Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
References
Timeline
Generic

Karen Collins

Bangor,ME

Summary

With a proven track record at Dorothea Dix Psychiatric Center, I excel in delivering compassionate care and implementing effective treatment plans. My expertise in dementia knowledge and patient care, combined with a deep understanding of HIPAA compliance, enhances patient well-being and supports recovery processes. I am recognized for my empathy and complex problem-solving abilities, significantly improving patient outcomes.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant

Woodlands Senior Living
Brewer, Maine
08.2023 - 08.2024
  • Provided assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and grooming.Assisted residents with dementia to manage their symptoms and maintain their quality Followed treatment plans to help residents with communication skills, anxiety, aggression, and frustration.

CNA/Certified Medical Assistant

Orono Commons
Orono, Maine
06.2022 - 01.2023
  • Provided assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing and grooming.
  • Assisted patients in ambulation and transfers using proper body mechanics.
  • Performed vital sign assessments, such as taking blood pressure and temperature.
  • Documented patient care services by charting in designated areas.
  • Reported changes in patient conditions to registered nurse or physician.

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant

Treats Falls House
Orono, Maine
12.2020 - 12.2021
  • Provided assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing and grooming for residents with physical,cognitive,or emotional impairment caused by neurodevelopmental disorder.
  • Looked for physical, emotional, and symptomatic changes in patient condition and obtained necessary care for medical concerns.
  • Assisted residents in preparing for activities and social programs.

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant

Eastside Rehabilitation and Living Center
Bangor, Maine
04.2021 - 08.2021
  • Provided assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing and grooming.
  • Assisted patients in ambulation and transfers using proper body mechanics.
  • Reported changes in patient conditions to registered nurse or physician.

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant

Brewer Center For Health & Rehabilitation
Brewer, Maine
03.2020 - 07.2021
  • Provided assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing and grooming.
  • Assisted patients in ambulation and transfers using proper body mechanics.
  • Performed vital sign assessments, such as taking blood pressure and temperature.
  • Documented patient care services by charting in designated areas.
  • Reported changes in patient conditions to registered nurse or physician.

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant

Winterberry Heights Assisted Living
Bangor, Maine
10.2020 - 03.2021
  • Provided assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and grooming.
  • Assisted residents in mobility, including transferring them from wheelchairs to beds or chairs.
  • Monitored vital signs and reported any changes to supervisor.
  • Maintained a clean and safe environment for the residents.
  • Encouraged socialization between residents by organizing group activities and outings.
  • Assisted in providing emotional support to families during difficult times.
  • Participated in staff meetings and training sessions as required by facility policies.
  • Responded promptly to calls for help from the elderly or disabled clients.
  • Documented patient care services by charting in designated areas.
  • Answered patient call lights promptly and responded to requests appropriately.

MHW/Mental Health Worker

Dorothea Dix Psychiatric Center
Bangor, Maine
05.2014 - 07.2016
  • Participated in weekly multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient progress and plan further interventions.
  • Collaborated with other healthcare professionals such as social workers, psychiatrists, counselors and nurses to coordinate quality care for each client.
  • Ensured safety of all clients through continuous observation and monitoring during shift hours.
  • Maintained accurate records regarding treatments provided, medication administration and patient progress notes.
  • Assisted in transporting clients to appointments outside the facility when necessary.
  • Established trusting relationships with clients by demonstrating empathy and understanding towards them.
  • Supervised visitors entering the facility according to established security protocols.
  • Facilitated group therapy sessions for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and other mental health issues.

Mental Health Worker

Dorothea Dix Psychiatric Center
Bangor, Maine
07.2003 - 11.2010
  • Assessed clients' mental health, abilities and disabilities to develop individualized treatment plans.
  • Facilitated group therapy sessions for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and other mental health issues.
  • Collaborated with psychiatrists and medical professionals to ensure optimal client care.
  • Developed strategies for managing stress, anger and other challenging behaviors in a therapeutic setting.
  • Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss best practices for treating mental illness.
  • Trained families on how to recognize signs of mental illness and provide support for their loved ones.

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant

Westgate Manor
Bangor, Maine
07.1994 - 12.1996
  • Provided assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing and grooming.
  • Assisted patients in ambulation and transfers using proper body mechanics.
  • Performed vital sign assessments, such as taking blood pressure and temperature.
  • Documented patient care services by charting in designated areas.
  • Reported changes in patient conditions to registered nurse or physician.

Education

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant - Nursing

United Technical Center
Bangor, ME
06-1994

Skills

  • Dressing assistance
  • Basic Life Support
  • Direct Patient Care
  • Vital sign recording
  • Documenting behaviors
  • Care plan implementation
  • Electronic Charting
  • Infection control procedures
  • Monitoring fluids
  • Patient Lifting
  • Collecting specimens
  • Valid [State] driver's license
  • Range of motion exercises
  • Dementia and Alzheimer's knowledge
  • HIPAA Compliance
  • End of life care
  • Compassion and Empathy
  • Vital signs monitoring
  • Complex Problem-Solving
  • Patient Care
  • Toileting assistance

Certification

  • Have worked under the supervision of R.N since 1994. Mental Health Worker for 14 years in a Psychiatric hospital. Have certification in AED, first aid,CPR and have been certified in Mandt training.

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant

Woodlands Senior Living
08.2023 - 08.2024

CNA/Certified Medical Assistant

Orono Commons
06.2022 - 01.2023

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant

Eastside Rehabilitation and Living Center
04.2021 - 08.2021

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant

Treats Falls House
12.2020 - 12.2021

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant

Winterberry Heights Assisted Living
10.2020 - 03.2021

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant

Brewer Center For Health & Rehabilitation
03.2020 - 07.2021

MHW/Mental Health Worker

Dorothea Dix Psychiatric Center
05.2014 - 07.2016

Mental Health Worker

Dorothea Dix Psychiatric Center
07.2003 - 11.2010

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant

Westgate Manor
07.1994 - 12.1996

CNA/Certified Nursing Assistant - Nursing

United Technical Center
Karen Collins