Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Accomplishments
Affiliations
Affiliations-Membership
Timeline
Generic

Dawn Andrews-Tipton

Hockley,TX

Summary

Compassionate healthcare professional with a background in nursing, known for high productivity and efficient task completion. Skilled in patient care management, emergency response, and infection control. Excel at communication, teamwork, and empathy, ensuring optimal patient outcomes and collaborative healthcare environments.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Infection Preventionist

St. Luke's The Woodlands Hospital
The Woodlands, Texas
05.2007 - Current

Infection Preventionist

· Management and oversight of Infection Prevention Program:

o Track, trend and investigate hospital acquired infection (HAI)

o Track and report notifiable conditions to the health department

o Infection Prevention Committee Meetings –prepared, organized, presented and coordinated the meetings.

o Develop and implement corrective action plans around HAI’s

o Report HAI’s to National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN)

o Hospital Inpatient Quality Report (IQR)

o CMS Clinical Data Abstraction Center(CDAC) Validation

o Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility (IFR)Quality Reporting

o Annual NHSN surveys

o Hospital Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Annual Risk Assessment

o Hospital IPC Annual Plan/Review

o Hospital Construction Infection Control Risk Assessments (ICRA)

· Educate staff and physicians on Infection and Control Practices that include hand hygiene, CAUTI, CLABSI, C. difficile, MRSA, surgical site infection, ventilator associated pneumonia and other hospital acquired infection.

· Educate staff and physicians on CMS and The Joint Commission requirements and participate in surveys.

· Tracers/physical environment audits to identify compliance with policies & procedures, and rules & regulations.

· Weekly and monthly unit rounding for adherence to regulations and hospital policies

· Committees: Antimicrobial Stewardship Program, Quality of Care & Patient Safety., Service Lines, Policy & Procedure, Patient Safety Coach, House Wide Sepsis, Regional CLABSI Task Force, HAI Regional Review, Dialysis Utilization & Review, Regional Infection Prevention, Water Management, Visionary Leadership Counsel, Environmental of Care, Pharmacy and Therapeutics

· Key Process Indicators (KPI) Report – reported weekly CAUTI, CLABSI, MRSA, C. difficile, Surgical site infections and Hand Hygiene compliance to leadership.

· Provided coverage for managing and running the daily Safety Huddle.

· Lead and facilitated Root Cause Analysis’s (RCA’s).

· Educated staff and physicians on DNV requirements.

· Prepared and participated in DNV surveys.

· Prepared The Woodlands, Springwoods Village and Lakeside Hospitals for the transition from DNV to The Joint Commission.

· Monitored Texas Preventable Adverse Events

· Lead and facilitated the Policy & Procedure Committee, made recommendations, and ensured policies and procedures are updated/revised as required.

· Maintained, updated, and revised patient care forms.

Perioperative Nurse

· Pre-Admission Testing Nurse

o Schedule pre-admission appointment with patients

o Obtained orders, labs, history and physical, and surgical clearances

o Performed verbal assessments with patients prior to admission in person and via telephone

o Preoperative care requirements through nursing process including assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation.

o Patient teaching and education

o Assessing for physical and psychological needs of patient

o Alert anesthesia of results of labs, physical assessment, or special needs of individual with

o medical problems prior to the date of surgery

o Communicate arrival time and NOP instructions

o Answered patient questions

o Charge Nurse

o Preceptor

o Developed patient care instructions for chlorhexidine bathing prior to surgery

· Pre-Operative

o Identification of patient

o Review orders for procedure and obtain informed consent

o Admission Assessment

o Review of Current Medication

o Start IV

o Trim procedural area when indicated

· Intra-Operative Endoscopy Procedural Area

o Identification of patient

o Prepping patient for procedure

o Universal Protocol- Timeout

o Collected and Labeled Specimens

o Provide report to the PACU nurse

· Post-Operative Care (Endoscopy patient, surgical patients and cardiac catheterization patients)

o Monitor patient vital signs, adapting readily to changing situations for patient directly out of procedure, surgery or cardiac catheterization

o Ensure vitals are within normal range

o Log all findings in patients’ chart

o Answer patients’ questions

o Ensured IVs are check

o Initiated patient education for patient and family

o Determine readiness of patient to be moved to their room or discharged

o Performed intervention duties as need in case of post-operative emergencies.

Patient Care Nurse

· Assessment of patient’s health conditions

· Record medical history and symptoms

· Administer medications as prescribed by doctor

· Monitor vital signs

· Provide education about treatment plans

· Coordinating care with other healthcare professionals

· Ensure comfort and safety by assisting with activities of daily living

· Wound care

· Multidisciplinary rounding

· Ran codes

Registered Nurse, Medical-Surgical Unit

Houston Northwest Medical Center, 801 Peakwood
Houston, Texas
05.2003 - 05.2007
  • Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
  • Performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation accurately and effectively.
  • Administered prescribed medications and treatments in accordance with approved nursing techniques.
  • Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
  • Developed positive relationships with patients to ensure quality holistic care was provided throughout the hospital stay.
  • Collaborated with health groups to plan or implement programs designed to improve overall health of communities.
  • Coordinated discharge planning to ensure continuity of care post-hospitalization.
  • Prioritized workloads according to urgency levels ensuring timely completion of assignments.
  • Maintained accurate documentation of patient information in electronic medical records system.
  • Delivered information regarding care and medications to patients and caregivers in comprehendible terminology.
  • Adhered to hospital policies and procedures while providing quality patient centered care.
  • Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
  • Assessed, monitored and documented patient progress on a daily basis.
  • Participated actively in unit meetings to discuss clinical issues related to patient outcomes, care plans, staffing concerns.
  • Demonstrated excellent interpersonal communication skills when interacting with patients, family members, physicians or other healthcare professionals.
  • Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
  • Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
  • Responded quickly and effectively to life threatening situations utilizing advanced cardiac life support protocols.
  • Assessed and prepared patients for procedures, performing initial and ongoing patient assessments.
  • Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
  • Instructed patients and families in health promotion activities such as proper nutrition, wound care and disease prevention.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to develop individualized patient plans of care.
  • Promoted safe and calm environment for complex patients by keeping services, supplies and necessary equipment on hand.
  • Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
  • Utilized evidence based practice guidelines when making decisions regarding patient care needs.
  • Participated in continuing education programs to maintain professional licensure requirements.
  • Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining high standards of professional conduct.
  • Observed patient's heart rate, blood pressure and respiration for signs of distress.
  • Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
  • Provided compassionate end-of-life care for terminally ill patients and their families.
  • Ordered lab work or other diagnostic tests as needed to assess response to treatment or detect potential complications.
  • Monitored patients for adverse reactions during chemotherapy administration.
  • Provided guidance to nursing staff regarding appropriate handling of hazardous materials related to chemotherapy treatments.
  • Actively participated in continuing education programs related to chemotherapy treatment modalities.
  • Performed quality control tests on IV solutions to ensure safe delivery of medication.
  • Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
  • Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
  • Collaborated with physicians to develop a plan of care for each patient undergoing chemotherapy treatments.
  • Ensured compliance with safety standards set by governing bodies such as The Joint Commission and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
  • Administered intravenous medications in accordance with established protocols.
  • Managed inventory levels of supplies used in administering chemotherapeutic agents.
  • Supported family members during times when their loved one is receiving chemotherapy treatments.
  • Evaluated the effectiveness of chemotherapy regimens through periodic assessment of patient responses.
  • Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
  • Assessed patients prior to chemotherapy treatment and monitored vital signs throughout the process.
  • Advised physicians on appropriate use of endoscopy equipment for optimal results.
  • Provided care to patients with a variety of gastrointestinal issues including ulcers, GERD, IBD and colorectal cancer.
  • Performed endoscopic procedures such as gastroscopy, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, ERCP and other therapeutic interventions.
  • Monitored anesthesia during endoscopic procedures while assessing vital signs of the patient.
  • Reviewed patient reports for accuracy before release.
  • Utilized specialized tools such as forceps or snares to remove tissue samples or lesions from within the body cavity safely.
  • Educated families about endoscopic procedures and treatments available to their loved ones.
  • Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
  • Maintained accurate records of all endoscopic procedures performed along with any complications that may have occurred during the process.
  • Provided pre-operative and post-operative patient education.
  • Provided emotional support to patients and their families during difficult times.
  • Administered intravenous medications and monitored their effects on the patient.
  • Managed emergency situations quickly and efficiently ensuring positive outcomes for the patient.
  • Prioritized and organized tasks to efficiently accomplish service goals.
  • Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively.

Motor Transport Operator

United States Army
10.1994 - 08.1999
  • Performed pre-trip inspections on assigned vehicles to ensure they met safety requirements.
  • Loaded, secured, and unloaded cargo according to established procedures.
  • Completed routine inspections and daily preventive maintenance services.
  • Notified supervisors of defects, vehicle damage or traffic violations.
  • Performed daily vehicle maintenance by checking fluid levels, tire wear and brake integrity.
  • Cleaned interior and exterior of vehicles as needed during shift operations.
  • Worked well with dispatchers to communicate route and schedule changes.
  • Observed driving regulations and safety procedures, maintaining excellent safe driving record.
  • Adjusted load distribution as needed based on weight restrictions and road conditions.
  • Secured cargo against inclement weather, pilferage and possible damage.
  • Performed regular inspections and completed vehicle repairs.
  • Reported any incidents or accidents immediately upon occurrence.
  • Performed daily pre-trip inspections on vehicles to ensure safe operation on the roadways.
  • Inspected and maintained vehicle supplies and equipment to ensure vehicles remained in proper working condition.
  • Adhered strictly to all safety protocols when operating motor transport equipment.
  • Transported goods to and from specified destinations in accordance with delivery schedules.
  • Implemented daily DOT pre-trip inspections to reduce risks or delivery delays.
  • Coordinated with dispatch to receive updates, communicate efficient routes and convey delays.
  • Maintained safety and security of cargo, personnel and equipment in convoy.
  • Inspected vehicles for mechanical items and safety issues prior to operation.
  • Managed unexpected emergencies and route changes with calm and professionalism.
  • Conducted regular checks of fluid levels including oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brakes.
  • Operated all-wheel vehicles and equipment over variety of terrain and roadways for support of combat operations.
  • Drove defensively at all times in order to avoid potential hazards on the road.
  • Inspected truck before and after trips, ensuring all safety regulations were followed.
  • Transported hazardous materials safely following established guidelines.
  • Stayed current on tactical planning and defensive strategies.
  • Completed vehicle recoveries, private tows and involuntary retrievals in collaboration with businesses and police departments.
  • Participated in Division Combat Training Exercises.
  • Organized files, developed spreadsheets, faxed reports and scanned documents, maintaining front desk and reception area in neat and organized fashion.
  • Organized and maintained filing systems for physical and electronic documents, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality of records.
  • Managed office supplies inventory and placed orders when necessary.
  • Used voice recorder or notepad to compose and transcribe meeting minutes.
  • Compiled data from various sources into organized reports for review by management team.
  • Handled confidential documents in an organized fashion according to established protocol.
  • Facilitated communication between different departments within the organization.

Education

Master of Science - Mental Health Counseling

Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
05-2028

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

The University of Texas At Arlington
Arlington, TX
12-2014

Associate of Science - Nursing

Lone Star College
Tomball, TX
05-2003

Bachelor of Science - Psychology

Fayetteville State University
Fayetteville, NC
12-1998

Skills

  • Infection control expertise
  • Employee vaccination program
  • Quality improvement
  • Managing data
  • Collaboration
  • Antimicrobial stewardship
  • Surveillance
  • Overseeing isolation procedures
  • Leading meetings
  • Environmental hygiene
  • Control strategies
  • Isolation precautions
  • Healthcare-associated infections
  • Surveillance strategies
  • Conducting investigations
  • Prevention techniques
  • Infection monitoring
  • Leadership qualities
  • Patient safety advocacy
  • Infection prevention education
  • CDC policies
  • Infectious disease prevention
  • Regulatory Compliance
  • Environmental management strategies
  • Report writing
  • Developing prevention policies
  • Employee health
  • Public health procedures
  • Surveillance and monitoring
  • Public health awareness
  • Revising policies
  • Infection risk assessment
  • Healthcare regulations
  • Accident prevention
  • Regulatory reporting
  • Database management
  • Effective communication
  • Confidentiality maintenance
  • Powerpoint presentations
  • OSHA regulations
  • Auditing experience
  • Problem-solving aptitude
  • Flexible and adaptable
  • Excellent communication
  • Relationship building
  • PPE use
  • Computer skills
  • Friendly, positive attitude
  • Quality assurance

Certification

  • Registered Nurse, TX, 2003.
  • Certification in Infection Control (CIC), 2020.
  • Healthcare Accreditation Certification Program (HACP) 2024.

Accomplishments

  • Developed and implemented a checklist for the insertion and maintenance of indwelling urinary catheters to ensure compliance with best practices in Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections (CAUTI).
  • Developed and implemented a checklist for the insertion and maintenance of Central Venous Catheter Lines to ensure compliance with best practices in preventing Central Line-Associated Blood Stream Infections (CLABSI).
  • Play an intricate part in achieving accreditation from the Joint Commission for its Advanced Total Hip and Knee Replacement program in August 2024 at St. Luke's Health Lakeside Hospital

Affiliations

  • Patient safety coach.

Affiliations-Membership

  • Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC).
  • The Center for Improvement in Healthcare Quality (CIHQ).
  • American Counseling Association (ACA).

Timeline

Infection Preventionist

St. Luke's The Woodlands Hospital
05.2007 - Current

Registered Nurse, Medical-Surgical Unit

Houston Northwest Medical Center, 801 Peakwood
05.2003 - 05.2007

Motor Transport Operator

United States Army
10.1994 - 08.1999

Master of Science - Mental Health Counseling

Grand Canyon University

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

The University of Texas At Arlington

Associate of Science - Nursing

Lone Star College

Bachelor of Science - Psychology

Fayetteville State University
Dawn Andrews-Tipton