DJ Edwards
Anchorage,AK
Summary
Dedicated and compassionate Cardiac ICU RN with a multi-dimensional career approach focused on high acuity care in a medically complex patient population. Proven to remain calm and decisive under pressure and to skillfully handle abruptly unstable patients in high-stress situations. Works directly with critical care, emergency physicians and APPs to execute comprehensive treatment in an ever-evolving environment. Consistently developing strong relationships with patients and families through empathetic communication and a respectful attitude.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Registered Nurse, Emergency Department
Providence Alaska Medical Center
Anchorage
10.2023 - 01.2024
- Conducted accurate assessments of patients upon arrival and triaged to appropriate level of care
- Enhanced patient satisfaction by delivering compassionate, culturally sensitive care tailored to individual needs and preferences.
- Actively engaged in the care of all ages of life including neonatal, pediatric, adult and geriatric populations.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary healthcare teams to develop comprehensive care plans for patients presenting with diverse medical conditions in the Emergency Department.
- Reduced patient wait times by efficiently triaging patients based on acuity levels and prioritizing urgent cases.
- Remained focused and grounded in fast-paced ER environment while providing clear and concise documentation for every patient encounter.
Registered Nurse, Cardiac ICU
ECU Health Medical Center
Greenville, North Carolina
07.2021 - 07.2023
- Ordered, interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient condition.
- Worked with intubated and ventilated patients, monitoring and reporting on conditions to maintain stats within optimal levels.
- Became well-versed in 12-lead EKG interpretation as well as quick recognition of any rhythm change of a patient during shift.
- Worked closely with respiratory therapists and would make vent changes depending on the pt's evolving condition
- Closely monitored patients on a plethora of potent drip medications
- Responded rapidly to critical codes throughout the entire 988 bed hospital to coordinate stabilization treatments and restore vital functions.
- Coordinated with physicians to perform bedside procedures such as intravenous injections, vascular line insertions and bronchoscopies.
- Collected blood, tissue and other laboratory specimens and prepared for lab testing.
- Promoted patient independence by teaching self-care skills.
- Completed diagnostic tests and patient assessments to evaluate treatment progress.
- Monitored patients' conditions and reported changes in physical presentation, appearance and behavior to discuss treatment with physicians.
- Managed needs of chronically ill and acute patients with well-coordinated treatment strategies.
Registered Nurse, Trauma Surgical Stepdown Unit
ECU Health Medical Center
Greenville, North Carolina
06.2020 - 06.2021
- Performed intravenous therapy procedures and monitored chest tubes and drains
- Implemented medication and IV administration, catheter insertion and airway management.
- Provided extensive wound care management
- Navigated through diverse patient populations including prisoners, hostile psychiatric patients, multi-ethnic groups, etc.
- Prepped patients for the OR and monitored vitals immediately post-op
- Worked extensively with orthopedic devices (external fixators, internal fixators, skeletal traction, etc.)
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Resurrection University
Chicago, IL04.2020
Bachelor of Science - Sports Journalism
The University of Tennessee - Knoxville
Knoxville, TN05.2017
Skills
- Vasopressor and sedation management and titration
- Bedside procedures (TEE, paracentesis, Endoscopies, Bronchoscopies, Intubation, Central-line insertions, etc)
- Cardiac Device Management (Impella, IABP, Transvenous Pacers, Femoral Sheaths, Swan Ganz Catheters, LVADs, TTM Protocol post-arrest, etc)
- Management of Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy machines
- Paralytic medication for vent compliance
- Massive Blood Transfusions
- Complex wound and drain management
- Ventilator management
- Neurological Exam post-stroke
- Prompt recognition and appropriate treatment of acute strokes and STEMIs
- Gunshot Wound Management
- Responsible for responding to codes throughout the hospital
- Precepting of new RNs
Accomplishments
- Preceptor
- Unit Council Member
Affiliations
- American Nurses Association (ANA)
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses
- Sigma Theta Tau Member
Certification
- BLS - Basic Life Support
- ACLS - Advanced Cardiac Life Support
- CCRN - Critical Care Registered Nurse
- PALS - Pediatric Advanced Life Support
Timeline
Registered Nurse, Emergency Department
Providence Alaska Medical Center
10.2023 - 01.2024
Registered Nurse, Cardiac ICU
ECU Health Medical Center
07.2021 - 07.2023
Registered Nurse, Trauma Surgical Stepdown Unit
ECU Health Medical Center
06.2020 - 06.2021
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Resurrection University
Bachelor of Science - Sports Journalism
The University of Tennessee - Knoxville