Kristal Ward
Dowagiac,MI
Summary
Dedicated and enthusiastic Licensed Practical Nurse with over 12 years of healthcare experience, including hospice, behavioral health, and corrections. Known for compassionate bedside care, strong therapeutic communication, and critical thinking in high-pressure situations. Seeking an opportunity to grow professionally while providing empathetic, patient-centered care that enhances quality of life and outcomes
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Licensed Practical Nurse
Center for Hospice Care
Mishawaka, IN
05.2024 - Current
- Support home visits as needed to ensure continuity of care.
- Provided emotional support to patients and families, fostering a compassionate environment during difficult times.
- Managed pain and anxiety effectively by closely monitoring symptoms and adjusting medications accordingly.
- Coordinated with physicians to adjust medications as needed for optimal palliative care outcomes.
- Advocated for patients'' wishes regarding medical treatment options, respecting cultural beliefs and values throughout the decision-making process.
- Recognized and understood specific stages of dying process, providing comfort-based care during vulnerable times.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Wellpath (St. Joseph County Jail)
South Bend, IN
06.2023 - Current
- Administered medications, including controlled narcotics, for up to 800 patients.
- Conducted daily assessments and reported condition changes to physicians.
- Documented patient interactions and maintained accurate medical records.
- Conducted routine health assessments and screenings for early detection of issues.
- Implemented infection control procedures to enhance safety within facility operations.
- Conducted mental health evaluations for inmates, identifying potential concerns and providing appropriate interventions.
- Developed strong rapport with inmates, fostering trust and open communication for effective healthcare delivery.
- Provided ongoing support for chronic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, monitoring progress and adjusting treatments accordingly.
- Assisted in emergency situations, providing critical first-response care while adhering to strict safety protocols.
- Managed high-stress situations effectively by maintaining a calm, professional demeanor and prioritizing patient safety above all else.
Registered Medical Assistant
InterCare Community Health Network
Benton Harbor, MI
01.2019 - 01.2023
Registered Medical Assistant
Ascension Medical Group
Dowagiac, MI
01.2016 - 01.2019
Registered Medical Assistant
Dr. John M. Stafford & Associates
St. Joseph, MI
01.2012 - 01.2016
Education
LPN Program - Health Care
Ivy Tech Community College
07-2023
Skills
- Medication administration
- Direct patient care
- Wound care
- Compassionate care
- Family communication
- Inpatient care
- HIPAA compliance
- Tracking symptoms
- Counting narcotics
- Multi-tasking and prioritization
- Patient education
Certification
- Registered Medical Assistant Certification, 2014–Present
- Certified in First Aid, CPR, and AED, 2008–Present
Timeline
Licensed Practical Nurse
Center for Hospice Care
05.2024 - Current
Licensed Practical Nurse
Wellpath (St. Joseph County Jail)
06.2023 - Current
Registered Medical Assistant
InterCare Community Health Network
01.2019 - 01.2023
Registered Medical Assistant
Ascension Medical Group
01.2016 - 01.2019
Registered Medical Assistant
Dr. John M. Stafford & Associates
01.2012 - 01.2016
LPN Program - Health Care
Ivy Tech Community College