Dawna Cash

Caring for critically ill patients in SICU, MICU Trauma ICU requiring extensive monitoring and ongoing assessments. Patients on ventilators, post craniotomies, and other Neuro interventions including stroke interventions, post cardiac intervention, and other post sugery patients including trauma surgery and vascular surgery. Hanging and maintaining High risk iv medications such as Norepinephrine, Phenylephrine, Vasopressin, Dobutamine, Amiodorone, Precedex, versed, Propofol, Fentanyl, Nicardipine, Cardizem, Epinephrine, Heparin, Aggrastat, and others. Hemodynamic monitoring such as CVP, catheters, art lines, EVD,s, lumbar drains, heparin protocols. Most any patient requiring an ICU admission other than CABG patients, I have taken care of.

• 
  Experienced ER nurse with nursing travel agency
  BLS, ACLS, PALS,TNCC,
• Performed assessments and triaged patients based on acuity level.
• Ensured patient safety by monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and providing effective pain management.
• Provided detailed instructions to families regarding post-discharge care.
• Conducted health promotion activities for the general public in an effort to reduce emergency room visits.
• Assisted physicians with procedures such as intubations, central line insertions, chest tube insertions, lumbar punctures, and suturing of wounds.
• Maintained accurate documentation of patient records in accordance with hospital policy.
• Managed multiple high stress situations while maintaining a calm demeanor and providing quality care to all patients.
• Utilized critical thinking skills to assess emergent conditions and initiate appropriate interventions in a timely manner.
• Provided education to family members about disease processes, medications, nutrition.
• Implemented policies and procedures related to infection control standards within the Emergency Room setting.
• Communicated effectively with other departments throughout the hospital such as laboratory services or radiology departments when ordering tests or obtaining results.
• Responded quickly during code blue events while following established protocols.
• Rendered direct patient care by stabilizing patients and determining course of action based on triage.
• Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injury and illnesses.
• Stabilized patients, determined health needs and provided direct patient care.
• Administered critical IV medications to stabilize patients for assessment and treatment.
• Triaged and treated high-volume caseload in busy emergency room setting.
• Treated patients by administering various types of medications and therapies.
• Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
• Cared for patients experiencing acute traumas, including cardiac arrests, strokes and gunshot wounds.
• Supported criminal inquiries by reporting injuries and completing evidence collection kits.
• Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
• Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
• Administered local, inhalation or intravenous anesthetics to patients undergoing procedures.
• Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.

• BLS, ACLS, PALS,TNCC,
  
  Staff nurse in fast paced level 2 trauma, including pediatric trauma,
• Performed triage, prioritizing treatment of incoming patients based on acuity level.
• Managed intravenous lines, wound dressings, catheters, and other medical devices.
• Responded quickly to life-threatening situations while maintaining composure under pressure.
• Assisted in the preparation of trauma victims for transfer or discharge from the hospital.
• Triaged and treated high-volume caseload in busy emergency room setting.
• Administered critical IV medications to stabilize patients for assessment and treatment.
• Responded quickly to codes and coordinated efficient and skilled care.
• Treated patients by administering various types of medications and therapies.
• Maintained comprehensive base of unit supplies to meet expected patient demands, public health emergencies and mass casualty incidences.
• Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
• Cared for patients experiencing acute traumas, including cardiac arrests, strokes and gunshot wounds.
• Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
• Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.

• Staff nurse in cardiac based ER as agency staff nurse
• Staff nurse of well known SC heart hospital. Pts of all ages with many different illnesses, with primary focus on cardiac pts, Chest Pain, AMI, STEMI
  BLS/ACLS?PALS, iv's, cardiac monitoring, etc,
• Performed initial assessment of patients in the Emergency Department, including vital signs and medical history.
• Assessed changes in patient condition and notified physician as needed.
• Utilized evidence-based practice guidelines for appropriate nursing interventions.
• Administered medications, intravenous fluids, treatments, and other therapies as prescribed by physicians.
• Monitored cardiac rhythm strips and titrated vasoactive medications as ordered by physicians.
• Assisted with diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds.
• Maintained accurate records of all assessments, treatments, medications administered, and other pertinent information related to patient's care.
• Responded quickly to life-threatening situations utilizing advanced emergency skills.
• Provided emotional support for patients and their families during times of stress.
• Ensured proper handling of specimens for laboratory testing.
• Participated in educational activities such as seminars or classes related to emergency nursing practices.
• Triaged and treated high-volume caseload in busy emergency room setting.
• Responded quickly to codes and coordinated efficient and skilled care.
• Treated patients by administering various types of medications and therapies.
• Administered critical IV medications to stabilize patients for assessment and treatment.
• Recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
• Coordinated care with physicians and other clinical staff to prepare for treatment, carry out interventions and enhance continuum of care.
• Conducted patient assessments and diagnostic tests to provide physician with important patient health information.
• Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
• Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
• Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.

• ER nurse in fast pace 15 bed er. Pts were of all ages, illnesses, and acuities. C/o varied from general cough/cold to full blown cardiac arrest and trauma. Pediatric codes, ob/gyn complaints, chest pain, thrombolytics, copd exacerbations requiring ventilators, strokes requiring thrombolytics, eye c/o, orthopedic injuries, conscious sedation, art lines, central lines, catheters, pace makers, cardiac monitoring, caring for Inpatient holds when no beds available upstairs
  ACLS/PALS/BLS
• Utilized critical thinking skills to assess clinical situations quickly and accurately.
• Assisted physicians during examinations or surgical procedures.
• Developed educational materials for use in teaching sessions with patients or their families.
• Evaluated effectiveness of interventions through ongoing assessment of patient responses.
• Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
• Administered medications and treatments, monitoring patients for reactions and side effects.
• Documented and initiated tests, scan and other orders.
• Maintained thorough, accurate and confidential documentation in electronic medical records.
• Recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
• Monitored and managed various treatment and care interventions.
• Administered medications, tracked dosages and documented patient conditions.
• Input details about patient histories, physical examinations, medications and other information into physical or electronic charts.
• Collected lab specimens, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests and lab results.
• Oversaw patient admission and discharge processes to coordinate related paperwork.

• 
  Staff nurse in busy, fast paced 17 bed ER Stroke and Chest pain center. ACLS/PALS/BLS certified. Strokes, cardiac arrests, chest pains with acute mi's, copd pts requiring RSI and ventilators, pediatric arrests(too many), abuse, failure to thrive, seizure pts actively seizing, clincic pts, cough/cold, abd pain, vagial bleeding and ob c/o, vomiting, overdoses, gang shootings, locking down ER, stab wounds, saw accidents, falls, head injuries, etc. Cardiac monitoring, resp tx, iv's, medications, intubation, etc, Anything that can come throught the doors u have to be ready for.
  
• Performed assessments and triaged patients based on acuity level.
• Ensured patient safety by monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and providing effective pain management.
• Provided detailed instructions to families regarding post-discharge care.
• Conducted health promotion activities for the general public in an effort to reduce emergency room visits.
• Assisted physicians with procedures such as intubations, central line insertions, chest tube insertions, lumbar punctures, and suturing of wounds.
• Maintained accurate documentation of patient records in accordance with hospital policy.
• Managed multiple high stress situations while maintaining a calm demeanor and providing quality care to all patients.
• Utilized critical thinking skills to assess emergent conditions and initiate appropriate interventions in a timely manner.
• Coordinated discharge planning including follow up appointments and home health orders as needed.
• Provided education to family members about disease processes, medications, nutrition.
• Communicated effectively with other departments throughout the hospital such as laboratory services or radiology departments when ordering tests or obtaining results.
• Responded quickly during code blue events while following established protocols.
• Rendered direct patient care by stabilizing patients and determining course of action based on triage.
• Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injury and illnesses.
• Stabilized patients, determined health needs and provided direct patient care.
• Responded quickly to codes and coordinated efficient and skilled care.
• Administered critical IV medications to stabilize patients for assessment and treatment.
• Triaged and treated high-volume caseload in busy emergency room setting.
• Coordinated care with physicians and other clinical staff to prepare for treatment, carry out interventions and enhance continuum of care.
• Conducted patient assessments and diagnostic tests to provide physician with important patient health information.
• Recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
• Maintained comprehensive base of unit supplies to meet expected patient demands, public health emergencies and mass casualty incidences.
• Treated patients by administering various types of medications and therapies.
• Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
• Cared for patients experiencing acute traumas, including cardiac arrests, strokes and gunshot wounds.
• Supported criminal inquiries by reporting injuries and completing evidence collection kits.
• Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
• Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
• Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
• Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
• Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
• Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
• Administered local, inhalation or intravenous anesthetics to patients undergoing procedures.
• Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
• Modified patient treatment plans as indicated by patients' responses and conditions.
• ACLS/PALS/BLS, IV's, Central lines, RSI, Trauma stableization, Communication, teamwork, critical care pt's, Resp care, Assesments and concurrent tx, conscious sedation

• Caring for critically ill patients requiring cardiac monitoring, high risk iv medications such as nitro, dopamine, neosynephrine. Pt's on ventilators and diprivan drips for sedation. Hemodynamic monitoring such as cvp's, swanz ganz catheters, art lines. Cardiac pt's including acute mi's requiring cardioversion, thrombolytics, cardizem or amiodorone drips, dobutamine, integrillin, ntg, betablocker protocols, heparin protocols. Copd pt's requiring RSI sedatives and paralytics. Basic cp r/o mi's requiring workup and monitoring. Etoh pt's in dt's requiring restraints and sedation for safety purposes. Suicidal pt's requiring 1 on 1 monitoring for safety until transferred to psych facility.
  ACLS/PALS/BLS,
• Assessed, monitored and evaluated patient's condition in the ICU.
• Provided direct care to critically ill patients including administering medications, performing treatments and providing emotional support.
• Collaborated with physicians and other healthcare professionals to develop individualized treatment plans for each patient.
• Ensured appropriate documentation of patient care activities according to established standards.
• Performed diagnostic tests such as EKGs, arterial blood gases, chest X-rays and lab work.
• Maintained accurate records of vital signs, fluid intake and output levels, daily weights and laboratory results.
• Responded promptly to changes in a patient's condition by initiating life saving interventions as needed.
• Managed ventilators, tracheostomy tubes and intravenous lines while monitoring oxygenation levels and hemodynamic parameters.
• Monitored cardiac rhythms on telemetry monitors; recognized arrhythmias and initiated corrective measures when necessary.
• Counseled patients' families regarding end-of-life decisions, health maintenance or any other relevant topics related to their loved ones' care plan.
• Participated in interdisciplinary rounds to discuss best practices for current patients in the ICU setting.
• Performed bedside procedures such as wound dressing changes, nasogastric tube placement or insertion of urinary catheters as required.
• Initiated early mobilization protocols for immobile patients requiring critical care services.
• Administered parenteral nutrition according to physician orders while closely monitoring electrolyte balance.
• Assisted physicians during invasive procedures such as intubations or bronchoscopies.
• Implemented infection control policies within the ICU environment ensuring optimal safety for both staff members and patients alike.
• Developed relationships with families of long term ICU residents by offering emotional support throughout their stay.
• Assessed ICU patients each shift to ascertain vitals and key information.
• Delivered optimum treatments to critical-care patients following prescribed rules, policies, protocol and procedures.
• Developed and maintained professional relationship with members of health care team, patient and patient's family.
• Completed patient assessments, triaged and recorded patient histories, symptoms and observations.
• Established and implemented nursing care plans for each patient using protocols of assessment, development, activation and evaluation.
• Monitored patients' respiration activity, blood pressure and blood glucose levels in response to medical administration.
• 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.
• Worked with patients and families to provide in-hospital and after-hospital follow-up through teaching and referrals.
• Maintained records, prepared reports and served on special committees.
• Detected emerging problems by monitoring patients' behavior, vital signs and fluid intake and output.
• Supervised cardiac monitors, mechanical ventilators and alarms and oxygen delivery devices.
• Evaluated patient vital signs and laboratory data to assess needs and provide emergency interventions.
• Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
• Identified abnormal and critical respiratory patterns through direct pulmonary assessments.
• Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
• Kept track of patients' changing pain levels and proactively worked to minimize excess pain or discomfort.

• 
  Home visits to patients who were homebound(temporary or permanner) and required nursing care. Duties included wound and colostomy care, IV and IV infusions(including chemotherapy and dobutamine), foley catheter management, veinipuncture for labwork, central line management, medication teaching and management, diabetic and chf management and education, insulin injections and teaching, post CABG teaching and rehab, injections, supervising cna's, teaching families how to perform wound care, iv care, ostomy care, etc. Interacting with physicians requarding plans of care, orders, treatment progress, medication changes, etc
  Paperwork included creating plan of care for each individual pt and obtaining orders from physicians to carry them out, weekly wound measurements and documentation, ordering and providing supplies, regular team meetings with other services such as PT, OT, ST, MSW to discuss pt's needs.progress, concerns, and how to provide them with it. Shared call for after hours
• Provided home health care services such as wound care, medication administration, and IV therapy.
• Assessed patient health by conducting physical examinations and evaluating medical histories.
• Developed personalized care plans for patients based on individual needs.
• Educated patients and families about disease management, lifestyle changes, nutrition, and preventive healthcare measures.
• Administering medications according to physician orders and monitoring side effects of medications.
• Instructed family members in basic nursing skills including wound care, injections, catheterization, and other treatments as ordered by the physician.
• Performed assessments of the patient's physical condition to determine their level of function and need for assistance with activities of daily living.
• Monitored vital signs such as blood pressure or pulse rate to detect any changes in a patient's condition.
• Provided emotional support and counseling to patients facing difficult decisions regarding their health care options.
• Initiated referrals to appropriate community resources when needed.
• Coordinated patient discharge planning with physicians, social workers, case managers, therapists, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals involved in the patient's care plan.
• Maintained accurate records of all visits made to patients' homes along with any changes in their conditions or treatments prescribed by physicians.
• Ensured quality assurance standards are met through regular chart audits and review processes.
• Collaborated with local agencies to ensure continuity of care upon discharge from home health services.
• Adhered strictly to infection control protocols while caring for clients in their homes.
• Responded promptly to emergency calls from clients needing urgent attention at home.
• Addressed patient care needs, collected vitals, dressed wounds and managed catheters.
• Conducted regular re-evaluations to address changes in needs and conditions, and introduced revisions to care plans.
• Charted changes in patient conditions and discussed concerns with supervising healthcare provider.
• Completed initial assessments of patients and family to determine and address individual home care needs.
• Assisted patients with activities of daily living and functional mobility to increase comfort and quality of life.
• Participated in on-call rotations and delivered after-hours care.
• Answered patient calls, identified issues and determined how best to provide assistance within parameters established by facility and supervisor.
• Administered prescribed medications and started intravenous fluids to address patient symptoms and underlying etiologies.
• Supported patients with activities of daily living and functional mobility to improve comfort and quality of life and reduce pain.
• Collected biological samples for routine laboratory testing to assist diagnostic processes.
• Coordinated with healthcare team to establish, enact and evaluate patient care plans.
• Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
• Delivered information regarding care and medications to patients and caregivers in comprehendible terminology.
• Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
• Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
• Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
• Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
• Monitored diet, physical activity, behaviors and other patient factors to assess conditions and adjust treatment plans.
• Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
• Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.
• Collaborated with health groups to plan or implement programs designed to improve overall health of communities.
• Modified patient treatment plans as indicated by patients' responses and conditions.

• Staff nurse on stepdown cardiathoracic surgery unit
  Pt care involved recovering 24-48 hour post op Cabg pt's with IV's, pacer wires, chest tubes who required cardiac monitoring, IV medications, assistance and motivation to increase ADL's and activity to prevent postoperative complications. Some required interventions for cardiac arrythmias, cardiac tamponade, or chf, making frequent assessments of heart and lung sounds very important.
  
• ACLS/BLS, Cardiac monitoring and assessments, chest tubes, meds,
• Assessed patient's cardiac rhythm and vital signs using telemetry monitoring equipment.
• Monitored and evaluated patient's responses to medications and treatments.
• Provided direct nursing care to patients in accordance with established policies, procedures, and standards of practice.
• Analyzed data collected from telemetry monitors for changes in heart rate, rhythm, respiration, blood pressure, and other vital signs.
• Responded quickly to changes in a patient's condition by notifying the physician or taking appropriate action based on established protocols.
• Instructed patients on proper use of telemetry monitoring equipment including alarms and safety features.
• Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to develop comprehensive plans of care for each patient.
• Performed routine maintenance checks on all telemetry monitoring equipment as needed.
• Conducted educational sessions with staff regarding proper use of telemetry monitoring systems and alarm management techniques.
• Promoted safe environment by adhering to infection control policies and procedures when dealing with telemetry equipment.
• Participated in quality improvement initiatives related to Telemetry Nursing Care Practices.
• Contributed to the development of protocols for Telemetry Nursing Care Practices across the organization.
• Evaluated patient satisfaction scores related to Telemetry Nursing Care Practices.
• Communicated effectively with physicians regarding changes in a patient's condition monitored via Telemetry System.
• Maintained accurate documentation of all assessments, interventions, treatments, medications administered., according to policy guidelines.
• Developed individualized plans of care that reflect current evidence-based practice guidelines for each assigned patient.
• Reviewed medical records prior to administering any treatments or medications as ordered by physician.
• Maintained a clean work area free from clutter or debris which could interfere with operations of telemetry system.
• Identified potential risks associated with use of telemetry monitoring systems such as electrical shock hazards or interference from external sources.
• Read and interpreted lab test result values to develop, monitor and adjust care.
• Provided support and guidance to less experienced nurses regarding use of telemetry system components.
• Conducted patient tests and administered medications.
• Communicated with patients and family members to explain conditions and medications.
• Assessed and evaluated assigned patients to facilitate diagnoses and implement focused care.
• Documented nursing care and patient response to treatment in EHR system.
• Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
• Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
• Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
• Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
• Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
• Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
• Coordinated with healthcare team to establish, enact and evaluate patient care plans.
• Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
• Delivered information regarding care and medications to patients and caregivers in comprehendible terminology.
• Monitored diet, physical activity, behaviors and other patient factors to assess conditions and adjust treatment plans.
• Modified patient treatment plans as indicated by patients' responses and conditions.
• Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
• Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
• Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
• Collaborated with health groups to plan or implement programs designed to improve overall health of communities.
• Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
• Administered local, inhalation or intravenous anesthetics to patients undergoing procedures.

• Charge nurse-Hemodialysis
  
  Charge nurse
  Responsible for the day to day running of free standing dialysis unit and supervisiong dialysis techs. Duties included accessing pt's dialysis av grafts, shunts, central lines, vas caths, etc inorder to connect them to the dialysis machine. Pt's were connected to dialysis machine programmed to pt's own fluid volume, weight, potassium and calcium levels, etc and required monitoring them during their entire time of treatment due to risks of hypotension, seizures, blood sugar drops, etc. Pt's "dialysis prescriptions" were changed as needed depending on wt gain or loss, monthly lab results, dialysis clearance(how well blood is cleaned), and fluid volumes of each pt.
  These numbers were calculated by the charge nurse monthly for review of nephrologist. Monthly medication reviews, dispensing of medications, diet education, etc were just a few charge nurse responsibilites. Infection control was another one, hep c and hiv pts ran on certain machines and had to be cleaned and disinfected differently from other machines and dialyzers.
  Accessing and drawing blood from ESRD pt's/ fluid and electryte balance
• Provided direct patient care, including assessing and monitoring vital signs, initiating and managing dialysis treatments, administering medications, and reporting changes in patient condition.
• Maintained accurate records of patient progress notes, laboratory results, treatment plans, and other pertinent information.
• Assisted in training new nurses on the technical aspects of dialysis treatments.
• Assessed patient's physical condition prior to each dialysis session.
• Monitored patients during dialysis sessions for any adverse reactions or complications.
• Educated patients and family members about disease processes, treatments options and self-care management techniques.
• Collaborated with interdisciplinary team to develop individualized plan of care for each patient.
• Managed daily operations of the Dialysis Unit by overseeing staffing levels, scheduling staff shifts, ensuring adequate supplies are available.
• Ensured all equipment used is properly maintained as per manufacturer guidelines.
• Provided direction to nursing staff regarding appropriate interventions based on assessment findings.
• Coordinated with physicians regarding patient care decisions including determining when a patient should be referred for further evaluation or hospitalization.
• Served as a resource for colleagues seeking guidance on complex clinical issues.
• Actively participated in unit quality improvement initiatives.
• Consulted with specialists from other departments regarding specialized treatments or therapies that may be beneficial for certain patients.
• Attached dialyzer and tubing to dialysis machines for use in hemodialysis treatment.
• Updated medical records with current vitals, behavioral observations and medication details.
• Supervised dialysis treatments for patients aging from child to adult in community hospital setting.
• Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
• Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
• Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
• Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
• Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
• Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
• Coordinated with healthcare team to establish, enact and evaluate patient care plans.
• Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
• Delivered information regarding care and medications to patients and caregivers in comprehendible terminology.
• Monitored diet, physical activity, behaviors and other patient factors to assess conditions and adjust treatment plans.
• Modified patient treatment plans as indicated by patients' responses and conditions.
• Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
• Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
• Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
• Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.
• Collaborated with health groups to plan or implement programs designed to improve overall health of communities.
• Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.

• Started out as nurse tech on this unit during first year of nursing school, and continued on the floor as an Graduate RN when I graduated nursing school in May 1991
  
• This was a 39 bed unit. Working nights, ther was a 13:1 pt/nurse ratio. Most of the pt's on this floor were total care pt's requiring turning every 2 hours, cleaning, mouth care, foley care/placement, trach care, wound/decubitus care, etc. Other pts were post surgical appendectomies, open gall bladders, colon resections, colostomies, cancer pt's receiving chemo and reverse isolation, end stage HIV in reverse isolation with pneumocistis or pseudomonas, esrd pt's requiring peritoneal dialyisis exchanges. Some were specialty care nursing home pt's waiting for beds that would take pt's with trachesotomies, colostomies, wounds, etc. IVF's and iv abx were standard as was blood transfusions, occasional code blues, and pre-ops.
  IV's/medication administration/peritoneal dialysis/wound care/assessment/discharge planning,
• Provided patient care and education to patients with chronic illnesses.
• Assessed, planned, implemented and evaluated nursing care for assigned patients.
• Administered medications and treatments according to physician orders.
• Monitored vital signs, administered injections, and provided assistance with medical procedures.
• Documented patient progress notes accurately and efficiently in the electronic medical record system.
• Collaborated with physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers and other healthcare professionals to develop individualized treatment plans for each patient.
• Instructed patients on proper self-care techniques at home following discharge from the hospital.
• 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.
• Actively participated in quality improvement initiatives within the department.
• Utilized critical thinking skills to assess clinical situations quickly and accurately.
• Maintained a safe environment for all patients by adhering to infection control policies and procedures.
• Provided emotional support and comfort to families during difficult times.
• Counseled patients regarding medication side effects or lifestyle changes necessary for improved health outcomes.
• Assisted physicians during examinations or surgical procedures.
• Developed educational materials for use in teaching sessions with patients or their families.
• Coordinated discharge planning activities including arranging follow up appointments or referrals for additional services.
• Evaluated effectiveness of interventions through ongoing assessment of patient responses.
• Administered medications and treatments, monitoring patients for reactions and side effects.
• Adhered to infection control procedures to facilitate safe, clean patient environment.
• Evaluated patients, recognized and addressed complications and coordinated treatment with other members of critical care team.