Deanna L. Nichols
Baytown,Texas
Summary
Dynamic and results-driven professional development leader with a proven track record of fostering growth and enhancing team performance within accredited hospital systems. Expertise in designing and implementing innovative training programs that elevate staff competencies and improve patient care outcomes. Committed to cultivating a collaborative environment that empowers healthcare professionals to excel in their roles. Seeking to leverage extensive experience in leadership and strategic planning to drive organizational success and support the mission of a respected healthcare institution.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Professional Development Leader
Houston Methodist Baytown / Central Education Department
Baytown, Texas
03.2020 - Current
- Achieved successful onboarding and training of clinical staff through effective management of the learning management system and new employee orientation programs. Delivered high-quality instruction as lead faculty for ACLS, BLS, PALS, and RQI courses, enhancing staff competencies. Improved patient care outcomes by validating skills in advanced care, phlebotomy, EKG, delirium management, advanced pain management, epidurals, IV therapy for LVNs, and radiology restraints, aligning with hospital accreditation standards.
RN
Houston Methodist Baytown / PACU
Baytown, Texas
09.2013 - 03.2020
- Achieved high standards in patient care as evening charge nurse in 14-bed PACU. Fostered nursing excellence through Magnet champion initiatives. Enhanced team skills as preceptor and competency validator. Streamlined scheduling for four units while contributing to shared governance efforts.
- Administered post-anesthesia care to patients, ensuring safety and comfort during recovery.
- Trained and mentored new nursing staff on PACU protocols and best practices.
- Implemented evidence-based practices to improve patient outcomes in the recovery unit.
RN
Houston Methodist San Jacinto / IMCU
Baytown, Texas
10.2011 - 09.2013
- RN in 7 bed IMCU Lead Charge Nurse 7A-7P, Preceptor, Magnet Champion, Scheduler
RN
Houston Methodist San Jacinto / ICU/SICU
Baytown, Texas
04.2004 - 10.2011
- RN in 24 bed ICU/SICU, Chemotherapy nurse for ICU patients, Preceptor for new hires, Performs duties of charge RN occasionally.
RN
San Jacinto Methodist Hospital 3West
Baytown, Texas
11.1998 - 04.2004
- RN in busy Med/Surgical unit, Primary Charge 11-7, Preceptor for new hires and new graduate nurses, Member of Code Team
Education
Master of Science - Nursing / Education
University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
Galveston, Texas12-2020
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
Galveston, Texas12-2002
Associate Degree - Science of Nursing
Florida Community College of Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida05-1998
Skills
- A highly effective Nursing Professional who meets challenges head on and creates positive change An energetic, creative, team-player, with a proven record of success helping to develop and lead teams to achieve outstanding results in the rapidly evolving medical industry
- Leadership qualities
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Clinical expertise
- Interprofessional collaboration
- Evidence-based practice
- Simulation training
- Teaching strategies
Accomplishments
Imagine Nursing Quality and Innovation Symposium:
Poster Presenter 5/2024
Houston Methodist 2023 Nursing Awards- Outstanding Nursing Innovation Excellence in Nursing Good Samaritan 2022 Bronze Winner
Top 150 Nurses in Houston 2022
Houston Methodist ICARE Award 2021
Texas Nurses District 9 Nursing Hero 2021
Affiliations
- American Society of Peri Anesthesia Nurses
- American Delirium Society
- Texas Association of Peri Anesthesia Nurses
Certification
- NPD-BC- Nursing Professional Development – current through 3/17/2027
- CPAN – Certified Post Anesthesia Nurse – current through 10/31/2027
- ACLS Instructor – Advanced Cardiac Life Support – renewal date – 1/2027
- PALS Instructor – Pediatric Advanced Life Support – renewal date – 4/2026
- BLS Instructor – Basic Life Support – renewal date – 2/2028
Timeline
Professional Development Leader
Houston Methodist Baytown / Central Education Department
03.2020 - Current
RN
Houston Methodist Baytown / PACU
09.2013 - 03.2020
RN
Houston Methodist San Jacinto / IMCU
10.2011 - 09.2013
RN
Houston Methodist San Jacinto / ICU/SICU
04.2004 - 10.2011
RN
San Jacinto Methodist Hospital 3West
11.1998 - 04.2004
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
Associate Degree - Science of Nursing
Florida Community College of Jacksonville
Master of Science - Nursing / Education
University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
AWARDS & HONORS
Houston Methodist 2023 Nursing Awards- Outstanding Nursing Innovation, Excellence in Nursing Good Samaritan 2022 Bronze Winner, Top 150 Nurses in Houston 2022, ICARE Award 2021, Texas Nurses District 9 Nursing Hero 2021
LEADERSHIP
- AHA Instructor Faculty
- HMB Delirium Lead
- Magnet Champion
- Fall Champion
- Learning Management system content designer
- Ancillary Staff Mentor
- Competency Educator