Daquasean Smith RN (pronounced DocWa-Shon)

• Staffing agencies contract work for various 12- to 14-week assignments at various skilled nursing facilities, special needs schools, corrections facilities, and private duty 1:1 care for IDD children with challenging behaviors.
• Supervised LPNs and CNAs, and ensured all ADLs were provided for residents. Daily staffing issues and assignments of staff to meet state guidelines for staff-to-patient ratios.
• Administered medications and treatments as directed by healthcare providers.
• Coordinated patient admissions, discharges, and transfers within the healthcare facility.
• Assisted in patient assessments, documenting health status and care needs.
• Maintained accurate electronic health records in compliance with regulations.

• Provided care to both general and geriatric psych patients.
• Administered medication and monitored patient responses in psychiatric settings.
• Documented patient progress and maintained accurate health records consistently.
• Provided crisis intervention and support during acute psychiatric episodes.
• Provided direct patient care for patients suffering from mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
• Provided guidance to staff on how best to interact with geriatric patients in a compassionate manner.

Performed direct care and supervisory roles in the care of children and adults with severe intellectual and developmental disabilities.

• Monitored patient vital signs and reported changes to the healthcare team.
• Assisted in the development of individualized care plans for patients.
• Assisted in the development of IEPs for children.
• Maintained accurate patient records and documentation in electronic systems.
• Administered medications, both PO and via G or G/J tube, and administered treatments as directed by healthcare providers.
• Maintained a safe environment for both staff and residents through adherence to safety protocols.
• Advocated for residents, especially nonverbal individuals, by supporting and respecting basic rights, values, and beliefs.

• Assisted with wound care, ensuring proper techniques and infection control measures were followed.
• Monitored patient vital signs and reported changes to the healthcare team promptly.
• Assessed, planned, implemented and evaluated nursing care for assigned patients.
• Documented patient progress notes accurately and efficiently in the electronic medical record system.
• Collected lab specimens, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests and lab results.
• Monitored patients after surgery, answered questions, and provided home care strategies.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment.
• Educated patients and families on health care needs, conditions, and options.

• Provided home health care to IDD children in both home and school settings
• Educated parents and families on health management and wellness practices.
• Administered medications and treatments as directed by healthcare providers.
• Communicated concerns regarding patients' status, care and environment to nursing supervisors, clinical care supervisors
• Educated parents about child development milestones and encouraged positive parenting skills.
• Identified potential problems with medication management in the home setting for pediatric clients.
• Managed various nursing tasks for medically fragile children, which included administering medication, cleaning wounds, and monitoring blood glucose levels.
• Utilized well-honed communication skills to deliver information to pediatric patients and family members regarding treatment, care and medical options.
• Coordinated care with classroom teachers and paraeducators in a school setting.

• Contracted through an outside agency to work one-on-one at the school with a student who was legally blind and had C.H.A.R.G.E. syndrome.
• Assisted in daily living activities for a visually impaired child.
• Collaborated with educators to support students' health needs.
• Maintained accurate medical records and documentation for students.
• Accompanied students on orientation and mobility trips, as well as field trips.
• Administered medications and treatments per individualized care plans.
• Observed changes in the student's condition and reported any significant changes to the registered nurse or physician.

• Staffing agencies work at various skilled nursing facilities and outpatient clinics throughout Pittsburgh.
• Adhered to facility policies and procedures while providing quality nursing care.
• Monitored patient's respiration activity, blood pressure and blood glucose levels in response to medical administration.
• Administered medications and treatments as prescribed by healthcare providers.
• Observed changes in patient's condition and reported any significant changes to the registered nurse or physician.
• Monitored vital signs, fluid intake and output levels, glucose levels, and other medical tests results.
• Used sterile techniques for wound care

• Provided direct patient care under supervision of registered nurses.
• Monitored vital signs and documented patient information accurately.
• Supported patients with daily living activities and mobility assistance.
• Utilized paper charting, health records, for efficient documentation of patient care activities.
• Administered medications and treatments according to established protocols.
• Communicated concerns regarding patients' status, care, and environment to nursing supervisors and clinical care supervisors.
• Provided emotional support to patients dealing with illness or injury related issues.
• Assisted patients with personal hygiene activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, grooming, and toileting needs.