Kelly Desmarais
Mackinaw,IL
Summary
Compassionate and knowledgeable registered nurse with over 20 years of experience in the field of oncology caring for the specialist of patient population. Skilled in patient support and care developed within clinical oncology environment, seeking to transition into new field as a Family Nurse Practitioner.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Oncology Nurse Navigator
OSF Saint Francis Medical Center
08.2017 - Current
- Advocated for the needs and preferences of patients during interdisciplinary team meetings to optimize treatment outcomes.
- Enhanced patient satisfaction by providing emotional support, education, and resources throughout the cancer treatment process.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop individualized treatment plans that addressed each patient''s unique needs.
- Educated patients on side effect management strategies, empowering them to take control of their health during treatment.
- Improved patient outcomes by developing comprehensive care plans and collaborating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
Registered Nurse
Beuhler Home
02.2016 - 10.2019
- Administered medications safely according to established guidelines while closely monitoring for side effects or adverse reactions requiring intervention.
- Conducted thorough patient assessments to identify changes in condition, promptly notifying physicians and initiating appropriate interventions when necessary.
- Provided support for patients'' families during difficult medical decisions or end-of-life care, serving as a liaison between the healthcare team and loved ones.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
Oncology Infusion Nurse/Clinic Desk Nurse
Illinois Cancer Care
01.2009 - 08.2017
- Educated patients on chemotherapy medications, side effects, and self-care measures, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health.
- Consistently adhered to medication administration policies, minimizing the risk of errors or adverse events involving high-risk medications such as chemotherapy agents.
- Reduced treatment complications by closely monitoring patients for adverse reactions and promptly notifying the oncologist.
- Demonstrated strong critical thinking skills when assessing patients'' responses to therapy or detecting potential complications related to cancer treatments.
Registered Nurse
Central Illinois Radiation Oncology
11.2007 - 01.2009
- Conducted thorough patient assessments to identify changes in condition, promptly notifying physicians and initiating appropriate interventions when necessary.
- Assisted with the design and implementation of quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing patient satisfaction and overall care delivery within the radiation oncology department.
- Promoted a safe working environment within the radiation oncology department by adhering to safety protocols and reporting any potential hazards or incidents promptly.
Inpatient Oncology Nurse
Methodist Medical Center
06.2005 - 01.2009
- Assessed patients during course of treatment to identify concerning reactions.
- Maintained detailed documentation of patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes using electronic health record systems.
- Participated in continuous learning opportunities to stay current on advancements in oncology treatments and nursing techniques.
- Administered chemotherapy, pain medications and other medicines based on physician orders and patient requirements.
- Established rapport with diverse patient populations by demonstrating empathy and understanding during difficult periods of illness or treatment.
- Provided compassionate care for patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, and stem cell transplants.
Inpatient Medical/Nephrology Nurse Specialist
Rush University Medical Center, RUMC
05.2004 - 06.2005
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of nephrology nursing standards through ongoing professional development opportunities and membership in relevant organizations.
- Coordinated with dialysis technicians to ensure equipment maintenance and troubleshooting were effectively addressed, minimizing downtime for patients.
- Coordinated and delivered direct care to nephrology patients.
Education
Master of Science - Family Nurse Practitioner
Saint Francis College of Nursing
Peoria05-2025
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Illinois State University Mennonite College
Normal05-2020
Associate of Applied Science - Nursing
Illinois Central College
Peoria05-2004
Certification
- Oncology Certified Nurse (2012 - Current)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Certified
- State Of Illinois: Registered Professional Nurse (041.343626)
Affiliations
- Oncology Nursing Society
- Sigma Theta Tau (Xi Pi Chapter)
Timeline
Oncology Nurse Navigator
OSF Saint Francis Medical Center
08.2017 - Current
Registered Nurse
Beuhler Home
02.2016 - 10.2019
Oncology Infusion Nurse/Clinic Desk Nurse
Illinois Cancer Care
01.2009 - 08.2017
Registered Nurse
Central Illinois Radiation Oncology
11.2007 - 01.2009
Inpatient Oncology Nurse
Methodist Medical Center
06.2005 - 01.2009
Inpatient Medical/Nephrology Nurse Specialist
Rush University Medical Center, RUMC
05.2004 - 06.2005
- Oncology Certified Nurse (2012 - Current)
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Certified
- State Of Illinois: Registered Professional Nurse (041.343626)
Master of Science - Family Nurse Practitioner
Saint Francis College of Nursing
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Illinois State University Mennonite College
Associate of Applied Science - Nursing
Illinois Central College
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