ERNESTINE DARBY LITTLEJOHN
Assistant Nurse Manager
Centreville,VA
Summary
Service-oriented Registered Nurse with extensive leadership experience in emergency and critical care. Developed performance improvement processes to enhance workflow and quality of care, while mentoring future nursing leaders. Recognized for initiatives that improve the Veteran Experience, underscoring a commitment to exceptional patient advocacy.
Overview
44
44
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Nurse Manager Emergency Room
Veterans Administration
Washington, DC
01.2019 - Current
- Manager of emergency room, responsible for daily operations, developed performance improvement processes to address emergency room metrics, delays, and workflow processes to improve quality of care and efficiency in the Emergency Department.
- Developed new staffing methodology to align with processes.
- Identified roles and responsibilities of nursing staff and technicians in new process.
- Developed We Care acronym to embrace a change in workplace culture, facilitate teamwork and improve the Veteran Experience.
- Responsible for auditing medical records, develop response to deficiencies in medical records.
- Evaluate and Respond to all JPRS and PATRs with action plan
Charge Nurse
Providence Hospital
12.2015 - 05.2019
- Responsible for care of patients coming to the emergency department with various cardiac, respiratory, Gastrointestinal, Surgical and Ophthalmology emergencies.
- Preceptor for new Nurses.
- Developed education program for new Nurses.
- Established Shared Governance Committees in the Emergency Department to improve nurse education and competency
- Ascension Health Corporation
Surgical Coordinator – Department of Anesthesia
Medstar Washington Hospital Center
Washington, DC
10.2011 - 12.2015
- Responsible for reviewing patients’ medical history to identify any potential risk of receiving general or monitored Anesthesia; optimize patient for planned surgical procedure.
- Anesthesia Coordinator in Admission Testing Center.
- Responsible for preparing medical record for anesthesia clearance, Coordinate with surgeons’ office to obtain necessary medical, pulmonary or cardiac clearance.
- Patient interview in person or via telephone to obtain medical history, give pre-op instructions before scheduled surgery.
- Service line included Ophthalmology, Plastics, GI, Thoracic, Cardiac, Interventional Radiology, Electrophysiology Procedure and Renal Transplant.
- Developed Performance Improvement Project for New Software introduced (Cerner) at WHC that caused major delays in processing patients and clearing them for surgery.
- Process improvement project identified problems with physician order entry day before surgery and processing orders morning of surgery.
- Time for processing orders for morning surgery decreased by 75% after problem identified.
- Eliminated ‘work around’ by surgeons’ office.
- I identified a problem related to new software that delayed preparation of medical record day before surgery.
- Multiple days of surgery delays due to glitch in software and surgeon order entry into system.
- Identification of problem and intervention by IT Department and Cerner Software allowed Admission Testing Center staff to process patients faster and more efficiently.
Clinical Nurse/ Charge Nurse
Washington Hospital Center
04.2006 - 09.2011
- Responsible for care of patients with medical, surgical and mental health emergencies.
- Trauma nurse in Level I Trauma Center.
- Preceptor for new nurses entering the emergency room.
- Served on the Patient Satisfaction Committee chaired by the Director of the Emergency Room.
- Developed a Power Point Presentation that is on the Interactive Learning Site (SITEL) at the hospital ‘Emergency Nursing-A Caring, Healing Approach'.
- Since the Development of this power point presentation viewing by new nurses is a Mandatory requirement.
- Served on several Hospital Wide Nursing Committees including Nursing Education, and Nursing Policies and Procedures.
- Obtained Certifications in Critical Care Nursing (CCRN), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), Certification in Emergency Nursing (CEN), and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).
Wellness Director
Baptist Senior Living
Washington, DC
03.2002 - 06.2004
- Oversaw wellness care teams to keep performance in compliance with safety standards and legal regulations.
- Established initial service plans in ECS and updated care strategies to flex with changing demands.
- Enhanced care quality and increased patient protections by eliminating knowledge gaps and improving staff performance.
- Managed nursing and personal care services offered to residents.
- Cultivated strong family support to maximize care outcomes for wellness approaches.
- Met care coverage demands by setting effective schedules and delegating assignments.
- Prepared and implemented budgets and strategic, operational, purchasing and maintenance plans.
- Launched wellness plans to reduce stress, boost morale and increase productivity.
- Selected and supervised event hosts and health, fitness and wellness practitioners.
- Conducted needs assessments and surveys to determine interest in wellness and fitness programs, events and services.
- Provided excellent service and attention to customers when face-to-face or through phone conversations.
- Utilized advanced technical skills and expertise to troubleshoot complex problems and implement solutions.
- Conducted testing of software and systems to ensure quality and reliability.
- Identified needs of customers promptly and efficiently.
Clinical Nurse
Greater South East Hospital
Washington , DC
05.1998 - 06.2002
- Analyzed, collected and recorded patient health data.
- Carried out comprehensive care focused on patient needs and meeting care goals.
- Collaborated with physicians and staff in other disciplines.
- Conducted physical examinations to make tentative diagnoses and treat patients.
- Facilitated patient communication, acting as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare providers.
- Utilized electronic health record systems to document patient care and outcomes accurately.
- Observed and reported symptoms, reactions and progress of each patient.
- Monitored patient vital signs and symptoms, adjusting nursing interventions as necessary.
- Managed the administration of blood and blood products, observing patients for adverse reactions.
- Led patient care conferences, advocating for patient needs and care preferences.
- Educated patients and their families on disease management, treatment plans, and preventive health practices.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to ensure cohesive patient care and treatment plans.
- Responded to medical emergencies, employing critical thinking and fast-paced decision-making skills.
- Utilized evidence-based practices to guide clinical decision-making and nursing care strategies.
- Provided direct patient care, including wound care, IV therapy, and assistance with daily activities.
- Coordinated with healthcare team members to assess, plan and evaluate patient care plans.
- Developed and implemented evidence-based care plans.
- Educated patients and family members about preventive health care and recovery.
- Advocated for patient rights and ethical care practices, ensuring patient dignity was maintained.
- Administered medications and treatments to residents per doctors' orders or CRNP orders.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing patient safety and healthcare delivery.
- Implemented infection control measures to prevent the spread of diseases within the healthcare facility.
- Administered medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians, ensuring adherence to hospital protocols.
- Supervised junior nursing staff and nursing students, providing mentorship and guidance.
- Participated in continuing education programs to maintain clinical competency and stay updated on healthcare advancements.
Emergency Department Nurse
Southern Maryland Hospital
Clinton, Md
03.1996 - 04.1997
- Instructed patients and caregivers or friends on proper care of injuries after treatment, educating on proper medication use, dressing changes, and signs of complications.
- Managed complete processing of patients from initial admission to discharge.
- Evaluated physical and psychological condition of incoming patients to identify nuances of protocols and treatments required for drugged or traumatized patients.
- Triaged incoming patients and communicated with doctors to encourage timely attention to urgent situations.
- Assisted licensed physicians in treating or evaluating patients as required to support treatment logistics and document cases in real time.
- Proposed interpretations of symptoms, suggested interventions and target outcomes in advance of physician consultation with patients.
- Supported criminal inquiries by reporting injuries and completing evidence collection kits.
- Responded quickly to codes and coordinated efficient and skilled care.
- Triaged and treated high-volume caseload in busy emergency room setting.
- Administered critical IV medications to stabilize patients for assessment and treatment.
- Cared for patients experiencing acute traumas, including cardiac arrests, strokes and gunshot wounds.
- Managed patient triage, prioritizing care based on severity of condition and available resources.
- Trained other nurses on patient care and daily tasks, supporting growth, and professional development.
- Led debriefing sessions following major incidents, contributing to an environment of continuous learning and improvement.
- Advocated for patient rights and ethical treatment, ensuring respect and dignity in patient care.
- Educated patients and families on disease management, prevention, and healthy lifestyle choices.
- Performed comprehensive assessments of patients presenting with a wide range of acute conditions in a high-volume emergency department.
- Utilized advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) and basic life support (BLS) techniques during critical situations.
- Implemented infection control measures to prevent the spread of contagious diseases within the emergency department.
- Documented all patient interactions, assessments, and interventions in electronic health records with accuracy.
- Observed nurse administration of oral, intramuscular, and IV medications to patients as prescribed, monitoring responses for adverse reactions.
- Administered medications, treatments, and vaccines as prescribed, adhering to strict safety protocols.
- Provided emotional support and guidance to patients and families during stressful situations.
Emergency/Trauma Registered Nurse
DC General Hospital
Washington, DC
06.1991 - 05.1996
- Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.
- Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
- Administered local, inhalation or intravenous anesthetics to patients undergoing procedures.
- Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
- Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
- Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
ICU- Critical Care Nurse- Cardiac Care Unit
Prince Georges Community Hospital
Prince Georges, MD
01.1991 - 03.1992
- Implemented treatment plans, monitored vitals and administered medications for patients in ICU.
- Monitored efficacy of nursing interventions and revised care plans based upon patient response.
- Assessed patient conditions, implemented care plans and reassessed conditions continuously.
- Identified significant health and medical risk factors with potential negative impacts on treatment plans.
- Distributed medications in accordance with patients' medical charts.
- Alerted physician of diagnostic study results and changes in patient condition.
- Organized discharges and educated patients about continuing care requirements to boost long-term outcomes.
- Formulated knowledgeable diagnoses based on direct patient assessments, laboratory results, and evaluations of medical histories.
- Communicated and collaborated with healthcare team and patient to identify and meet physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team to develop care plans for patients with complex medical needs.
- Managed PA catheters and arterials, vasoactive drug administration and titration, thrombolytic therapy, dysrhythmia interpretation, and chest tube management.
- Provided direct care in surgical, cardiac and neurological critical care units.
- Administered care to patients suffering from catastrophic traumatic injuries.
- Maintained detailed patient records, documenting care provided and patient progress.
- Provided comprehensive care to critically ill patients, including those with complex medical and surgical conditions.
- Performed emergency medical procedures, such as advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), when necessary.
- Assisted in the orientation and mentoring of new nursing staff, enhancing team capabilities.
- Managed the care of patients on mechanical ventilation, optimizing respiratory function and monitoring for complications.
- Operated and monitored life support systems and medical devices specific to the critical care setting.
- Utilized a wide range of medical equipment, including ventilators and intravenous (IV) pumps, to support patient care.
- Ensured strict compliance with infection control protocols to protect patients, staff, and visitors.
- Treated patients with broad range of acute, life-threatening diagnoses.
- Applied evidence-based practices to wound care, preventing infections and promoting healing.
- Instructed patients, families and caregivers on diagnoses, chronic disease management and medication self-management.
- Facilitated communication between patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
- Engaged in professional development activities to stay current with advancements in critical care nursing.
- Implemented advanced life support techniques and interventions during emergency situations to stabilize patients.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and safety.
Critical Care Nurse
Baptist Hospital
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
02.1989 - 05.1991
- Implemented treatment plans, monitored vitals and administered medications for patients in ICU.
- Communicated and collaborated with healthcare team and patient to identify and meet physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
- Identified significant health and medical risk factors with potential negative impacts on treatment plans.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team to develop care plans for patients with complex medical needs.
- Advocated for patients by supporting and respecting basic rights, values, and beliefs.
- Formulated knowledgeable diagnoses based on direct patient assessments, laboratory results, and evaluations of medical histories.
- Alerted physician of diagnostic study results and changes in patient condition.
- Administered care to patients suffering from catastrophic traumatic injuries.
- Managed PA catheters and arterials, vasoactive drug administration and titration, thrombolytic therapy, dysrhythmia interpretation, and chest tube management.
- Provided direct care in surgical, cardiac and neurological critical care units.
- Facilitated communication between patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
- Mentored new nurses on practices and procedures to drive patient outcome goals.
- Utilized a wide range of medical equipment, including ventilators and intravenous (IV) pumps, to support patient care.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary healthcare teams to develop and modify individualized care plans.
- Administered medications and treatments as prescribed, ensuring compliance with healthcare protocols.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary healthcare professionals to create, implement, and adapt individualized care plans.
- Assisted in the orientation and mentoring of new nursing staff, enhancing team capabilities.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and safety.
- Managed the care of patients on mechanical ventilation, optimizing respiratory function and monitoring for complications.
- Educated patients and their families on disease processes, medical procedures, and self-care skills.
- Provided comprehensive care to critically ill patients, including those with complex medical and surgical conditions.
- Implemented advanced life support techniques and interventions during emergency situations to stabilize patients.
- Treated patients with broad range of acute, life-threatening diagnoses.
- Performed emergency medical procedures, such as advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), when necessary.
- Managed the administration of blood products and monitored patients for adverse reactions.
Registered Nurse, Medical-Surgical Unit
Jefferson memorial Hospital
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
02.1986 - 01.1989
- Administered medications and treatments as directed and as appropriate for patient's medical care in collaboration with multi-disciplinary team.
- Implemented pre, intra- and post-care, evaluating response to clinical interventions with progression toward discharge.
- Assessed and prepared patients for procedures, performing initial and ongoing patient assessments.
- Exhibited professionalism and leadership to peers by participating in professional activities and continuing education.
- Confirmed proper functioning of life support equipment such as ventilators and feeding tubes.
- Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
- Coordinated with healthcare team to establish, enact, and evaluate patient care plans.
- 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.
- Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
- Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.
- Administered local, inhalation or intravenous anesthetics to patients undergoing procedures.
- Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
- Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
- Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
- Coordinated discharge planning to ensure continuity of care post-hospitalization.
- Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
Registered Nurse-Surgical Unit
Washington Hospital Center
Washington, DC
03.1984 - 06.1986
- Adhered to infection control procedures to facilitate safe, clean patient environment.
- Administered medications and treatments, monitoring patients for reactions and side effects.
- Conducted intake assessments with patients and relatives to gather case history.
- Provided emotional support and counseling to patients and their families.
- Assessed and prepared patients for procedures, performing initial and ongoing patient assessments.
- Oversaw patient admission and discharge processes to coordinate related paperwork.
- Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
- Monitored patients after surgery, answered questions, and provided home care strategies.
- Advocated for patients by supporting and respecting basic rights, values, and beliefs.
- Collected lab specimens, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests and lab results.
- Provided patient and family health education focusing on self-management, prevention and wellness.
- Updated charts throughout shifts with current, accurate information to maintain strict recordkeeping standards.
- Monitored and managed various treatment and care interventions.
- Recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
- Counseled patients and caregivers, providing emotional, psychological and spiritual support.
- Collaborated with doctors to plan post-treatment home care and prevent return hospitalization.
Registered Nurse, Medical-Surgical Unit
Howard University Hospital
Washington, DC
05.1982 - 05.1984
- Administered medications and treatments as directed and as appropriate for patient's medical care in collaboration with multi-disciplinary team.
- Performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation accurately and effectively.
- Implemented pre, intra- and post-care, evaluating response to clinical interventions with progression toward discharge.
- Assessed and prepared patients for procedures, performing initial and ongoing patient assessments.
- Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
- Coordinated with healthcare team to establish, enact, and evaluate patient care plans.
- Delivered information regarding care and medications to patients and caregivers in comprehendible terminology.
- Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
Education
Doctorate in Nursing Practice- DNP - Abilene, Texas
Abilene Christian University
Abilene, Texas01.2025
Bachelor of Science Degree - Nursing
Aspen University
Aspen, Colorado05.2018
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Howard University
Washington, DC05.1982
Associate of Applied Science - Nursing
University of the District of Columbia
Washington, DC05.1982
Skills
- Certified in emergency nursing (CEN)
- Certified in critical care nursing (CCRN)
- Ambulatory services
- Critical thinking
- Quality control analysis
- Certified in pediatric advanced life support (PALS)
- Certified in advanced cardiac life support (ACLS)
- Education and training for healthcare workers
- ACLS instructor
- Customer service
- Leadership skills
- Performance monitoring
- Staff development
- Data gathering
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Nursing expertise
Awards
- Recognized as 1 of 100 Outstanding Nurses in Washington DC, Metropolitan Area, 2010
- Developed PowerPoint Presentation -Washington Hospital Center- Mandatory view for all new nurses in the Emergency Room., 2010
- Certificate of Excellence from Patient Experience and Advocacy Service for Improving Patient Experience, 2023
- Received Medal of Honor from Mr. Heimel, Medical Center Director for outstanding contributions to the Emergency Department, 2023
- Received Exceptional Rating Cash Award for achieving outstanding performance in all plan elements of nursing practice, 2025
Military Experience
Army Nurse Corps, 01/1984, 12/1999, 1st Lieutenant Promotable to Captain
Timeline
Assistant Nurse Manager Emergency Room
Veterans Administration
01.2019 - Current
Charge Nurse
Providence Hospital
12.2015 - 05.2019
Surgical Coordinator – Department of Anesthesia
Medstar Washington Hospital Center
10.2011 - 12.2015
Clinical Nurse/ Charge Nurse
Washington Hospital Center
04.2006 - 09.2011
Wellness Director
Baptist Senior Living
03.2002 - 06.2004
Clinical Nurse
Greater South East Hospital
05.1998 - 06.2002
Emergency Department Nurse
Southern Maryland Hospital
03.1996 - 04.1997
Emergency/Trauma Registered Nurse
DC General Hospital
06.1991 - 05.1996
ICU- Critical Care Nurse- Cardiac Care Unit
Prince Georges Community Hospital
01.1991 - 03.1992
Critical Care Nurse
Baptist Hospital
02.1989 - 05.1991
Registered Nurse, Medical-Surgical Unit
Jefferson memorial Hospital
02.1986 - 01.1989
Registered Nurse-Surgical Unit
Washington Hospital Center
03.1984 - 06.1986
Registered Nurse, Medical-Surgical Unit
Howard University Hospital
05.1982 - 05.1984
Doctorate in Nursing Practice- DNP - Abilene, Texas
Abilene Christian University
Bachelor of Science Degree - Nursing
Aspen University
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Howard University
Associate of Applied Science - Nursing
University of the District of Columbia