Kara Reaves RN
Bainbridge,GA
Summary
Knowledgeable Registered Nurse with strong foundation in nursing supervision and team leadership. Successfully managed healthcare teams, ensuring high standards of patient care and compliance with medical protocols. Demonstrated proficiency in critical thinking and effective communication.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Registered Nurse Supervisor
Memorial Hospital and Manor
1500 E SHOTWELL ST. BAINBRIDGE, GA 39819
12.2025 - Current
- Supervised nursing staff to ensure high-quality patient care and adherence to hospital protocols.
- Developed and implemented training programs for new nurses, enhancing team competency and performance.
- Conducted performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback and fostering professional development among staff.
- Managed scheduling for nursing staff, ensuring adequate coverage while balancing department needs and employee preferences.
- Served as a liaison between administration, medical staff, and nursing team for seamless communication and coordination of care efforts.
- Managed staffing schedules, ensuring adequate coverage for all shifts while minimizing overtime costs.
- Enhanced overall staff morale by recognizing individual achievements and fostering a collaborative, supportive work environment.
- Promoted a safe and healthy work environment through adherence to infection control policies and procedures.
- Assisted in the onboarding process for new hires, offering guidance and mentorship to help them acclimate quickly to their roles.
- Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
- Facilitated open communication among team members by conducting regular staff meetings and encouraging feedback from all levels of personnel.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based nursing practices and protocols.
- Reduced medication errors by implementing a thorough double-check system and providing ongoing education for staff members.
- Investigated and independently resolved complaints from staff, physicians, and patients by leveraging clinical judgment and unit management expertise.
- Coordinated and implemented in-service educational programs focusing on safety and adherence to protocols.
- Recruited, hired and trained all staff, providing direct supervision, ongoing staff development and continuing education to employees.
- Monitored and inspected staff processes to eliminate hazards posed for both residents and staff while ensuring continuous compliance with regulations.
- Developed and updated policies and procedures, maintaining compliance with guidelines relating to HIPAA, benefits administration and general liability.
- Streamlined workflow processes, improving patient throughput and reducing wait times in critical care units.
Behavioral Health Registered Nurse
Donalsonville Hospital
102 HOSPITAL CIR. DONALSONVILLE, GA
06.2025 - Current
- Administered comprehensive mental health assessments for diverse patient populations.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement individualized care plans.
- Monitored patient progress and adjusted treatment strategies based on behavioral observations.
- Educated patients and families on coping strategies and medication management.
- Prevented escalation of psychiatric crises by recognizing early warning signs and intervening promptly with appropriate de-escalation techniques.
- Enhanced patient safety by conducting regular environmental assessments to identify and mitigate potential risks within the behavioral health unit.
- Collaborated with psychiatrists to adjust medication regimens, optimizing therapeutic effectiveness while minimizing side effects.
- Educated patients and families on mental health conditions, treatment options, and community resources to promote informed decisionmaking.
- Advocated for patient rights within the healthcare system by maintaining confidentiality standards, addressing ethical concerns when necessary.
- Coordinated closely with case managers to ensure seamless transitions between levels of care for patients requiring additional support services upon discharge from the hospital setting.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
Registered Nurse in Emergency Department
Donalsonville Hospital
06.2025 - Current
- Assessed and triaged patients to prioritize care based on severity of conditions.
- Administered medications and treatments in accordance with established protocols and physician orders.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes in high-pressure environments.
- Educated patients and families on treatment plans, discharge instructions, and ongoing care needs.
- Implemented process improvements to enhance efficiency in patient flow within the emergency department.
- Provided support to patients experiencing emotional distress or mental health crises, utilizing therapeutic communication techniques to create a sense of trust and safety.
- Assisted physicians in performing diagnostic procedures by providing necessary equipment, preparing patients for exams, and ensuring accuracy of test results.
- Coordinated patient transfers to appropriate hospital departments or outside facilities while maintaining continuity of care during transition periods.
- Assisted in life-saving procedures such as CPR, intubation, and defibrillation during critical situations in the Emergency Department.
- Improved patient outcomes by closely monitoring vital signs, recognizing changes in patient condition, and promptly notifying physicians when necessary.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to develop and implement individualized care plans for patients in the Emergency Department.
- Provided compassionate care to patients and their families, addressing concerns and answering questions regarding treatment options.
Emergency Room Registered Nurse
Memorial Hospital and Manor
Bainbridge, GA
10.2020 - Current
- Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Assisted physicians during invasive procedures such as central line insertions or intubations, ensuring safe and accurate completion of tasks.
- Facilitated clear communication with patients, families, and colleagues, fostering a positive environment in a fast-paced setting.
- Provided emotional support to patients and families during crisis situations, helping them cope more effectively with difficult circumstances.
- Educated patients and families on post-discharge care instructions, promoting adherence to prescribed regimens for improved health outcomes at home.
- Ensured continuity of care by thoroughly documenting vital information in electronic health records systems for seamless transitions between healthcare providers.
- Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injuries and illnesses.
Manager
Maryland Fried Chicken
Cairo, GA
01.2014 - 08.2020
- Accomplished multiple tasks within established timeframes.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving disputes promptly, maintaining open lines of communication, and ensuring high-quality service delivery.
- Resolved staff member conflicts, actively listening to concerns and finding appropriate middle ground.
- Cross-trained existing employees to maximize team agility and performance.
- Developed and maintained relationships with customers and suppliers through account development.
Education
Associate Degree In Nursing - Science
ABAC
Tifton, GA12-2020
Skills
- Emergency Care
- Patient Assessments
- Patient Stabilization
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
- Medication Administration
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
- Trauma Nursing Core Course (TNCC)
- Nursing staff management
- Planning and scheduling
- Case reviews
- Regulatory compliance
- Chart audits
- Patient chart review
- Staff leadership
- Mid line certified
Timeline
Registered Nurse Supervisor
Memorial Hospital and Manor
12.2025 - Current
Behavioral Health Registered Nurse
Donalsonville Hospital
06.2025 - Current
Registered Nurse in Emergency Department
Donalsonville Hospital
06.2025 - Current
Emergency Room Registered Nurse
Memorial Hospital and Manor
10.2020 - Current
Manager
Maryland Fried Chicken
01.2014 - 08.2020
Associate Degree In Nursing - Science
ABAC