Dawn Capozzoli
Eighty Four,PA
Summary
Dynamic triage nurse with expertise in assessment techniques and electronic health records. Proven ability to enhance patient education and engagement. Strong collaborator with healthcare teams to deliver optimal patient care outcomes.
Overview
41
41
years of professional experience
Work History
After Hours Triage Nurse
Preferred Primary Care Physicians
Canonsburg, Pennsylvania
11.2020 - Current
- Assessed patient conditions and prioritized care based on urgency.
- Educated patients on treatment plans and provided necessary health resources.
- Documented patient interactions accurately in electronic health records systems.
- Trained new nursing staff on triage protocols and best practices.
- Answered incoming patient calls, gathering history and symptoms to determine scope of medical complaints.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of current nursing practices and procedures through continuing education courses, workshops, in-services, seminars, conferences.
- Provided emotional support during difficult times while maintaining a professional demeanor at all times.
- Rendered telephone advice according to established guidelines and protocols.
- Assessed patients' health condition and determined the level of care needed.
- Instructed patients on self-care techniques, medications, diet plans, disease processes.
- Educated staff members on triage protocols and best practices for managing acutely ill patients.
- Collaborated with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure quality patient care.
- Analyzed discussed symptoms with established protocols to determine patient acuity.
- Utilized EHR systems effectively for documentation purposes in accordance with HIPAA regulations.
- Identified symptoms, gathered medical history, and documented patient information accurately.
- Reviewed medical chart and requested appointments, prescriptions and consultations for urgent needs.
- Ensured compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, policies, guidelines and standards of practice related to triage nursing duties.
- Documented services discussed and provided details in electronic medical records.
- Maintained confidentiality in matters related to patient, family and client facility staff.
- Collected data to represent symptom onset, presenting problem and medical diagnoses.
- Cultivated professional conduct operating under triage nursing care guidelines.
Registered Nurse
St. Clair Hospital
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
09.2008 - 11.2020
- Administered medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians.
- Monitored patient vital signs and reported changes to medical team.
- Educated patients and families on health management and recovery strategies.
- Implemented infection control protocols to maintain patient safety standards.
- Assisted in emergency response situations, providing critical care as needed.
- Documented patient progress and updates in electronic health records system.
- Trained new nursing staff on hospital procedures and best practices.
- Utilized critical thinking skills to assess clinical situations quickly and accurately.
- Collaborated with physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers and other healthcare professionals to develop individualized treatment plans for each patient.
- Assessed, planned, implemented and evaluated nursing care for assigned patients.
- Maintained a safe environment for all patients by adhering to infection control policies and procedures.
- Monitored vital signs, administered injections, and provided assistance with medical procedures.
- Trained and mentored new RNs on best practices, hospital policies and standards of care.
- Documented patient progress notes accurately and efficiently in the electronic medical record system.
- Administered medications and treatments, monitoring patients for reactions and side effects.
- Advocated for patients by supporting and respecting basic rights, values, and beliefs.
- Evaluated effectiveness of interventions through ongoing assessment of patient responses.
- Evaluated patients, recognized and addressed complications and coordinated treatment with other members of critical care team.
- Adhered to infection control procedures to facilitate safe, clean patient environment.
- Maintained thorough, accurate and confidential documentation in electronic medical records.
- Recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
- Provided emotional support and comfort to families during difficult times.
- Provided patient care and education to patients with chronic illnesses.
- Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
- Collected lab specimens, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests and lab results.
- Provided patient and family health education focusing on self-management, prevention and wellness.
- Counseled patients regarding medication side effects or lifestyle changes necessary for improved health outcomes.
- Monitored patients after surgery, answered questions, and provided home care strategies.
- Maintained personal and team compliance with medication administration standards and patient care best practices.
- Ensured compliance with standards of professional practice as well as state and federal regulations related to health care delivery services.
- Demonstrated knowledge of current trends in nursing practices by attending continuing education classes or seminars.
- Conducted intake assessments with patients and relatives to gather case history.
- Actively participated in quality improvement initiatives within the department.
- Performed triage assessments of walk-in patients in a clinic setting.
- Educated patients and families on health care needs, conditions, and options.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment.
- Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
- Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
- Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
- Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
- Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
- Achieved departmental goals and objectives by instituting new processes and standards for in-patient care.
Transplant Coordinator
UPMC Presbyterian
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
05.2008 - 09.2008
- Coordinated patient evaluations for organ transplant eligibility and prioritization.
- Facilitated communication between medical teams and patients to ensure clear understanding of transplant processes.
- Developed educational materials for patients about transplant procedures and care.
- Collaborated with donor networks to ensure timely organ procurement.
- Organized multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient care strategies.
- Maintained accurate patient records using electronic health systems for compliance.
- Supported families during the emotional challenges of the transplant journey.
- Participated in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss complex cases involving ethical considerations.
- Ensured compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements pertaining to transplantation services.
- Reviewed medical records to assess eligibility criteria for potential donors and recipients, ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Developed and implemented policies and procedures related to transplantation services.
- Monitored patient progress throughout transplant process to identify needs and facilitate timely interventions.
- Obtained informed consent from prospective organ donors and recipients.
- Assisted in the coordination of organ donor and recipient matching processes.
- Analyzed and interpreted patients' histories, symptoms and diagnostic information to develop appropriate diagnoses.
Registered Nurse
Pittsburgh Gastroenterology Associates
Upper St. Clair, PA
02.2004 - 05.2008
- Administered medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians.
- Monitored patient vital signs and reported changes to medical team.
- Educated patients and families on health management and recovery strategies.
- Implemented infection control protocols to maintain patient safety standards.
- Assisted in emergency response situations, providing critical care as needed.
- Documented patient progress and updates in electronic health records system.
- Utilized critical thinking skills to assess clinical situations quickly and accurately.
- Assessed, planned, implemented and evaluated nursing care for assigned patients.
- Maintained a safe environment for all patients by adhering to infection control policies and procedures.
- Monitored vital signs, administered injections, and provided assistance with medical procedures.
- Documented patient progress notes accurately and efficiently in the electronic medical record system.
- Administered medications and treatments, monitoring patients for reactions and side effects.
- Evaluated effectiveness of interventions through ongoing assessment of patient responses.
- Evaluated patients, recognized and addressed complications and coordinated treatment with other members of critical care team.
- Adhered to infection control procedures to facilitate safe, clean patient environment.
- Maintained thorough, accurate and confidential documentation in electronic medical records.
- Recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
- Provided emotional support and comfort to families during difficult times.
- Provided patient care and education to patients with chronic illnesses.
- Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
- Updated charts throughout shifts with current, accurate information to maintain strict recordkeeping standards.
- Oversaw patient admission and discharge processes to coordinate related paperwork.
- Provided patient and family health education focusing on self-management, prevention and wellness.
- Counseled patients regarding medication side effects or lifestyle changes necessary for improved health outcomes.
- Monitored patients after surgery, answered questions, and provided home care strategies.
- Maintained personal and team compliance with medication administration standards and patient care best practices.
- Ensured compliance with standards of professional practice as well as state and federal regulations related to health care delivery services.
- Coordinated discharge planning activities including arranging follow up appointments or referrals for additional services.
- Conducted intake assessments with patients and relatives to gather case history.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment.
- Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
- Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
- Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
- Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
- Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
- Achieved departmental goals and objectives by instituting new processes and standards for in-patient care.
Registered Nurse
UPMC Presbyterian
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
08.1998 - 02.2004
- Administered medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians.
- Administered critical care treatments to patients in life-threatening conditions.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop patient care plans.
- Monitored vital signs and adjusted interventions as needed for patient stability.
- Educated families on critical care processes and emotional support strategies.
- Utilized advanced monitoring equipment to assess patient health status accurately.
- Documented patient progress and interventions in electronic health records consistently.
- Led code blue responses, coordinating efforts among healthcare staff effectively.
- Trained new nurses on critical care protocols and best practices, enhancing team competency and patient care standards.
- Administered emergency resuscitative measures according to advanced cardiac life support protocols, ensuring timely interventions during critical situations.
- Mentored new nurses on practices and procedures to drive patient outcome goals.
- Provided direct nursing care to critically ill patients in accordance with established policies, procedures, and standards of practice.
- Treated patients with a broad range of acute, life-threatening diagnoses.
- Performed medical treatments such as administering medications, intravenous fluids, and blood transfusions.
- Assisted physicians with diagnostic tests, therapeutic procedures, and other medical interventions.
- Utilized evidence-based practice guidelines while providing nursing interventions for critically ill patients.
- Maintained accurate records of patient assessments, treatments provided, medication administration times and dosages prescribed by physicians.
- Participated in multidisciplinary rounds to discuss and implement best practices, improving critical care management outcomes.
- Prioritized patient care assignments based on patient conditions to achieve optimal outcomes.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary healthcare professionals to create, implement, and adapt individualized care plans.
- Identified changes in patient conditions and reported them to the supervising physician immediately.
- Administered care to patients suffering from catastrophic traumatic injuries.
- Collaborated with other healthcare team members regarding treatment plans for each patient served.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of treatments and therapies administered to patients.
- Assessed patients, documented observations and reviewed patient charts to determine care needs.
- Educated family members on post-discharge care instructions for their loved ones.
- Managed PA catheters and arterials, vasoactive drug administration and titration, thrombolytic therapy, dysrhythmia interpretation, and chest tube management.
- Developed individualized plans of care based upon assessment findings that addressed the needs of each patient served.
- Provided compassionate end-of-life care to terminally ill patients.
- Provided direct care in surgical, cardiac and neurological critical care units.
- Actively participated in quality improvement initiatives designed to improve outcomes for critically ill patients.
- Monitored vital signs including heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, and blood pressure.
- Provided emotional support to families during difficult situations involving critical illness or end-of-life care decisions.
- Instructed patients, families and caregivers on diagnoses, chronic disease management and medication self-management.
- Instructed students on proper techniques related to critical care nursing skills.
- Assessed patient's physical and emotional condition on a daily basis.
- Collaborated with doctors to plan post-treatment home care and prevent return hospitalization.
- Managed the administration of blood products and monitored patients for adverse reactions.
- Operated and monitored life support systems and medical devices specific to the critical care setting.
- Advocated for patients, ensuring their needs and preferences were communicated to the healthcare team.
- Ensured strict compliance with infection control protocols to protect patients, staff, and visitors.
- Maintained detailed patient records, documenting care provided and patient progress.
- Administered medications and treatments as prescribed, ensuring compliance with healthcare protocols.
- Facilitated communication between patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
- Engaged in professional development activities to stay current with advancements in critical care nursing.
- Managed the care of patients on mechanical ventilation, optimizing respiratory function and monitoring for complications.
- Assisted in the orientation and mentoring of new nursing staff, enhancing team capabilities.
- Conducted thorough patient assessments to identify healthcare needs and potential complications.
- Provided emotional support and comfort to family members during difficult times.
- Utilized a wide range of medical equipment, including ventilators and intravenous (IV) pumps, to support patient care.
- Applied evidence-based practices to wound care, preventing infections and promoting healing.
- Monitored patient vital signs, assessing and responding to changes in patient conditions promptly.
- Provided comprehensive care to critically ill patients, including those with complex medical and surgical conditions.
- Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
- Supervised cardiac monitors, mechanical ventilators and alarms and oxygen delivery devices.
- Detected emerging problems by monitoring patients' behavior, vital signs and fluid intake and output.
- Identified abnormal and critical respiratory patterns through direct pulmonary assessments.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Delivered information regarding care and medications to patients and caregivers in comprehensible terminology.
- Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
Registered Nurse
Ohio Valley Hospital
McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania
03.1995 - 06.1998
- Managed critical patient care in fast-paced intensive care unit environment.
- Administered medications and monitored patient responses consistently.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement care plans.
- Educated patients and families on treatment options and recovery processes.
- Utilized electronic health records for accurate patient documentation and data management.
- Assessed patients' conditions through comprehensive physical examinations regularly.
- Implemented infection control protocols to maintain a safe care environment.
- Performed bedside procedures such as wound dressing changes, catheterizations, IV starts and changes, tracheostomy care.
- Maintained accurate documentation of patient assessments, treatments, and medications administered in electronic medical record system.
- Collaborated with other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care.
- Responded quickly and effectively to code blue situations for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and advanced cardiac life support.
- Provided care to critically ill patients in a fast-paced environment.
- Developed strong relationships with interdisciplinary teams throughout hospital departments.
- Coordinated with multidisciplinary team members to develop individualized plans of care for each patient.
- Administered medications and treatments according to established protocols.
- Prioritized multiple tasks while maintaining excellent standards of care delivery.
- Monitored ventilator settings and adjusted them according to physician orders or established protocols.
- Assessed patient's condition and monitored vital signs.
- Assisted with end-of-life decisions by providing guidance and education regarding available options.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of nursing interventions through ongoing assessment of patient responses and outcomes.
- Participated in quality improvement activities aimed at improving the overall standard of care provided to ICU patients.
- Provided emotional support to family members during difficult times.
- Demonstrated effective communication skills when interacting with patients and families.
- Recognized changes in patient conditions, promptly notified physicians, and implemented appropriate interventions as necessary.
- Completed patient assessments, triaged and recorded patient histories, symptoms and observations.
- Assessed ICU patients each shift to ascertain vitals and key information.
- Developed and maintained professional relationship with members of health care team, patient, and patient's family.
- Helped monitor, maintain and improve nursing-sensitive indicators, core measures and other identified outcome metrics.
- Achieved best possible outcomes for nursing sensitive indicators, core measures, HCAPS, patient satisfaction and associate satisfaction.
- Provided emotional support and education to patients' families, helping them navigate complex medical information.
- Assisted in the performance of diagnostic tests and interpreted results to guide nursing care.
- Administered medications, monitored dosages, and observed patient reactions in a high-stakes environment.
- Managed patient pain and discomfort through effective pain management strategies, enhancing patient comfort.
- Implemented infection control measures to prevent the spread of infections within the ICU.
- Operated and maintained life support systems and other medical equipment with precision and care.
- Responded to life-saving situations using appropriate resuscitation techniques and emergency protocols.
- Managed comprehensive care for critically ill patients, ensuring adherence to ICU protocols and guidelines.
- Supervised cardiac monitors, mechanical ventilators and alarms and oxygen delivery devices.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Detected emerging problems by monitoring patients' behavior, vital signs and fluid intake and output.
- Checked on patients regularly to track progress with treatments, changes in symptoms and need for emergency interventions.
- Identified abnormal and critical respiratory patterns through direct pulmonary assessments.
- Kept track of patients' changing pain levels and proactively worked to minimize excess pain or discomfort.
Registered Nurse, Intensive Care Unit
Allegheny General Hospital
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
09.1990 - 03.1995
- Managed critical patient care in fast-paced intensive care unit environment.
- Administered medications and monitored patient responses consistently.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement care plans.
- Educated patients and families on treatment options and recovery processes.
- Trained and mentored junior nurses in advanced clinical practices.
- Utilized electronic health records for accurate patient documentation and data management.
- Assessed patients' conditions through comprehensive physical examinations regularly.
- Implemented infection control protocols to maintain a safe care environment.
- Performed bedside procedures such as wound dressing changes, catheterizations, IV starts and changes, tracheostomy care.
- Maintained accurate documentation of patient assessments, treatments, and medications administered in electronic medical record system.
- Collaborated with other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care.
- Responded quickly and effectively to code blue situations for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and advanced cardiac life support.
- Provided care to critically ill patients in a fast-paced environment.
- Developed strong relationships with interdisciplinary teams throughout hospital departments.
- Coordinated with multidisciplinary team members to develop individualized plans of care for each patient.
- Administered medications and treatments according to established protocols.
- Prioritized multiple tasks while maintaining excellent standards of care delivery.
- Monitored ventilator settings and adjusted according to physician orders or established protocols.
- Assessed patient's condition and monitored vital signs.
- Assisted with end-of-life decisions by providing guidance and education regarding available options.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of nursing interventions through ongoing assessment of patient responses and outcomes.
- Provided emotional support to family members during difficult times.
- Demonstrated effective communication skills when interacting with patients and families.
- Recognized changes in patient conditions, promptly notified physicians, and implemented appropriate interventions as necessary.
- Completed patient assessments, triaged and recorded patient histories, symptoms and observations.
- Assessed ICU patients each shift to ascertain vitals and key information.
- Developed and maintained professional relationship with members of healthcare team, patient, and patient's family.
- Helped monitor, maintain and improve nursing-sensitive indicators, core measures and other identified outcome metrics.
- Achieved best possible outcomes for nursing sensitive indicators, core measures, HCAPS, patient satisfaction and associate satisfaction.
- Provided emotional support and education to patients' families, helping them navigate complex medical information.
- Participated in clinical rounds with physicians, offering insights from nursing perspective to inform patient care decisions.
- Assisted in the performance of diagnostic tests and interpreted results to guide nursing care.
- Administered medications, monitored dosages, and observed patient reactions in a high-stakes environment.
- Coordinated discharge planning, ensuring patients transitioned safely from ICU to next level of care.
- Managed patient pain and discomfort through effective pain management strategies, enhancing patient comfort.
- Implemented infection control measures to prevent the spread of infections within the ICU.
- Operated and maintained life support systems and other medical equipment with precision and care.
- Advocated for patient needs and preferences, acting as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare providers.
- Responded to life-saving situations using appropriate resuscitation techniques and emergency protocols.
- Managed comprehensive care for critically ill patients, ensuring adherence to ICU protocols and guidelines.
- Supervised cardiac monitors, mechanical ventilators and alarms and oxygen delivery devices.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Detected emerging problems by monitoring patients' behavior, vital signs and fluid intake and output.
- Checked on patients regularly to track progress with treatments, changes in symptoms and need for emergency interventions.
- Identified abnormal and critical respiratory patterns through direct pulmonary assessments.
- Kept track of patients' changing pain levels and proactively worked to minimize excess pain or discomfort.
Registered Nurse, Intensive Care Unit
St. Clair Hospital
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
05.1986 - 09.1990
- Managed critical patient care in fast-paced intensive care unit environment.
- Administered medications and monitored patient responses consistently.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement care plans.
- Educated patients and families on treatment options and recovery processes.
- Trained and mentored junior nurses in advanced clinical practices.
- Utilized electronic health records for accurate patient documentation and data management.
- Assessed patients' conditions through comprehensive physical examinations regularly.
- Implemented infection control protocols to maintain a safe care environment.
- Performed bedside procedures such as wound dressing changes, catheterizations, IV starts and changes, tracheostomy care.
- Maintained accurate documentation of patient assessments, treatments, and medications administered in electronic medical record system.
- Collaborated with other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care.
- Responded quickly and effectively to code blue situations for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and advanced cardiac life support.
- Provided care to critically ill patients in a fast-paced environment.
- Developed strong relationships with interdisciplinary teams throughout hospital departments.
- Coordinated with multidisciplinary team members to develop individualized plans of care for each patient.
- Administered medications and treatments according to established protocols.
- Prioritized multiple tasks while maintaining excellent standards of care delivery.
- Monitored ventilator settings and adjusted as needed according to physician orders or established protocols.
- Assessed patient's condition and monitored vital signs.
- Assisted with end-of-life decisions by providing guidance and education regarding available options.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of nursing interventions through ongoing assessment of patient responses and outcomes.
- Participated in quality improvement activities aimed at improving the overall standard of care provided to ICU patients.
- Provided emotional support to family members during difficult times.
- Demonstrated effective communication skills when interacting with patients and families.
- Recognized changes in patient conditions, promptly notified physicians, and implemented appropriate interventions as necessary.
- Completed patient assessments, triaged and recorded patient histories, symptoms and observations.
- Functioned as charge nurse and assumed patient care in absence of nurses ending or arriving for shifts.
- Assessed ICU patients each shift to ascertain vitals and key information.
- Developed and maintained professional relationship with members of health care team, patient, and patient's family.
- Helped monitor, maintain and improve nursing-sensitive indicators, core measures and other identified outcome metrics.
- Achieved best possible outcomes for nursing sensitive indicators, core measures, HCAPS, patient satisfaction and associate satisfaction.
- Provided emotional support and education to patients' families, helping them navigate complex medical information.
- Participated in clinical rounds with physicians, offering insights from nursing perspective to inform patient care decisions.
- Assisted in the performance of diagnostic tests and interpreted results to guide nursing care.
- Conducted research and participated in educational opportunities to remain at the forefront of critical care nursing.
- Administered medications, monitored dosages, and observed patient reactions in a high-stakes environment.
- Coordinated discharge planning, ensuring patients transitioned safely from ICU to next level of care.
- Trained new nursing staff and students, sharing knowledge and best practices in critical care nursing.
- Managed patient pain and discomfort through effective pain management strategies, enhancing patient comfort.
- Led initiatives to improve patient safety and quality of care, staying updated with the latest ICU practices and technologies.
- Contributed to the development and revision of ICU policies and procedures to improve patient outcomes and workflow efficiency.
- Implemented infection control measures to prevent the spread of infections within the ICU.
- Operated and maintained life support systems and other medical equipment with precision and care.
- Advocated for patient needs and preferences, acting as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare providers.
- Responded to life-saving situations using appropriate resuscitation techniques and emergency protocols.
- Managed comprehensive care for critically ill patients, ensuring adherence to ICU protocols and guidelines.
- Supervised cardiac monitors, mechanical ventilators and alarms and oxygen delivery devices.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Detected emerging problems by monitoring patients' behavior, vital signs and fluid intake and output.
- Checked on patients regularly to track progress with treatments, changes in symptoms and need for emergency interventions.
- Identified abnormal and critical respiratory patterns through direct pulmonary assessments.
- Kept track of patients' changing pain levels and proactively worked to minimize excess pain or discomfort.
Registered Nurse, Intensive Care Unit
Allegheny General Hospital
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
09.1985 - 05.1986
- Managed critical patient care in fast-paced intensive care unit environment.
- Administered medications and monitored patient responses consistently.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement care plans.
- Educated patients and families on treatment options and recovery processes.
- Trained and mentored junior nurses in advanced clinical practices.
- Utilized electronic health records for accurate patient documentation and data management.
- Assessed patients' conditions through comprehensive physical examinations regularly.
- Implemented infection control protocols to maintain a safe care environment.
- Performed bedside procedures such as wound dressing changes, catheterizations, IV starts and changes, tracheostomy care.
- Maintained accurate documentation of patient assessments, treatments, and medications administered in electronic medical record system.
- Collaborated with other healthcare professionals to ensure optimal patient care.
- Responded quickly and effectively to code blue situations for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and advanced cardiac life support.
- Provided care to critically ill patients in a fast-paced environment.
- Developed strong relationships with interdisciplinary teams throughout hospital departments.
- Coordinated with multidisciplinary team members to develop individualized plans of care for each patient.
- Prioritized multiple tasks while maintaining excellent standards of care delivery.
- Monitored ventilator settings and adjusted according to physician orders or established protocols.
- Assessed patient's condition and monitored vital signs.
- Participated in quality improvement activities aimed at improving the overall standard of care provided to ICU patients.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of nursing interventions through ongoing assessment of patient responses and outcomes.
- Provided emotional support to family members during difficult times.
- Demonstrated effective communication skills when interacting with patients and families.
- Recognized changes in patient conditions, promptly notified physicians, and implemented appropriate interventions as necessary.
- Completed patient assessments, triaged and recorded patient histories, symptoms and observations.
- Functioned as charge nurse and assumed patient care in absence of nurses ending or arriving for shifts.
- Assessed ICU patients each shift to ascertain vitals and key information.
- Developed and maintained professional relationship with members of health care team, patient, and patient's family.
- Helped monitor, maintain and improve nursing-sensitive indicators, core measures and other identified outcome metrics.
- Achieved best possible outcomes for nursing sensitive indicators, core measures, HCAPS, patient satisfaction and associate satisfaction.
- Provided emotional support and education to patients' families, helping them navigate complex medical information.
- Participated in clinical rounds with physicians, offering insights from nursing perspective to inform patient care decisions.
- Assisted in the performance of diagnostic tests and interpreted results to guide nursing care.
- Conducted research and participated in educational opportunities to remain at the forefront of critical care nursing.
- Administered medications, monitored dosages, and observed patient reactions in a high-stakes environment.
- Coordinated discharge planning, ensuring patients transitioned safely from ICU to next level of care.
- Trained new nursing staff and students, sharing knowledge and best practices in critical care nursing.
- Managed patient pain and discomfort through effective pain management strategies, enhancing patient comfort.
- Led initiatives to improve patient safety and quality of care, staying updated with the latest ICU practices and technologies.
- Contributed to the development and revision of ICU policies and procedures to improve patient outcomes and workflow efficiency.
- Implemented infection control measures to prevent the spread of infections within the ICU.
- Operated and maintained life support systems and other medical equipment with precision and care.
- Advocated for patient needs and preferences, acting as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare providers.
- Responded to life-saving situations using appropriate resuscitation techniques and emergency protocols.
- Managed comprehensive care for critically ill patients, ensuring adherence to ICU protocols and guidelines.
- Supervised cardiac monitors, mechanical ventilators and alarms and oxygen delivery devices.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Detected emerging problems by monitoring patients' behavior, vital signs and fluid intake and output.
- Identified abnormal and critical respiratory patterns through direct pulmonary assessments.
- Kept track of patients' changing pain levels and proactively worked to minimize excess pain or discomfort.
Education
Diploma - Registered Nurse
Mercy Hospital School of Nursing
Pittsburgh, PA08-1982
Skills
- Triage protocols
- Assessment techniques
- Telephonic triage
- Electronic health records
- Patient education
- Collaboration skills
Timeline
After Hours Triage Nurse
Preferred Primary Care Physicians
11.2020 - Current
Registered Nurse
St. Clair Hospital
09.2008 - 11.2020
Transplant Coordinator
UPMC Presbyterian
05.2008 - 09.2008
Registered Nurse
Pittsburgh Gastroenterology Associates
02.2004 - 05.2008
Registered Nurse
UPMC Presbyterian
08.1998 - 02.2004
Registered Nurse
Ohio Valley Hospital
03.1995 - 06.1998
Registered Nurse, Intensive Care Unit
Allegheny General Hospital
09.1990 - 03.1995
Registered Nurse, Intensive Care Unit
St. Clair Hospital
05.1986 - 09.1990
Registered Nurse, Intensive Care Unit
Allegheny General Hospital
09.1985 - 05.1986
Diploma - Registered Nurse
Mercy Hospital School of Nursing