DAWN COPELAND
Nashville,AR
Summary
Registered Nurse and Nurse Leader with over 20 years of progressive clinical and leadership experience, providing patient-centered care across public health, rehabilitative, and skilled clinical environments. Highly skilled in patient assessment, care coordination, education, chronic disease management, emergency response, and regulatory compliance. Known for a calm, approachable demeanor, strong documentation skills, and the ability to work independently in high-responsibility settings. Seeking a clinical role, possibly outside of the long-term care setting.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Assistant Director of Nursing
The Pines Nursing and Rehab
Hot Springs, AR
11.2024 - 11.2025
- Developed training programs to enhance clinical skills and knowledge among staff.
- Managed nursing schedules to ensure adequate coverage at all times.
- Facilitated communication between families and healthcare providers to address resident needs.
- Implemented quality improvement initiatives, enhancing patient care standards.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to create best practices for patient care.
- Introduced infection control measures aligned with established protocols.
- Conducted investigations into incidents reported by staff or patients.
Clinical Nurse Leader
Nashville Nursing and Rehab
Nashville, AR
02.2003 - 11.2024
- Maintained departmental policies and infection control standards to ensure compliance.
- Reviewed charts for accuracy, reducing errors and verifying updates.
- Educated patients and families on health management and rehabilitation strategies.
- Conducted training sessions on clinical protocols and best nursing practices.
- Utilized electronic health records for precise documentation and streamlined communication.
- Monitored quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes.
- Led recruiting processes to build a skilled nursing workforce.
- Managed employee review processes to improve performance evaluations.
- Monitored patient progress and adjusted care strategies based on evaluation findings.
- Educated patients and families on health management and recovery options.
- Conducted clinical assessments to evaluate patient needs and develop appropriate interventions.
- Facilitated communication between healthcare providers to streamline care delivery processes.
- Managed financial resources allocated for unit equipment or supplies while ensuring they are used efficiently and effectively.
- Conducted educational sessions for nurses regarding clinical practices, standards of care and professional development.
- Attended meetings with hospital administrators, attending physicians, directors of nursing services to discuss current issues in the department and unit.
- Developed, implemented and evaluated evidence-based practice protocols.
- Utilized technology systems such as EMRs or electronic health records to document findings accurately.
- Coordinated daily operations of assigned unit or department.
- Served as a resource person for nursing staff providing guidance and support related to clinical issues.
- Reviewed medical records for accuracy, completeness and compliance with established regulations.
- Provided patients and loved ones with information about conditions, treatments, possible outcomes and at-home care.
RN Charge Nurse
Dierks Nursing Center
Dierks, AR
09.1998 - 08.2001
- Administered medications and treatments according to physician orders and protocols.
- Educated patients and families on health management and discharge procedures.
- Assisted in wound care, ensuring proper infection control measures were followed.
- Utilized critical thinking skills to assess clinical situations quickly and accurately.
Public Health Nurse
Howard County Health Unit
Nashville, AR
04.1999 - 03.2000
- Conducted health assessments for diverse populations in community settings.
- Developed educational materials on disease prevention and health promotion.
- Provided immunizations and preventive care services to clients of all ages.
- Educated families on managing chronic conditions and healthy lifestyles.
- Implemented infection control measures within various healthcare facilities.
- Attended continuing education programs related to public health topics.
- Maintained accurate records of patient encounters according to HIPAA guidelines.
- Assessed clients' eligibility for federal and state benefits programs.
- Coordinated with physicians and other healthcare professionals regarding client care plans.
Education
Associate of Science - Nursing
Southern Arkansas University
Magnolia, AR, USA01.1998
Skills
- Training program development
- Quality improvement
- Infection control
- Electronic health records
- Patient education
- Multidisciplinary collaboration
- Resource management
- Compliance enforcement
- Continuous assessment
- Effective communication
- Critical thinking
- Budget management
- Recruitment and hiring
- Public relations
- Leadership and guidance
- Issue resolution
- EMR software proficiency
- First aid and CPR certification
- Supply monitoring
- Immunizations
- Treatment implementation
- Accurate documentation
- Problem-solving abilities
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Task prioritization
Certification
CDC Certified Infection Control Preventionist
Accomplishments
Selected Nurse Leader of the Year by Arkansas Healthcare Association
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Assistant Director of Nursing
The Pines Nursing and Rehab
11.2024 - 11.2025
Clinical Nurse Leader
Nashville Nursing and Rehab
02.2003 - 11.2024
Public Health Nurse
Howard County Health Unit
04.1999 - 03.2000
RN Charge Nurse
Dierks Nursing Center
09.1998 - 08.2001
Associate of Science - Nursing
Southern Arkansas University