Gemma Desagun
Bakersfield,CA
Summary
Dynamic Charge Nurse with extensive experience at Bakersfield Memorial Hospital, excelling in patient care coordination and medication administration. Proven ability to lead interdisciplinary teams, ensuring compliance with safety protocols and enhancing patient outcomes. Recognized for exceptional communication skills and a commitment to quality improvement in high-pressure environments.
Seasoned Charge Nurse with comprehensive experience in acute patient care, staff supervision and healthcare administration. Strong background in nursing leadership, coupled with ability to manage high-stress situations and make critical decisions under pressure. Demonstrated success in fostering strong relationships with patients and team members, thereby improving overall unit efficiency and patient satisfaction.
Patient-oriented, compassionate nursing professional experienced in patient care and advocacy within units. Accomplished at implementing policies, procedures and protocols to achieve core measures benchmarks. Caring and attentive preceptor dedicated to optimizing nurses' skills and knowledge.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Charge Nurse/Staff Nurse, Mother-Baby Unit
Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
Bakersfield, California
01.2009 - 06.2024
- Delegated tasks appropriately among staff members according to their qualifications.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop individualized care plans for patients.
- Managed staffing levels within the unit while ensuring optimal levels of patient care.
- 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.
- Supported physicians and consultants with tests and procedures.
- Coordinated discharge planning to ensure continuity of care post-hospitalization.
- Evaluated patient outcomes against established standards of care.
- Met with administrator to discuss patient care status, issues, and information.
- Served as a preceptor for new nurses by providing orientation to unit policies and procedures, coaching on clinical skills, and mentoring on professional development issues.
- Actively participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient progress toward desired outcomes.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Implemented safety protocols when administering medications or performing treatments.
- Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
- Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary healthcare specialists to devise, implement and modify plans of care defining patient outcome goals
- Provided emotional support for families facing difficult decisions regarding end-of-life care.
- Organized and delegated tasks during rapid response and high-pressure code situations.
- Coordinated and performed patient admissions, transfers and discharges.
- Advised, coached and mentored experienced and student nurses on medical issues, crisis management, and appropriate nursing interventions.
- Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
- Coordinated communication between physicians and other healthcare professionals regarding patient care.
- Monitored vital signs, medication administration, and fluid balance for assigned patients.
- Ensured that all documentation was completed accurately according to established policies and procedures.
- Complied with OSHA programs, maintaining safe and clean working environment.
- Conducted daily rounds to assess patient conditions, evaluate progress towards goals, and document changes in status or plan of care as needed.
- Ensured compliance with infection control protocols throughout the facility.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives to ensure best practice standards were met within the unit setting.
- Oversaw medication administration, monitored distribution and documented responses.
- Educated patients, caregivers and families on diagnoses, treatment and disease prevention.
- Audited patient charts in real-time, verifying accuracy and completion of information.
- Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
- Built and maintained strong working relationships between nursing department and other disciplines.
- Distributed assignments to RNs, LPNs and resident advisors, guided work and delivered training to promote proper care standards for patients.
- Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
- Coordinated, tasked and supervised nurses and ancillary staff based on staffing requirements.
- Developed and implemented nursing care plans for individual patients based on their needs.
- Collaborated with other departments such as pharmacy, laboratory services, physical therapy, to ensure proper delivery of services.
- Assisted with admission and discharge planning for assigned patients.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Trained and mentored new RNs on best practices, hospital policies and standards of care.
- Responded quickly to emergent situations such as cardiac arrest or respiratory distress.
- Performed health education activities with patients to promote understanding of medical condition and self-care skills.
- Monitored diet, physical activity, behaviors and other patient factors to assess conditions and adjust treatment plans.
- Provided direct patient care, including assessments and treatments, to a variety of patients.
- Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
- Maintained accurate records of all treatment interventions provided to each patient.
- Directed unit staff and promoted quality care for diverse patients.
- Monitored patient progress and adjusted care plans accordingly.
Charge Nurse/Staff Nurse, High Risk Perinatal Unit
Medical University Hospital of South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina
05.1993 - 12.2008
- Audited patient charts in real-time, verifying accuracy and completion of information.
- Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
- Administered local, inhalation or intravenous anesthetics to patients undergoing procedures.
- Directed unit staff and promoted quality care for diverse patients.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary healthcare specialists to devise, implement and modify plans of care defining patient outcome goals
- Oversaw medication administration, monitored distribution and documented responses.
- Assisted in the development and implementation of departmental policies and procedures.
- Actively participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient progress toward desired outcomes.
- Advised, coached and mentored experienced and student nurses on medical issues, crisis management, and appropriate nursing interventions.
- Evaluated patient outcomes against established standards of care.
- Ensured that all documentation was completed accurately according to established policies and procedures.
- Reviewed staffing patterns and census of nursing units, meeting staffing needs and budgetary controls.
- Coordinated discharge planning to ensure continuity of care post-hospitalization.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives to ensure best practice standards were met within the unit setting.
- 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.
- Managed staffing levels within the unit while ensuring optimal levels of patient care.
- Collaborated with other departments such as pharmacy, laboratory services, physical therapy, to ensure proper delivery of services.
- Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
- Conducted daily rounds to assess patient conditions, evaluate progress towards goals, and document changes in status or plan of care as needed.
- Maintained accurate records of all treatment interventions provided to each patient.
- Performed health education activities with patients to promote understanding of medical condition and self-care skills.
- Coordinated communication between physicians and other healthcare professionals regarding patient care.
- Ensured compliance with infection control protocols throughout the facility.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Assessed and assisted patients with diverse range and comorbid chronic diagnoses.
Staff Nurse (Cross Trained), GI Unit
Medical University Hospital of South Carolina
Charleston
04.2000 - 04.2006
- Assessed company operations for compliance with safety standards.
- Identified needs of customers promptly and efficiently.
- Built and maintained working relationships with peers and upper management.
- Educated patients, caregivers and families on diagnoses, treatment and disease prevention.
- Assisted with admission and discharge planning for assigned patients.
- Coordinated and performed patient admissions, transfers and discharges.
- Achieved departmental goals and objectives by instituting new processes and standards for in-patient care.
- Audited patient charts in real-time, verifying accuracy and completion of information.
- Conducted daily rounds to assess patient conditions, evaluate progress towards goals, and document changes in status or plan of care as needed.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
- Responded quickly to emergent situations such as cardiac arrest or respiratory distress.
- Coordinated communication between physicians and other healthcare professionals regarding patient care.
- Evaluated patient outcomes against established standards of care.
Staff Nurse (Cross Trained), Renal Transplant Unit
Medical University Hospital of South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina
01.1998 - 01.2004
- Provided technical support for office equipment, troubleshooting minor issues.
- Resolved conflicts between staff members in a timely manner while maintaining professionalism.
- Assisted with the organization and execution of corporate events and meetings.
- Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
- Responded quickly and effectively in emergency situations utilizing advanced life saving skills when needed.
- Created, implemented and evaluated patient care plans with medical team.
- Provided emotional support and counseling to patients and their families.
- Monitored patient's respiration activity, blood pressure and blood glucose levels in response to medical administration.
- Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.
- Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
- Educated patients and families on health care needs, conditions, and options.
- Facilitated communication between members of the healthcare team by attending interdisciplinary meetings.
- Administered medications and treatments in accordance with physician orders.
- Delivered compassionate care to increase comfort and psychological, social and spiritual well-being.
- Assessed and prepared patients for procedures, performing initial and ongoing patient assessments.
- Assisted physician with examinations, tests and procedures.
- Adhered to infection control procedures to facilitate safe, clean patient environment.
- Advocated for patients by supporting and respecting basic rights, values, and beliefs.
- Counseled patients and caregivers, providing emotional, psychological and spiritual support.
- Monitored diet, physical activity, behaviors and other patient factors to assess conditions and adjust treatment plans.
- Monitored patients after surgery, answered questions, and provided home care strategies.
- Answered patient and family questions to educate on optimal treatment procedures.
- Supported families during times of illness or injury by providing emotional support and assistance with decision making processes.
- Evaluated patients, recognized and addressed complications and coordinated treatment with other members of critical care team.
- Trained other nurses on patient care and daily tasks, supporting growth and professional development.
- Provided patient and family health education focusing on self-management, prevention and wellness.
Staff Nurse (Cross Trained), Behavioral Care Unit
Medical University Hospital of South Carolina-Psyc
Charleston, South Carolina
01.1995 - 05.1998
- Worked closely with human resources to support employee management and organizational planning.
- Participated in the planning of special events and promotions for the organization.
- Organized team building activities designed to improve morale among staff members.
- Participated in staff training sessions, acquiring new skills and knowledge.
Charge Nurse/RN Staff Nurse, Endocrine Unit
Roper Hospital
Charleston, South Carolina
03.1993 - 05.1995
- Responded quickly to emergent situations such as cardiac arrest or respiratory distress.
- Implemented safety protocols when administering medications or performing treatments.
- Evaluated patient outcomes against established standards of care.
- Provided emotional support to patients and their families during difficult times.
- Delegated tasks appropriately among staff members according to their qualifications.
- Audited patient charts in real-time, verifying accuracy and completion of information.
- Managed staffing levels within the unit while ensuring optimal levels of patient care.
- Organized and delegated tasks during rapid response and high-pressure code situations.
- Assessed and assisted patients with diverse range and comorbid chronic diagnoses.
- Maintained accurate records of all treatment interventions provided to each patient.
- Delivered information regarding care and medications to patients and caregivers in comprehendible terminology.
- Conducted daily rounds to assess patient conditions, evaluate progress towards goals, and document changes in status or plan of care as needed.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Coordinated and performed patient admissions, transfers and discharges.
- Directed unit staff and promoted quality care for diverse patients.
- Provided direct patient care, including assessments and treatments, to a variety of patients.
Staff Nurse, Medicine, HIV/AIDS, TB Pavillion Unit
Bellevue Hospital Center
New York, New York
09.1990 - 05.1993
Staff Registered Nurse, ICU
Cebu Doctors University Hospital
Cebu , Philppines
05.1989 - 05.1990
- Conducted regular assessments of patient conditions, identifying changes and coordinating appropriate responses.
- Operated and maintained life support systems and other medical equipment with precision and care.
- Collaborated with physicians to develop treatment plans and evaluate progress of critically ill patients.
- Maintained accurate medical records documenting all patient assessments, interventions, and evaluations.
- Managed patient pain and discomfort through effective pain management strategies, enhancing patient comfort.
- Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
- Ensured proper use of infection control practices while caring for patients.
- Assisted physicians during complex diagnostic tests or invasive procedures.
- Coordinated discharge planning, ensuring patients transitioned safely from ICU to next level of care.
- Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while demonstrating excellent time management skills.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
- Provided emotional support to patients and their families during difficult times.
- Administered blood products transfusions safely according to protocols.
- Helped monitor, maintain and improve nursing-sensitive indicators, core measures and other identified outcome metrics.
- Responded to life-saving situations using appropriate resuscitation techniques and emergency protocols.
- Delivered compassionate end-of-life care when necessary by respecting the wishes of the family.
- Provided emotional support and education to patients' families, helping them navigate complex medical information.
- Actively participated in interdisciplinary team meetings related to patient care decisions.
- Achieved best possible outcomes for nursing sensitive indicators, core measures, HCAPS, patient satisfaction and associate satisfaction.
- Initiated rapid response protocols when needed due to sudden deterioration in a patient's condition.
- Maintained meticulous records of patient care, treatment plans, and progress notes in electronic health systems.
- Monitored diet, physical activity, behaviors and other patient factors to assess conditions and adjust treatment plans.
- Assessed ICU patients each shift to ascertain vitals and key information.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Managed comprehensive care for critically ill patients, ensuring adherence to ICU protocols and guidelines.
- Coordinated discharge planning to ensure continuity of care post-hospitalization.
- Provided emotional support to families of ICU patients throughout their hospital stay.
- Participated in development, implementation and evaluation of action plans for continuous performance improvement.
- Established and implemented nursing care plans for each patient using protocols of assessment, development, activation and evaluation.
- Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
- Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
- Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
- 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.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Medina College of Nursing
Ozamis City, Philippines 03-1988
Skills
- Patient care
- Medication administration
- Care coordination
- Electronic health records
- Staff management
- Discharge planning
- Quality improvement
- Patient education
- Crisis management
- Infection control
- Health assessment
- Emotional support
- Regulatory compliance
- Team leadership
- Collecting vitals
- Patient care standards
- Family planning services education
- Direct patient care
- Patient consultation
- Emergency care
- Certified in CPR/AED
- Excellent communication
- Vitals monitoring
- Advanced cardiovascular life support
- Goal driven
- Work Planning and Prioritization
- Patient assessments
- Basic life support
- Patient assessment
- Heartsaver first aid CPR AED
- Documenting observations
- Problem-solving
- Patient examination
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Goal setting
- Unit oversight
- Calm and composed
- Patient admitting
- Adaptability
- Nonviolent crisis intervention
- CPR certification
- Intake and discharge
- Pain management
- EMR / EHR
Certification
- RN
- ACLS
- BLS
- NRP
Accomplishments
- 2015, 2016 Recipient- Calm in the eye of the Storm Award
- 2014 Recipient- Golden Globe Rn Award
- 2013 Nominee-KERN County RN of the Year
- 2012 Recipient- Shining Star Award of the year
- 2011 Recipient- Shining Star Award of the Year
- 2005 Recipient- Unit RN of the year
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Charge Nurse/Staff Nurse, Mother-Baby Unit
Bakersfield Memorial Hospital
01.2009 - 06.2024
Staff Nurse (Cross Trained), GI Unit
Medical University Hospital of South Carolina
04.2000 - 04.2006
Staff Nurse (Cross Trained), Renal Transplant Unit
Medical University Hospital of South Carolina
01.1998 - 01.2004
Staff Nurse (Cross Trained), Behavioral Care Unit
Medical University Hospital of South Carolina-Psyc
01.1995 - 05.1998
Charge Nurse/Staff Nurse, High Risk Perinatal Unit
Medical University Hospital of South Carolina
05.1993 - 12.2008
Charge Nurse/RN Staff Nurse, Endocrine Unit
Roper Hospital
03.1993 - 05.1995
Staff Nurse, Medicine, HIV/AIDS, TB Pavillion Unit
Bellevue Hospital Center
09.1990 - 05.1993
Staff Registered Nurse, ICU
Cebu Doctors University Hospital
05.1989 - 05.1990
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Medina College of Nursing