Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Work Preference
Work Availability
Timeline
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Karen Melia

Karen Melia

Fort White,FL

Summary

Patient-oriented nursing professional with 22 years of hands-on experience in delivering quality direct and indirect patient care to individuals in LTC settings. Skillfully completes tasks and fosters relationships with patients, caregivers and coworkers to drive patient care goals and advance nursing philosophies. Thoughtful and organized Senior LPN/ Charge Nurse with ample experience supporting general nursing staff in providing exceptional care to patients of varying need and distress. Team-oriented leader with flexibility and creativity through support of collaborative atmosphere and individuals' leveraging of personal strengths. Well-versed in quick analysis and assessment of patient charts to recommend care regimens based on extensive field experience.

Overview

20
20
years of professional experience

Work History

Charge Licensed Practical Nurse

Rumford Community Home
Rumford, ME
08.2021 - 10.2023
  • Coordinated communication between physicians and other healthcare professionals regarding patient care.
  • Conducted daily rounds to assess patient conditions, evaluate progress towards goals, and document changes in status or plan of care as needed.
  • Performed health education activities with patients to promote understanding of medical condition and self-care skills.
  • Assisted with admission and discharge planning for assigned patients.
  • Participated in quality improvement initiatives to ensure best practice standards were met within the unit setting.
  • Maintained accurate records of all treatment interventions provided to each patient.
  • Collaborated with other departments such as pharmacy, laboratory services, physical therapy, to ensure proper delivery of services.
  • Implemented safety protocols when administering medications or performing treatments.
  • Delegated tasks appropriately among staff members according to their qualifications.
  • Responded quickly to emergent situations such as cardiac arrest or respiratory distress.
  • Ensured compliance with infection control protocols throughout the facility.
  • Provided emotional support for families facing difficult decisions regarding end-of-life care.
  • Managed staffing levels within the unit while ensuring optimal levels of patient care.
  • Assessed patients' health conditions and monitored changes in their condition.
  • Provided patient care plans, treatments, and medications according to physicians' orders.
  • Maintained accurate medical records and updated them regularly.
  • Supervised the activities of other nursing staff members and provided guidance when necessary.
  • Performed routine checks on equipment used for patient care.
  • Identified potential problems or risks that could affect patient outcomes.
  • Conducted regular training sessions for new hires or existing staff members on proper clinical procedures or techniques.
  • Carried out physician orders accurately while adhering to hospital policies and procedures.
  • Assisted in developing policies related to infection control practices.
  • Participated in creating a safe environment by following fire safety regulations.
  • Promoted positive relationships between patients, families, visitors, physicians, nurses, volunteers.
  • Educated patients about their diagnoses and treatments while providing emotional support.
  • Precepted new staff nurses to provide education on hospital policies and procedures, patient care skills, medical procedures and techniques and patient assessments and interventions.
  • Created and implemented care plans after reviewing patients' imaging and test results, working closely with other members of interdisciplinary team.
  • Observed and reported changes in condition of patients and signs and symptoms of deviations from normal health status.
  • Administered medications in accordance with policies and legal limitations.
  • Collaborated with supervisor to prepare nursing assessment summaries and health care plans.
  • Documented adverse patient reactions to medications and reported findings to supervisors.
  • Delivered emotional, psychological and spiritual support to patients and families to promote compassionate environment.
  • Educated patients on wound and disease self-management techniques.
  • Assisted physicians and nurses with special procedures.
  • Educated patients on conditions, medications and self-care skills.
  • Conducted daily rounds to assess patient condition and distribute medications.
  • Advocated for patients by respecting and supporting values, basic rights and beliefs.
  • Implemented new floor assignments based on evaluation of staffing requirements.
  • Evaluated patient care needs to prioritize treatment and maintain patient flow.
  • Collected blood, urine or sputum samples from patients to perform routine lab tests.
  • Documented and collected vital signs to track patient conditions.
  • Established direct lines of communication between nursing staff and other interested departments, supporting patient care with collaboration between personnel with complementary specialties.
  • Recorded patient medical history, vital statistics and test results in medical records.
  • Monitored patients with incontinence issues, both after procedures and in recovery from trauma, installing catheters and monitoring bedpans to keep patients safe and comfortable.
  • Counseled and educated patients specific to diagnosis and health history.
  • Used sterile techniques to prepare patients for procedures.
  • Administered high consequence medications with exacting accuracy, monitoring patients for side effects and supporting patient comfort and comprehensive recovery.
  • Supported nurses in routine wound care and attending to complex lacerations and punctures.
  • Analyzed charts and utilized data to recommend proper treatment courses to physicians.
  • Administered medications and therapies in accordance with physicians orders.

Senior LPN/LPN Wound Care Nurse

Gainesville Health Rehab
Gainesville, FL
09.2020 - 09.2022
  • Assisted physicians with patient care by taking vital signs, administering injections and performing other nursing duties.
  • Provided direct physical and emotional support to patients and their families.
  • Performed routine laboratory tests including urinalysis, blood glucose monitoring and others.
  • Maintained accurate medical records of each patient's health condition.
  • Ensured that all medications were administered accurately and on time as prescribed by the physician.
  • Observed patients for any changes in their condition or behavior, reported findings to the supervisor or physician in charge.
  • Monitored patient progress during treatments or procedures, reporting any abnormalities to the healthcare team immediately.
  • Assessed patient needs through interviews and physical examinations while adhering to safety standards.
  • Provided emotional support during difficult times such as end-of-life decisions or family disputes over treatment options.
  • Performed wound care including changing dressings, cleaning wounds, applying ointments and medications and providing other necessary treatments.
  • Conducted daily rounds visiting assigned patients ensuring they are comfortable and have all necessary supplies available.
  • Prepared equipment for use during treatments such as setting up IV lines or placing catheters correctly according to hospital policies.
  • Evaluated effectiveness of interventions implemented based on patient responses or feedback from family members.
  • Administered medications orally, intravenously or intramuscularly depending on the prescription given by the doctor.
  • Observed, charted and reported developments in patient health condition in 60-bed hospital.
  • Coordinated with doctors and registered nurses to develop care plans for patients.
  • Collected and documented vital signs to track current patient conditions.
  • Looked for physical, emotional and symptomatic changes in patient condition and obtained necessary care for medical concerns.
  • Instructed patients and their families about disease prevention, proper nutrition, medication management and other health related topics.
  • Coordinated with interdisciplinary team members such as doctors, nurses and social workers to ensure quality patient care was provided.
  • Participated in educational programs to keep up-to-date on new developments in nursing practice.

Home Health Nurse

Nursecore
Gainesville, FL
07.2009 - 08.2020
  • Performed patient assessments including vital signs, physical examinations, height and weight measurements, and documentation of findings.
  • Provided education on medications, treatments, and health maintenance activities to patients and families.
  • Administered prescribed medications and treatments in accordance with approved nursing techniques.
  • Monitored patient safety by maintaining a safe environment for all staff members, visitors and patients.
  • Maintained accurate records of patient care services by documenting assessment results in medical record.
  • Identified changes in patient condition by observing skin color, pulse rate, breathing rate, blood pressure or other indicators; notifying supervisor as necessary.
  • Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss plan of care for individual patients.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of emergency procedures such as code blue response protocol.
  • Evaluated effectiveness of interventions through chart reviews or direct observation.
  • Reported any unusual incidents involving patients or staff members immediately to supervisor.
  • Provided emotional support and reassurance to family members during times of distress.
  • Instructed individuals on how to properly use medical devices such as oxygen tanks or catheters.
  • Assessed pain levels using appropriate scales such as visual analog scale or numerical rating scale.
  • Implemented infection control measures such as hand hygiene according to hospital policies.
  • Responded quickly and appropriately to life-threatening situations utilizing advanced cardiac life support protocols when necessary.
  • Initiated admissions, transitions and discharges by communicating with colleagues as well as patient
  • Supervised CNAs and other staff delivering care in 22 setting by coaching and supporting.
  • Interpreted and implemented individual care plans.
  • Completed required forms and chart documentation of vital signs, medications and other information.
  • Initiated admissions, transitions and discharges by communicating with colleagues as well as patients and family members.

Floor Nurse/Unit Manager

Park Meadows Health & Rehabilitation Center
Gainesville, FL
08.2008 - 08.2009
  • Assisted patients in ambulating and transferring to beds, wheelchairs, examination tables, and other areas of the hospital.
  • Performed patient assessments including vital signs, physical examinations, height and weight measurements, and documentation of findings.
  • Provided education on medications, treatments, and health maintenance activities to patients and families.
  • Monitored patient safety by maintaining a safe environment for all staff members, visitors and patients.
  • Maintained accurate records of patient care services by documenting assessment results in medical record.
  • Identified changes in patient condition by observing skin color, pulse rate, breathing rate, blood pressure or other indicators; notifying supervisor as necessary.
  • Administered prescribed medications and treatments in accordance with approved nursing techniques.
  • Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss plan of care for individual patients.
  • Communicated effectively with physicians regarding changes in patient status or treatment plans.
  • Coordinated discharge planning with social workers and home healthcare personnel to ensure continuity of care after leaving the facility.
  • Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while delivering quality patient care.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop individualized plans of care for each assigned patient.
  • Assessed pain levels using appropriate scales such as visual analog scale or numerical rating scale.
  • Implemented infection control measures such as hand hygiene according to hospital policies.
  • Instructed individuals on how to properly use medical devices such as oxygen tanks or catheters.
  • Provided emotional support and reassurance to family members during times of distress.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of emergency procedures such as code blue response protocol.
  • Evaluated effectiveness of interventions through chart reviews or direct observation.
  • Reported any unusual incidents involving patients or staff members immediately to supervisor.
  • Responded quickly and appropriately to life-threatening situations utilizing advanced cardiac life support protocols when necessary.
  • Supervised CNAs and other staff delivering care in [Type] setting by coaching and supporting.16
  • Initiated admissions, transitions and discharges by communicating with colleagues as well as patients and family members.
  • Completed required forms and chart documentation of vital signs, medications and other information.
  • Interpreted and implemented individual care plans.
  • Communicated with nursing personnel to enforce procedures, policies and regulations.
  • Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
  • Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
  • Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
  • Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
  • Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
  • Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
  • Coordinated with healthcare team to establish, enact and evaluate patient care plans.
  • Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
  • Delivered information regarding care and medications to patients and caregivers in comprehendible terminology.
  • Monitored diet, physical activity, behaviors and other patient factors to assess conditions and adjust treatment plans.
  • Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
  • Modified patient treatment plans as indicated by patients' responses and conditions.
  • Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
  • Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
  • Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
  • Achieved departmental goals and objectives by instituting new processes and standards for in-patient care.
  • Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.

Agency Nurse/LPN Nurse

Suwannee Medical Personnel
Lake City, FL
04.2004 - 07.2008
  • Assessed and monitored patient conditions, including vital signs, symptoms, and reactions to treatments.
  • Administered prescribed medications and treatments in accordance with approved nursing techniques.
  • Performed routine diagnostic tests such as electrocardiogram according to established protocols.
  • Provided direct patient care, including wound care, medication administration and IV therapy.
  • Conducted ongoing assessments of the patient's physical condition during treatment sessions.
  • Instructed patients on proper health maintenance and disease prevention methods.
  • Utilized critical thinking skills to assess patient needs and provide appropriate interventions.
  • Developed educational materials for staff members regarding best practices in nursing care.
  • Facilitated communication between physicians, nurses, family members and other healthcare personnel involved in a patient's care.
  • Ensured compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, standards of practice and policies and procedures related to nursing practice.
  • Responded quickly and effectively to emergent situations requiring immediate attention.
  • Adhered strictly to infection control guidelines while providing quality patient care.
  • Discussed disease process, risk factors and ways to alleviate complications to facilitate recovery upon discharge.
  • Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
  • Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
  • Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
  • Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
  • Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.

Education

Nursing - Nursing

Florida Gateway College
Lake City, FL
12.2002

Skills

  • Medication Side Effect Knowledge
  • Intramuscular Injections
  • Supporting Daily Living Needs

Work Preference

Work Type

Full TimeContract Work

Work Availability

monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Timeline

Charge Licensed Practical Nurse

Rumford Community Home
08.2021 - 10.2023

Senior LPN/LPN Wound Care Nurse

Gainesville Health Rehab
09.2020 - 09.2022

Home Health Nurse

Nursecore
07.2009 - 08.2020

Floor Nurse/Unit Manager

Park Meadows Health & Rehabilitation Center
08.2008 - 08.2009

Agency Nurse/LPN Nurse

Suwannee Medical Personnel
04.2004 - 07.2008

Nursing - Nursing

Florida Gateway College

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Karen Melia