Jessica Salazar

Nurse

Togus VA Medical Center

Augusta, ME

07.2013 - Current

Provides nursing care for patients with acute medical diagnoses and treatments.
Collaborates with other healthcare professionals to develop individualized plans of care for each patient.
Ensures that all documentation is accurate and up-to-date according to established guidelines.
Observes and carries out physician and nursing orders.
Educates patients on their medical condition, treatment plans, and self-care management techniques.
Performs physical assessments to identify any changes in the patient's condition or needs.
Assesses and prepares patients for procedures, performing initial and ongoing patient assessments.
Monitors patients after surgery, answers questions, and provides home care strategies.
Advocates for patients by supporting and respecting basic rights, values and beliefs.
Supports families during times of illness or injury by providing emotional support and assistance with decision making processes, while maintaining patient autonomy
Maintains a safe environment for both staff and patients through adherence to safety protocols.
Adheres to infection control procedures to facilitate safe, clean patient environment.
Responds quickly and effectively in emergency situations utilizing advanced life saving skills when needed.
Communicates concerns regarding patients' status, care and environment to nursing supervisors, clinical care supervisors and case managers.
Coordinates care with physicians and other clinical staff to prepare for treatment, carried out interventions and enhanced continuum of care.
Provides guidance to new employees regarding policies and procedures within the organization.
Instructs new hire nurses on patient care and daily tasks, supporting growth and professional development.
Mentors new grad RNs on best practices, hospital policies and standards of care.
Maintains personal and team compliance with medication administration standards and best patient care practices.
Assesses patient conditions, monitors behaviors and updates supervising physicians with observations and concerns.