Deanna Acosta
Castle Rock,CO
Summary
Compassionate and detail-oriented Registered Nurse with extensive experience in emergency observation and acute behavioral health, supported by a solid foundation in physical therapy and orthotics. Proficient in rapid assessment, therapeutic communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring the delivery of safe, evidence-based, patient-centered care. Strong advocate for optimal outcomes in both acute and specialized healthcare settings, demonstrating reliability and adaptability in dynamic environments. Committed to fostering teamwork and enhancing patient care through critical thinking and effective communication skills.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Registered Nurse/ Relief Charge– Emergency Department Observation Unit
Denver Health
Denver, CO
02.2024 - Current
- Provide direct patient care for individuals requiring extended evaluation and monitoring following emergency department admission.
- Administer medications, IV therapies, and coordinate diagnostic testing in a fast-paced clinical environment.
- Facilitate smooth transitions of care between emergency, observation, inpatient, and discharge settings.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement evidence-based nursing practices.
- Educated patients and families on treatment plans, ensuring understanding and compliance for optimal health results.
- Utilized critical thinking skills to prioritize nursing interventions based on patients'' acuity levels and individual needs.
- Assisted in the training and mentorship of new nursing staff members, contributing to a positive work environment and high-quality patient care.
Nurse Apprentice – Acute Eating Disorder Unit
Denver Health
Denver, CO
01.2022 - 02.2024
- Supported nursing staff in the care of patients with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and ARFID.
- Provided therapeutic communication and emotional support to patients undergoing recovery.
- Collaborated with nurses, dietitians, and mental health professionals to reinforce individualized treatment plans.
- Monitored vital signs, reporting changes to registered nurses for timely interventions.
- Supported medication administration under supervision, enhancing understanding of pharmacological principles.
Certified Orthotic Fitter
Horizon Prosthetics
Erie, CO
08.2019 - 01.2022
- Fitted and supplied orthotic devices for inpatient and outpatient populations.
- Educated patients on proper use, maintenance, and care of orthotic devices.
- Managed documentation for insurance authorizations and patient records.
- Assessed patient needs to recommend appropriate orthotic solutions.
Physical Therapist Assistant
First Steps Physical Therapy & Colorado Athletic Conditioning Clinic
Aurora, CO
05.2013 - 08.2019
- Delivered in-home pediatric therapy and outpatient post-surgical/sports rehabilitation.
- Educated patients and families on safe mobility, exercise programs, and recovery techniques.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams and assisted in training new physical therapist assistants.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Nursing
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver, CO12-2023
Associate of Applied Science - Physical Therapist Assistant
Arapahoe Community College
Littleton, CO05-2014
Certification
- Registered Nurse, State Board of Nursing – License #RN.1694871
- Physical Therapist Assistant, State Board of Physical Therapy - License #PTA.0013422
- Basic Life Support (BLS) – American Heart Association
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) – American Heart Association
Timeline
Registered Nurse/ Relief Charge– Emergency Department Observation Unit
Denver Health
02.2024 - Current
Nurse Apprentice – Acute Eating Disorder Unit
Denver Health
01.2022 - 02.2024
Certified Orthotic Fitter
Horizon Prosthetics
08.2019 - 01.2022
Physical Therapist Assistant
First Steps Physical Therapy & Colorado Athletic Conditioning Clinic
05.2013 - 08.2019
Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Nursing
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Associate of Applied Science - Physical Therapist Assistant
Arapahoe Community College