conditions to alleviate anxieties surrounding the critical care experience.
• Mentored new nurses, offering guidance on best practices and fostering a supportive learning environment within the critical care setting.

- Started as a new graduate in CVICU/CCU. Was part of a 6 month internship which included both classes and clinical in cardiac and trauma.