Kathy Rapert
Sikeston,MO
Summary
Dynamic Registered Nurse with extensive experience at Paradigm, excelling in patient care planning and critical care. Proven leadership in nursing staff development and infection control, ensuring compliance with HIPAA standards. Recognized for strong clinical judgment and effective communication, enhancing patient outcomes and fostering collaborative healthcare environments.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Registered Nurse Director of Nursing
Paradigm
Dexter, MO
07.2024 - 09.2026
- Administered medications and therapies per established protocols.
- Monitored patient vital signs and reported changes to the healthcare team.
- Educated patients and families on health management and recovery plans.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to enhance patient care planning and optimize treatment outcomes.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to coordinate patient care strategies.
- Assisted in developing nursing care plans tailored to individual needs.
- Implemented infection control measures to ensure a safe environment.
- Documented patient progress and maintained accurate medical records.
- Provided emotional support and counseling to patients and families during care.
- Utilized critical thinking skills to assess clinical situations quickly and accurately.
- Collaborated with physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers and other healthcare professionals to develop individualized treatment plans for each patient.
- Assessed, planned, implemented and evaluated nursing care for assigned patients.
- Maintained a safe environment for all patients by adhering to infection control policies and procedures.
- Monitored vital signs, administered injections, and provided assistance with medical procedures.
- Trained and mentored new RNs on best practices and hospital policies to ensure high-quality patient care delivery.
- Administered medications and treatments, monitoring patients for reactions and side effects.
- Advocated for patients by supporting and respecting basic rights, values, and beliefs.
- Evaluated effectiveness of interventions through ongoing assessment of patient responses.
- Evaluated patients, recognized and addressed complications and coordinated treatment with other members of the critical care team.
- Adhered to infection control procedures to facilitate a safe, clean patient environment.
- Provided emotional support and comfort to families during difficult times.
- Provided patient care and education to patients with chronic illnesses.
- Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
- Updated charts throughout shifts with current, accurate information to maintain strict recordkeeping standards.
- Collected lab specimens, ordered and interpreted diagnostic tests and lab results.
- Provided patient and family health education focusing on self-management, prevention and wellness.
- Oversaw patient admission and discharge processes to coordinate related paperwork.
- Counseled patients regarding medication side effects or lifestyle changes necessary for improved health outcomes.
- Created, implemented and evaluated patient care plans with medical team.
- Monitored patients after surgery, answered questions, and provided home care strategies.
- Maintained personal and team compliance with medication administration standards and patient care best practices.
- Ensured compliance with standards of professional practice as well as state and federal regulations related to health care delivery services.
- Demonstrated knowledge of current trends in nursing practices by attending continuing education classes or seminars.
- Conducted intake assessments with patients and relatives to gather case history.
- Actively participated in quality improvement initiatives within the department.
- Coordinated discharge planning activities including arranging follow up appointments or referrals for additional services.
- 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) systems
- Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid the physician during examinations and treatment of patients.
- Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess the patient's condition.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
- Collaborated with health groups to plan or implement programs designed to improve overall health of communities.
- Instituted new processes and standards for in-patient care, successfully achieving departmental goals and improving patient outcomes.
- Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.
- Organized and replenished clinical workstations and procedure rooms with essential medical supplies to ensure readiness for patient care.
Agency
Multiple
01.2014 - 07.2024
- Trauma: Lexington, Ky
- Worked at Novant Health in Huntersville
- Collaborated with diverse coworkers to achieve team goals and resolve product and service issues.
- Executed day-to-day duties with accuracy and efficiency, ensuring operational reliability.
Registered Nurse, Emergency Department
Missouri Delta Medical Center
Sikeston, Mo
01.2004 - 01.2019
- Administered medications and treatments as per established protocols in the emergency department.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to coordinate patient care and improve outcomes.
- Monitored vital signs and assessed patient conditions during emergency situations.
- Educated patients and families on treatment plans and discharge instructions.
- Documented patient information accurately in electronic health records systems.
- Assisted with triage processes to prioritize patient care based on urgency.
- Provided emotional support and reassurance to patients in critical conditions.
- Provided compassionate care for patients experiencing medical emergencies. experiencing acute traumas, including cardiac arrests, strokes and gunshot wounds.
- Administered medications, intravenous fluids, treatments, and other therapies as prescribed by physicians.
- Maintained open and clear communication with physicians to coordinate effective patient care.
- Trained other nurses on patient care and daily tasks, supporting growth, and professional development.
- Maintained accurate records of all assessments, treatments, medications administered, and other pertinent information related to patient's care.
- Monitored cardiac rhythm strips and titrated vasoactive medications as ordered by physicians.
- Coordinated care with physicians and other clinical staff to prepare for treatment, carry out interventions, and enhance the continuum of care.
- Utilized evidence-based practice guidelines for appropriate nursing interventions.
- Responded quickly to life-threatening situations utilizing advanced emergency skills.
- Performed initial assessment of patients in the Emergency Department, including vital signs and medical history.
- Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
- Triaged and treated high-volume caseload in a busy emergency room setting.
- Assisted with diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds.
- Participated in educational activities such as seminars or classes related to emergency nursing practices.
- Educated patients and families about health maintenance and disease prevention.
- Conducted patient assessments and diagnostic tests to provide the physician with important patient health information.
- Actively participated in staff meetings to discuss current trends in emergency nursing practices.
- Assessed changes in patient condition and notified the physician.
- Observed nurse administration of oral, intramuscular, and IV medications to patients as prescribed, while monitoring responses for adverse reactions.
- Responded to patient inquiries to clarify treatment processes and health concerns, and provided take-home materials for further information.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives within the Emergency Department setting.
- Maintained a comprehensive base of unit supplies to meet expected patient demands, public health emergencies, and mass casualty incidences.
- Responded quickly to codes and coordinated efficient and skilled care.
- Upheld patient safety standards by preventing unauthorized access or incorrect dosage administration.
- Developed individualized plans of care based on each patient's needs.
- Treated patients by administering various types of medication and therapies.
- Supported criminal inquiries by reporting injuries and completing evidence collection kits.
- Ensured proper handling of specimens for laboratory testing.
- Conducted regular rounds throughout the department ensuring a safe environment for staff and patients.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to develop individualized patient care plans.
- Ensured compliance with hospital policies and procedures related to safety and infection control measures.
- Collaborated with public safety and community organizations to improve emergency response and patient outcomes.
- Facilitated seamless transfer of patients to other units or facilities, ensuring continuity of care.
- Monitored patient vital signs and symptoms, responding rapidly to changes in condition and initiating appropriate interventions.
- Operated and maintained emergency department equipment, performing regular checks for functionality and safety.
- Administered medications, treatments, and vaccines as prescribed, adhering to strict safety protocols.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and department efficiency.
- Utilized advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) and basic life support (BLS) techniques during critical situations.
- Managed patient triage, prioritizing care based on severity of condition and available resources.
- Advocated for patient rights and ethical treatment, ensuring respect and dignity in patient care.
- Participated in professional development programs to stay current with advances in emergency nursing practice.
- Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid the physician during examination and treatment of patients.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) EHR).
Paramedic Supervisor
South Scott County Ambulance
Sikeston, Mo.
01.1994 - 01.2004
- Supervised paramedic teams to ensure effective patient care delivery.
- Trained new paramedics on operational procedures and safety standards.
- Managed daily staffing schedules to maintain optimal coverage levels.
- Collaborated with local hospitals to streamline patient handoff processes.
- Resolved conflicts among team members to promote a positive work environment.
- Communicated regularly with EMS directors from other organizations regarding mutual aid agreements.
- Conducted regular drills, training sessions, and emergency response exercises for staff members.
- Inspected ambulances prior to each shift for cleanliness, proper functioning of the equipment.
- Performed administrative duties such as scheduling shifts, managing payroll records, ordering supplies.
- Reviewed incident reports submitted by paramedics for accuracy and completeness.
- Provided clinical guidance to paramedics regarding diagnosis, treatment protocols, medications.
- Attended continuing education classes in order to stay current on industry trends and best practices.
- Ensured that all equipment was properly maintained and calibrated according to safety standards.
- Coordinated patient care activities on-site at emergency scenes or during transport to healthcare facilities.
- Participated in meetings with local government representatives in order to discuss issues related to ambulance services.
- Supervised the daily operations of a fleet of ambulances and paramedics.
- Responded promptly to complaints from patients or their families concerning paramedic services provided.
- Remained level-headed and proactive during emergency situations.
- Assessed emergency situations and prioritized medical care for patients.
- Demonstrated dedication to providing quality care through continued training and education.
- Administered emergency care to save lives during critical situations. by administering medications, monitoring cardiac output and performing emergency intubations.
- Responded quickly to medical emergencies to promote best possible health outcomes.
- Administered CPR and other life-saving techniques on patients in cardiac arrest.
- Transported patients from accident scenes to hospitals in emergency vehicles.
- Explained each step of treatment to conscious patients to reduce fear and invoke calm.
- Documented care provided to patients into reports for submission to supervisor.
- Monitored patients from scene to hospital transfer while conducting in-transit care.
- Treated patients suffering from heart attacks, strokes and motor vehicle accident injuries.
- Performed standard testing and administered medication to manage care in the field and in transit.
- Assessed scene on arrival to identify potential safety issues and hazards affecting first responders.
- Cleaned wounds and applied gauze and bandages to prevent infection.
- Obtained details regarding patient by questioning family members and bystanders.
- Performed emergency life support and treated sick and injured persons at remote locations.
- Inserted IVs and administered oral and injectable medications.
- Provided reassurance and support to calm patients during emergencies. by carefully explaining each step and remaining composed.
- Assessed the scene upon arrival for possible hazards or dangerous situations.
- Performed CPR and used a defibrillator on cardiac patients.
- Assessed patients and environment, administered CPR and stabilized patients for transport to hospital.
- Explained medical terminology in non-complex terms to patients.
- Immobilized patients for transport using a backboard or other spinal mobilization.
- Bandaged wounds and determined necessity for stitches or sutures.
- Positioned patients in preparation for treatment and transport.
- Reported and documented medical treatment administered on-site and during transport to the healthcare facility.
- Responded promptly to emergency calls and drove ambulance safely to site.
- Suctioned airways to clear obstructions and help patients breathe.
- Testified in court regarding the circumstances of paramedic calls and gave depositions.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Central Methodist University
Fayette, MO12-2014
Associate of Science - Nursing
Three Rivers
Poplar Bluff, MO12-2007
Skills
- Medication administration
- Patient monitoring
- Nursing assessment
- Patient care planning
- Infection control measures
- Emergency coordination
- Critical care
- Strong clinical judgment
- Clinical data analysis
- Electronic health records
- HIPAA education
- Nursing staff leadership
- Infectious disease control
- Oxygen saturation standards
- Time management
- Behavioral health support
- Professional bedside manner
Personal Information
Title: RN, BSN, EMT-P
Accomplishments
- Employee of the month
Timeline
Registered Nurse Director of Nursing
Paradigm
07.2024 - 09.2026
Agency
Multiple
01.2014 - 07.2024
Registered Nurse, Emergency Department
Missouri Delta Medical Center
01.2004 - 01.2019
Paramedic Supervisor
South Scott County Ambulance
01.1994 - 01.2004
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Central Methodist University
Associate of Science - Nursing
Three Rivers