Kristy Baars
West Allis,WI
Summary
With a robust background in mental health and emergency care, notably at Aurora Behavioral Health Services, I excel in clinical decision-making and therapeutic communication. Leveraging skills in psychopharmacology and quality improvement, I've significantly enhanced patient care protocols. My collaborative spirit and case management expertise underscore my commitment to advancing healthcare standards.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
DNP PMHNP Student
Mental Health Emergency Center (MHEC)
Milwaukee, WI
08.2024 - Current
- Provided crisis intervention services when needed including hospitalization recommendations if necessary.
- Assessed potential risk factors associated with suicidal ideation or violent behavior.
- Reviewed and interpreted diagnostic and laboratory tests.
- Collaborated closely with psychiatrists or other professionals to discuss unusual or complex cases.
Registered Nurse, Behavioral Health Coordinator
Aurora Behavioral Health Services
New Berlin, WI
09.2018 - Current
- Facilitated seamless coordination of patient behavioral health needs
- Utilized Behavioral Activation for effective patient support
- Assessed various care options including Intensive Outpatient and Partial Hospitalization
- Assessed patient responses to treatments
- Identified and addressed safety concerns with adequate solutions
- Consulted program psychiatrist on medication recommendations for patient care
- Actively participated in quality improvement initiatives within the department.
- Counseled patients regarding medication side effects or lifestyle changes necessary for improved health outcomes.
- Participated in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient care plans.
- Trained and mentored new RNs on best practices, organization policies and standards of care.
DNP PMHNP Student
Aurora Psychiatric Hospital
Wauwatosa, WI
01.2024 - 08.2024
- Performed comprehensive assessments using tools such as the DSM-5 criteria.
- Prescribed psychotropic medications based on patient needs and responses to treatment.
- Maintained accurate patient records and documentation of assessments, treatments, and progress notes.
- Facilitated psychoeducation classes to help patients understand their diagnosis and how to manage symptoms effectively.
- Utilized evidence-based interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy during individual sessions.
Registered Nurse, Intake Department
Aurora Psychiatric Hospital
Wauwatosa, WI
09.2020 - 06.2021
- Conducted thorough intake assessments for patients at Aurora Psychiatric Hospital
- Developed comprehensive safety plans in collaboration with patients' families
- Coordinated care transfers to tertiary facilities for unavailable services.
- Supervised inter-facility patient transfers ensuring adherence to EMTALA requirements
- Instructed patients on proper self-care techniques at home following discharge from the hospital.
- Advocated for patients by supporting and respecting basic rights, values, and beliefs.
- Trained and mentored new RNs on best practices, hospital policies and standards of care.
Registered Nurse, Emergency Department
VA Medical Center
Milwaukee, WI
10.2017 - 09.2018
- Quickly assess patient needs upon arrival and implement immediate care
- Collaborated with medical staff on current patient conditions
- Provide essential life support care in critical situations
- Administer IV therapy and wound care
Registered Nurse, Emergency Department
St. Francis Hospital
Milwaukee, WI
01.2016 - 10.2017
- Quickly assessed incoming patient needs and provided immediate care
- Implemented urgent treatment plans for critical patients
- Stabilize patients by managing basic life support needs
- Supported physicians in conducting exams and diagnostic tests
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize patient care delivery
- Utilized evidence-based practice guidelines for appropriate nursing interventions.
- Ensured proper handling of specimens for laboratory testing.
- Managed patient triage, prioritizing care based on severity of condition and available resources.
Weekend/Pool Social Worker
Community Memorial Hospital
Menomonee Falls, WI
06.2013 - 03.2016
- Coordinated sub-acute rehab, respite, and psychiatric services
- Intervenes in situations involving patient abuse, neglect, AODA needs, and end of life issues
- Facilitate family meetings to discuss discharge plans
- Supported healthcare team with advanced knowledge and insights
Social Work Case Manager
Wheaton Franciscan Health Care
Milwaukee, WI
09.2010 - 01.2016
- Optimizes discharge procedures for seamless patient transitions
- Completed utilization reviews for unit
- Coordinates with interdisciplinary team to assess and monitor patient care needs
- Apply evidence-based standards to assess care and length of stay
- Leads care conferences to encourage informed decision-making
- Championed core quality measures
- Enhanced educational initiatives to boost core measure compliance
- Directed team efforts as Lead Social Worker during mid-2012
- Scheduled on-call and pool staff, and trained new associates
On-Call Social Worker
Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital
Milwaukee, WI
02.2012 - 06.2015
- Supports patients and interdisciplinary teams in the Emergency Department at Columbia St. Mary's hospital
- Facilitated support for patients facing abuse, neglect, and substance abuse challenges
- Coordinated transitions to sub-acute rehabilitation, respite care, and inpatient psychiatric services
Initial Assessment Social Worker
Bureau of Milwaukee Child Welfare
Milwaukee, WI
01.2009 - 05.2011
- Conducted thorough evaluations of family environments to ensure child safety
- Evaluated incidents related to potential child maltreatment
- Arrange alternative care through relative, foster, or group home placement
- Compiled vital documentation to obtain provisional physical custody of the child
- Referred families to in-home services and community agencies
- Ensure compliance with Chapter 48 of the Wisconsin State Statutes
- Conduct forensic interviews using Stepwise Interviewing Guidelines
Assistant Manager
Kay Jewelers
Milwaukee, WI
06.2007 - 01.2009
- Oversee store and repair department operations to boost profitability
- Regularly surpassed expected benchmarks at Sterling Jewelers
- Implemented effective strategies for the recruitment and training of staff
Event Consultant
Karl’s Event Rental
Milwaukee, WI
03.2005 - 06.2006
- Executed comprehensive event support and coordination
- Developed lasting client relationships by consistently engaging in inside-sales activities
- Secured new partnerships through targeted outreach efforts.
Family Care Case Manager
Milwaukee Center for Independence
Milwaukee, WI
01.2004 - 03.2005
- Conducted comprehensive assessments for older adults in Milwaukee County
- Perform home and community visits to evaluate care standards
- Documents direct and collateral contacts in accordance with procedures
- Strengthened collaborative relationships with service recipients and their family members
Employment Counseling
Personnel Cabinet
Frankfort, KY
06.2000 - 01.2004
- Developed and facilitated training sessions for enhancing diversity awareness among staff
- Offered expert guidance on securing state government positions
- Reviewed applicants' backgrounds for position eligibility based on education and experience
- Clarified regulations and class specifications for staff, agencies, and applicants.
Education
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI05.2025
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Western Governors University
08-2018
Associate of Science - Nursing
Cardinal Stritch University
Glendale, WI12-2015
Master of Social Work -
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY05-2001
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY05-1999
Skills
- Behavioral Interventions
- Substance abuse treatment
- Psychopharmacology knowledge
- Clinical Decision Making
- Therapeutic communication
- Case Management
- Quality Improvement
- Team building
Certification
- 2022, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse, Board Certification, American Nurses Credentialing Center
- 2020, Problem Solving Treatment, AIMS Institute, University of Washington
Professional License
- Advanced Practice Social Worker, WI, 127534-121, 02/28/25
- Registered Nurse, WI, 226087-30, 02/28/24
Accomplishments
- Nurse of the Year, Nominee
- Daisy Award Nomination, multiple
- Living our Everyday Values Award
- Aurora Star Recipient
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
DNP PMHNP Student
Mental Health Emergency Center (MHEC)
08.2024 - Current
DNP PMHNP Student
Aurora Psychiatric Hospital
01.2024 - 08.2024
Registered Nurse, Intake Department
Aurora Psychiatric Hospital
09.2020 - 06.2021
Registered Nurse, Behavioral Health Coordinator
Aurora Behavioral Health Services
09.2018 - Current
Registered Nurse, Emergency Department
VA Medical Center
10.2017 - 09.2018
Registered Nurse, Emergency Department
St. Francis Hospital
01.2016 - 10.2017
Weekend/Pool Social Worker
Community Memorial Hospital
06.2013 - 03.2016
On-Call Social Worker
Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital
02.2012 - 06.2015
Social Work Case Manager
Wheaton Franciscan Health Care
09.2010 - 01.2016
Initial Assessment Social Worker
Bureau of Milwaukee Child Welfare
01.2009 - 05.2011
Assistant Manager
Kay Jewelers
06.2007 - 01.2009
Event Consultant
Karl’s Event Rental
03.2005 - 06.2006
Family Care Case Manager
Milwaukee Center for Independence
01.2004 - 03.2005
Employment Counseling
Personnel Cabinet
06.2000 - 01.2004
Doctor of Nursing Practice - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Western Governors University
Associate of Science - Nursing
Cardinal Stritch University
Master of Social Work -
University of Kentucky
Bachelor of Arts - Political Science
University of Kentucky
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