Heather Batts
Houston
Summary
- Hardworking Compassionate, and Dedicated Critical Care Registered Nurse accustomed to treating diverse patient population while managing dynamic conditions. Offering excellent critical thinking, leadership, clinical knowledge, and judgment skills combined with strong documentation, monitoring, and problem-solving abilities. Well-versed in managing emergent cases in a timely and efficient manner. Knowledge and administration skills of critical care drips and post op patients in a hospital setting. I am also a seasoned Cardiovascular/Critical Care Travel Nurse with experience in various intensive care units across diverse healthcare settings. Strengths include rapid patient assessment, critical thinking under pressure, and ability to provide top-notch patient care during emergencies. Demonstrated skill in working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams to enhance patient outcomes. My past roles reflect significant impact through delivery of high-quality nursing services, fostering patient and family comfort and safety while adhering to strict regulatory standards.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Cardiovascular Surgical/Critical Care Travel Nurse
Stability Healthcare
San Diego
03.2023 - Current
- Manage Care and Recovery of post op cardiovascular procedure patients eg. CABG, TAVR, EVAR, CEA, Heart Cath, Pericardial Windows, Aortic Trunk Replacements, as well as care of CTEPH patients post PTE/PEA surgery.
- Manage care of IABP, IMPELLA, LVAD, CRRT patients
- Titration of cardiac/ critical care gtts eg. Nitroglycerin, Epinephrine, Dopamine, Dobutamine, Milrinone, Levophed, Vasopressin, and Neosynephrine
- Titration of sedation gtts eg. Propofol, Fentanyl, Versed, and Precedex.
- Administration and Titration of CTEPH gtts eg. Remodulin, Flolan, and Veletri.
- Management and care of intubated and/ Tracheostomy patients via Ventilator
- Administration of blood products per MD orders and hospital policy with monitoring of patient condition along with signs and symptoms of transfusion reactions.
- Administered medications and treatments per physician orders in critical care settings.
- Monitored patient vital signs and reported changes to the healthcare team promptly.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans for patients.
- Educated patients and families about procedures, medications, and post-discharge care.
- Assisted in emergency procedures, maintaining composure under high-stress situations.
- Documented patient progress accurately in electronic health records systems daily.
- Trained and mentored new nursing staff on intensive care protocols and best practices.
- Ensured compliance with infection control policies to maintain a safe patient environment.
- Maintained records, prepared reports, and served on special committees.
- Assisted physicians in the management and treatment of acute and chronic cardiac conditions, such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias and valvular diseases.
- Assessed need for diagnostic tests based on clinical presentation, then interpreted results accurately to guide further treatment decisions.
- Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
- 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.
- Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
- Collaborated with health groups to plan or implement programs designed to improve overall health of communities.
- Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
- Served as an advocate for critically ill patients by ensuring their rights were respected during their stay at the ICU.
- Conducted physical assessments, monitored vital signs, and provided medical treatments to critically ill patients.
- Evaluated laboratory results and diagnostic tests for accuracy and acted accordingly when necessary.
- Maintained accurate documentation of all patient observations, interventions, and treatments according to hospital policy.
- Communicated effectively with physicians regarding changes in patient status or treatment options.
- Provided compassionate care to families of critically ill patients.
- Performed airway management procedures including tracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation management.
- Acted as a primary resource for critical care nursing staff members in providing education related to specific conditions or treatments.
- Demonstrated proficiency in utilizing specialized equipment such as ventilators and monitors that are used in intensive care settings.
- Responded quickly and appropriately to any changes in the condition of the patient while under my direct supervision.
- Administered intravenous fluids, medications, blood products, and other therapeutic interventions as prescribed by physicians.
- Monitored hemodynamic parameters such as cardiac output and pulmonary artery pressures using advanced monitoring equipment.
- Administered critical care treatments to patients in high-stress environments.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop patient care plans.
- Monitored vital signs and adjusted interventions based on patient needs.
- Provided support during emergency procedures to ensure patient safety.
- Documented patient progress and communicated changes to healthcare team.
- Monitored vital signs including temperature, pulse, respiration rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation levels.
- Administered medications as prescribed by physicians and documented all treatments accurately.
- Responded promptly to life-threatening situations using advanced cardiac life support protocols.
- Communicated effectively with families regarding treatment plans or prognoses.
- Provided direct and indirect patient care in a critical care setting.
- Performed assessments and interventions to stabilize acutely ill patients.
- Assisted with intubations, chest tube placement, central line insertion and other invasive procedures.
- Developed strategies for pain management utilizing pharmacological and nonpharmacological modalities.
- Managed complex medical equipment such as ventilators, infusion pumps, monitors.
- Managed PA catheters and arterials, vasoactive drug administration and titration, thrombolytic therapy, dysrhythmia interpretation, and chest tube management.
- Treated patients with broad range of acute, life-threatening diagnoses.
- Provided direct care in surgical, cardiac and neurological critical care units.
- Performed emergency medical procedures, such as advanced cardiac life support (ACLS), when necessary.
- Utilized a wide range of medical equipment, including ventilators and intravenous (IV) pumps, to support patient care.
- Administered medications and treatments as prescribed, ensuring compliance with healthcare protocols.
- 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.
- Ensured strict compliance with infection control protocols to protect patients, staff, and visitors.
- Engaged in professional development activities to stay current with advancements in critical care nursing.
- Educated patients and their families on disease processes, medical procedures, and self-care skills.
- Monitored patient vital signs, assessing and responding to changes in patient conditions promptly.
- Managed the care of patients on mechanical ventilation, optimizing respiratory function and monitoring for complications.
Cardiovascular ICU/Critical Care Registered Nurse
Memorial Hermann
Houston
04.2021 - 03.2023
- Treated patients with broad range of acute, life-threatening diagnoses and surgical procedures
- Managed PA catheters and arterials-SWAN/ART lines, Vents/Intubation assist, Hemodynamic monitoring, Recovery of post operative CABG/CEA/TCAR/EVAR/TAVR/Pericardial Window/FLAP/CTEPH patients, IABP/Impella management, CRRT, Targeted Temperature Management/Artic Sun, vasoactive drug administration and titration, Sedation administration and titration, thrombolytic therapy, dysrhythmia interpretation and chest tube management.
- Provided direct care in surgical, cardiac and neurological critical care units.
- Maintained thorough, accurate and confidential documentation in electronic medical records.
- Alerted physician of diagnostic study results and changes in patient condition.
- Assessed patient conditions, implemented care plans and reassessed conditions continuously.
- Advocated for patients by supporting and respecting basic rights, values and beliefs.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team to develop care plans for patients with complex medical needs.
- Organized discharges and educated patients about continuing care requirements to boost long-term outcomes.
- Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
- Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
- Delivered optimum treatments to critical-care patients following prescribed rules, policies, protocol and procedures.
- Developed and maintained professional relationship with members of health care team, patient and patient's family.
- Functioned as charge nurse and assumed patient care in absence of nurses ending or arriving for shifts.
- Recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
- Trained other nurses on patient care and daily tasks, supporting growth and professional development.
- Assessed ICU patients each shift to ascertain vitals and key information.
- Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
- Checked on patients regularly to track progress with treatments, changes in symptoms and need for emergency interventions.
- Identified abnormal and critical respiratory patterns through direct pulmonary assessments.
- Evaluated patient vital signs and laboratory data to assess needs and provide emergency interventions.
- Supervised cardiac monitors, mechanical ventilators and alarms and oxygen delivery devices.
- Displayed strong telephone etiquette, effectively handling difficult calls.
- Monitored patient vitals and reported changes to medical team.
- Administered medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians.
- Educated patients and families on critical care procedures and recovery.
- Assisted in the management of life-support equipment and technology.
- Responded swiftly to emergency situations, ensuring patient safety.
- Documented patient progress and interventions in electronic health records.
- Trained new nurses on critical care protocols and best practices.
- Administered emergency resuscitative measures when necessary according to advanced cardiac life support protocols.
- Mentored new nurses on practices and procedures to drive patient outcome goals.
- Provided direct nursing care to critically ill patients in accordance with established policies, procedures, and standards of practice.
- Treated patients with broad range of acute, life-threatening diagnoses.
Registered Nurse
UTSW Medical Center
Dallas
10.2019 - 04.2021
- Administered critical care gtts such as Remodulin, Veletri, and Flolan for Pulmonary Hypertension patients and care of Cystic Fibrosis patients, medication administration, tracked dosages and documented patient conditions.
- Coordinated care with physicians and other clinical staff to prepare for treatment, carry out interventions and enhance continuum of care to deliver comprehensive services.
- Monitored and recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
- Trained new RN hires and ancillary staff members to meet patient service goals, champion standards of care and improve patient overall satisfaction.
- Guided therapeutic communication, conflict resolutions and interventions by deflecting undesirable behaviors to assist patients with developing and amplifying coping skills.
- Maintained composure and efficiency during rapid response situation and emergency codes.
- Worked with management to identify and implement initiatives to increase nursing staff retention, morale and satisfaction.
- Completed and maintained personal Performance-Based Development System (PBDS) standards to show consistent clinical competency and sound judgment.
- Delivered direct patient care, including stabilizing patients and identifying treatment options.
Registered Nurse
Medical City Dallas
Dallas
11.2018 - 11.2019
- Progressive Care Unit where nurses administrator cardiac drips and determine the predictable or unpredictable health status and health needs of patients (individual and family) through interpretation of health data and preventative practice in collaboration with patients and interdisciplinary health Care team members
- Implement and direct nursing care within the RN's scope of practice, including compliance with other laws that apply to the practice setting
- Participate in cardiovascular department specific initiatives and process movements
- Develop and provide teaching plans for patients concerning promotion, maintenance, and restoration of health
- Formulate a nursing care plan based on determination of nursing diagnoses and identified problems
Registered Nurse
Methodist Health System
Richardson
01.2018 - 10.2018
- CARDIAC STEPDOWN ICU unit where nurses delivered quality care and comfort to patients with heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary embolisms and end-stage renal disease
- Cared for patients recovering from Heart Cath and CABG procedures and provided personalized daily assistance
- Administered critical drips e.g Cardizem, Amiodarone, Milrinone, Nitro, Insulin, Dobutamine, Dopamine and other medications, tracked dosages and documented patient condition
- Executed appropriate steps for patient treatment following careful review of physician medical regimen
- Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions
- Monitored post-op vitals, set up PCA, fluids, reviewed post-op orders and assimilated patients to unit
Licensed Vocational Nurse
Private Duty LVN
Texarkana
06.2009 - 05.2016
- Provided primary resident care in private home and assistance with daily living activities
Certified Nursing Assistant
Christus St. Michael Health System
Texarkana
04.2006 - 02.2008
- Documented resident records on daily flow sheets. Recognized and reported abnormalities and/or changes in patients' health status to nursing staff
- Assisted with transferring residents in and out of wheelchairs and adaptive equipment. Assisted with adequate nutrition and fluid intake
Registered Nurse Float Pool
Christus Health
Texarkana
2 2017 - 1 2018
- Team nursing with an LVN and PCT to provide direct patient care and comprehensive patient assessments to determine individual needs, formulating plans of care in collaboration with multidisciplinary healthcare professionals, including physicians, case managers and social workers
- Assumed care of patients in different units such as PCU, Telemetry, RCU, Ortho, Medsurg, Peds, and Mother baby
Licensed Vocational Nurse
The Retreat at Kenwood
Texarkana
5 2015 - 8 2015
- Routinely evaluated the overall resident care within the facility and diligently enforced high standards of care
Patient Care Tech
Wadley Regional Medical Center
Texarkana
8 2008 - 6 2009
- Assisted with adequate nutrition and fluid intake. Assisted with transferring residents in and out of wheelchairs and adaptive equipment. Charted daily information on the residents such as mood changes, mobility activity, eating percentages, and daily inputs and outputs
Education
Associate of Science - RN
Texarkana College
Texarkana, TX, United StatesVocational Certificate - LPN
Texarkana College
Texarkana, TX, United StatesSkills
- Cardiac care
- Ventilator management
- Hemodynamic monitoring
- Critical care documentation
- Patient assessment
- Emergency response
- Team collaboration
- Advanced cardiac life support
- Effective communication
- Training and mentoring
- Electronic health record proficiency
- Wound care management
- Intravenous therapy administration
- Central line management
- Neurological assessment
- Cardiovascular monitoring
- Critical care experience
- Patient assessment expertise
- Airway management
- Chest tube management
- Life-sustaining machines
- Chart management
Affiliations
- President's List Honoree-(GPA 4.0) 2014/2017
- American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACCN)- 2015-2023
- Academic Achievement Scholarship Award (2014)
- Nurse Faculty Scholarship Award (2016)
- Daisy Award 2022
References
Professional References Available Upon Request
Licenses and Certifications
Registered Nursing License (Texas) Current
RN Charge Nurse -Current
BLS Certification 2018-2022
ACLS Certification 2018-2022
NIH Stroke Scale Certification 2018-2021
Skills
- Specialty critical care drips e.g Veletri, Remodulin, Flolan as well as (Levo, Vaso Dopamine, Dobutamine Cardiene, Cardizem, Nitro, ect..). Sedation gtts
- Post Op care PTE/CTEPH surgery and Lung Transplant as well as (CABG, HEART CATH, ABLATIONS,ect)
- Dysrhythmia monitoring and Interpretation
- SWAN, ART Line, Central Line, SubQ, Cadd Legacy pump, Alaris pump
- Cerner, Epic, Meditch charting systems
Timeline
Cardiovascular Surgical/Critical Care Travel Nurse
Stability Healthcare
03.2023 - Current
Cardiovascular ICU/Critical Care Registered Nurse
Memorial Hermann
04.2021 - 03.2023
Registered Nurse
UTSW Medical Center
10.2019 - 04.2021
Registered Nurse
Medical City Dallas
11.2018 - 11.2019
Registered Nurse
Methodist Health System
01.2018 - 10.2018
Licensed Vocational Nurse
Private Duty LVN
06.2009 - 05.2016
Certified Nursing Assistant
Christus St. Michael Health System
04.2006 - 02.2008
Registered Nurse Float Pool
Christus Health
2 2017 - 1 2018
Licensed Vocational Nurse
The Retreat at Kenwood
5 2015 - 8 2015
Patient Care Tech
Wadley Regional Medical Center
8 2008 - 6 2009
Associate of Science - RN
Texarkana College
Vocational Certificate - LPN
Texarkana College