Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
References
Timeline
Generic

Lisa Catalano

Albany,NY

Summary

Motivated Oncology Nurse offering many years experience providing exceptional treatment and compassionate care to patients undergoing cancer treatment. Supporting patients and family members through education, active listening, and dynamic interpersonal skills.

Overview

20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Oncology Infusion Registered Nurse

St. Mary Hospital
Troy, NY
05.2016 - 08.2024
  • Administered and monitored chemotherapy regimens, biotherapy agents, supportive care medications, hydration therapy and blood products.
  • Instructed family members in home care after discharge from the hospital setting.
  • Participated in research initiatives as needed.
  • Attended educational seminars regularly to stay current on new advances in Oncology nursing practice.
  • Performed patient assessments, including vital signs, prior to chemotherapy infusions.
  • Provided education and counseling for patients on their treatment plan and side effects of medications.
  • Managed acute infusion reactions such as fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, anaphylaxis and hypersensitivity reactions.
  • Assessed patient response to treatments and reported changes in condition to physicians.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary team members to ensure quality patient care.
  • Coordinated with other departments regarding scheduling of tests or procedures related to the oncology service line.
  • Maintained accurate records of all treatments administered to each patient in accordance with hospital policy.
  • Developed individualized plans of care based on assessment of physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of the patient.
  • Maintained a safe environment for patients receiving chemotherapy by following established safety protocols.
  • Provided emotional support to patients and families during difficult times associated with diagnosis and treatment.
  • Evaluated laboratory results for accuracy before administering treatment.
  • Ordered supplies necessary for infusion therapies according to departmental guidelines.
  • Reviewed medication orders for appropriateness prior to administration.
  • Provided direct supervision of nursing assistants assigned to the Oncology Infusion unit.
  • Adhered strictly to infection control policies while caring for immunocompromised patients.
  • Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.
  • Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to 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) system.

Oncology Nurse

St Peter's Hospital
Albany, NY
02.2010 - 05.2016
  • Educated patients on their diagnosis and treatment plans, providing emotional support when needed.
  • Provided direct patient care to cancer patients in an outpatient setting.
  • Assisted physicians in performing medical procedures such as biopsies, chemotherapy administration, and radiation treatments.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to create individualized plans of care for each patient.
  • Performed nursing assessments and developed interventions based on the assessment findings.
  • Administered prescribed medications including chemotherapy agents and monitored side effects.
  • Provided education regarding disease processes, medication management, symptom control and nutrition therapy to patients and families.
  • Maintained accurate documentation of patient assessments, changes in condition, treatments administered and progress notes in electronic health records.
  • Reviewed laboratory results for abnormalities and reported them to physicians for further investigation.
  • Participated in research activities related to oncology nursing practice improvement initiatives.
  • Managed complex pain management issues utilizing appropriate pharmacological interventions when necessary.
  • Provided guidance to family members regarding end-of-life decisions related to advanced stages of cancer.
  • Attended weekly tumor board meetings where cases were discussed among the multi-disciplinary team members.
  • Instructed newly hired nurses on policies and procedures specific to the Oncology Unit.
  • Expertly explained diagnoses to patients and discussed next steps for treatment and care in easy-to-understand terminology.
  • Administered chemotherapy to patients as indicated by chart instructions given by each physician.
  • Monitored vital signs of cancer patients during treatments, adjusting medications accordingly.
  • Provided emotional support for patients receiving physically taxing treatments.
  • Provided patients with information on range of subjects, not limited to side effects from chemotherapy and benefits of proper nutrition during treatment.
  • Promoted kind, compassionate environment, utilizing active listening and effective communication skills for cancer patients receiving treatment.
  • Emotionally supported patients receiving treatment by carefully listening and offering comfort.
  • Supported patients receiving treatment by carefully listening and offering comfort.
  • Wrote detailed notes regarding patient discussions in patient charts.
  • Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
  • Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
  • Monitored diet, physical activity, behaviors and other patient factors to assess conditions and adjust treatment plans.
  • Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
  • Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
  • Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
  • Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
  • Administered local, inhalation or intravenous anesthetics to patients undergoing procedures.
  • Coordinated with healthcare team to establish, enact and evaluate patient care plans.
  • Delivered information regarding care and medications to patients and caregivers in comprehendible terminology.
  • Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
  • Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
  • Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
  • Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
  • Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
  • Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.

Registered Nurse

St. David's HealthCare
Austin, TX
08.2010 - 02.2011

Same as previous

Registered Nurse

St. Peter's Health
Albany, NY
05.2007 - 08.2010
  • Provided patient care and education to patients with chronic illnesses.
  • Assessed, planned, implemented and evaluated nursing care for assigned patients.
  • Performed triage assessments of walk-in patients in a clinic setting.
  • Administered medications and treatments according to physician orders.
  • Monitored vital signs, administered injections, and provided assistance with medical procedures.
  • Documented patient progress notes accurately and efficiently in the electronic medical record system.
  • Collaborated with physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers and other healthcare professionals to develop individualized treatment plans for each patient.
  • Instructed patients on proper self-care techniques at home following discharge from the hospital.
  • Participated in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient care plans.
  • 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.
  • Actively participated in quality improvement initiatives within the department.
  • Utilized critical thinking skills to assess clinical situations quickly and accurately.
  • Maintained a safe environment for all patients by adhering to infection control policies and procedures.
  • Provided emotional support and comfort to families during difficult times.
  • Counseled patients regarding medication side effects or lifestyle changes necessary for improved health outcomes.
  • Assisted physicians during examinations or surgical procedures.
  • Developed educational materials for use in teaching sessions with patients or their families.
  • Coordinated discharge planning activities including arranging follow up appointments or referrals for additional services.
  • Evaluated effectiveness of interventions through ongoing assessment of patient responses.
  • Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
  • Administered medications and treatments, monitoring patients for reactions and side effects.
  • Adhered to infection control procedures to facilitate safe, clean patient environment.
  • Evaluated patients, recognized and addressed complications and coordinated treatment with other members of critical care team.
  • Maintained thorough, accurate and confidential documentation in electronic medical records.
  • Acted as patient advocate and implemented total patient care through team nursing process.
  • Recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
  • Monitored and managed various treatment and care interventions.
  • Advocated for patients by supporting and respecting basic rights, values, and beliefs.
  • Administered medications, tracked dosages, and documented patient conditions.
  • Trained and mentored new RNs on best practices, hospital policies and standards of care.
  • Updated charts throughout shifts with current, accurate information to maintain strict recordkeeping standards.
  • Provided patient and family health education focusing on self-management, prevention and wellness.
  • Assessed and prepared patients for procedures, performing initial and ongoing patient assessments.
  • Collected lab specimens, ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests and lab results.
  • Maintained personal and team compliance with medication administration standards and patient care best practices.
  • Oversaw patient admission and discharge processes to coordinate related paperwork.
  • Created, implemented and evaluated patient care plans with medical team.
  • Counseled patients and caregivers, providing emotional, psychological and spiritual support.
  • Collaborated with doctors to plan post-treatment home care and prevent return hospitalization.
  • Conducted intake assessments with patients and relatives to gather case history.
  • Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
  • Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
  • Monitored patients after surgery, answered questions, and provided home care strategies.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Collaborated with health groups to plan or implement programs designed to improve overall health of communities.
  • Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
  • Administered local, inhalation or intravenous anesthetics to patients undergoing procedures.

Patient Care Technician

St. Peter's Health
Albany, NY
05.2004 - 05.2007
  • Provided direct patient care and assistance to healthcare team members.
  • Assisted in preparing patients for examinations and treatments, including vital signs monitoring.
  • Performed EKGs, phlebotomy, and other laboratory tests as directed by physician or RN.
  • Ensured that all medical equipment was properly maintained and sterilized.
  • Maintained accurate records of patient care, condition, progress, and concerns.
  • Observed changes in patient's conditions and reported any abnormalities to the RN on duty.
  • Assisted with patient transfers from bed to wheelchair or strher as needed.
  • Provided emotional support for patients and families during difficult times.
  • Collected specimens such as urine samples for testing purposes according to established protocols.
  • Answered call lights promptly and responded appropriately to requests from patients, families, staff members.
  • Educated patients on basic health-related topics such as nutrition, hygiene habits.
  • Reported any observed changes in behavior or physical condition to the nursing staff immediately.
  • Organized supplies in order to maintain adequate stock levels throughout shift.
  • Conducted safety rounds regularly to ensure safe environment for patients.
  • Participated in quality improvement activities within the department.
  • Helped create a safe environment by following infection control policies.
  • Responded quickly in emergency situations by providing appropriate first aid measures.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care services.
  • Instructed new employees on proper techniques of performing daily tasks.
  • Obtained patient vital signs and reported results to staff nurse or physician to identify changes from prior measurements.
  • Responded to bell or light signal calls to assist patients with needs.
  • Performed variety of delegated basic patient care services to support nursing functions and activities of daily living.
  • Documented patient intake and dietary requirements and aided with feeding and monitoring.
  • Assisted with patient admissions, discharges and transfers.
  • Transported patients to other areas of hospital in wheelchairs and gurneys for tests, treatments and therapies.
  • Collected biological specimens and packaged for laboratory transport to complete diagnostic tests.
  • Performed minor housekeeping tasks to keep patient areas clean and sanitized.
  • Restocked unit frequently with necessary medical supplies.
  • Supported healthy patient skin with bedside baths, wound care and integrity checks.
  • Looked for physical, emotional, and symptomatic changes in patient condition and obtained necessary care for medical concerns.
  • Kept instruments and equipment clean and sanitized.
  • Notified senior staff of patient emergencies to optimize outcomes.
  • Prepared patient chart for admission and compiled appropriate paperwork.
  • Maintained inventory levels of stock items, supplies and equipment to foster smooth and cost-effective unit operations.
  • Communicated with patients to determine feelings, need for assistance or social and emotional support.
  • Documented information in patient charts and communicated status updates to interdisciplinary care team.
  • Supported daily living activities by serving meals, feeding, ambulating and turning over and positioning patients.
  • Answered patient call signals and signal lights to determine patients' needs.
  • Provided physical support to assist patients with bathing, dressing and toileting.
  • Collected specimens from patients for laboratory testing purposes.
  • Supplied, collected and emptied patient bedpans on frequent basis.
  • Safeguarded patient privacy with strict adherence to HIPAA protocols.
  • Assisted with lifting patients to move on or off beds, examination tables and surgical tables.
  • Planned and served meals and snacks to patients according to prescribed diets.
  • Kept medical supply room and patient rooms stocked with necessary supplies, equipment and instruments.
  • Assisted nurses with wound care for pressure ulcers, bed sores and surgical site wounds.
  • Measured and recorded food and liquid intake and output, reporting changes to medical or nursing staff.
  • Turned and repositioned bedridden patients to prevent bedsores.
  • Transported specimens, laboratory items or pharmacy items, verifying proper documentation and delivery to authorized personnel.
  • Reminded patients to take prescribed medications or nutritional supplements.
  • Shaved and draped patients to prepare for surgery, treatment or examination.
  • Exercised comatose and paralyzed patients to reduce delirium and improve physical function.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

Maria College of Albany
Albany, NY
05-2024

Associate of Science - Nursing

Maria College of Albany
Albany, NY
05-2007

High School Diploma -

Guilderland High School
Guilderland Center, NY
06-2000

Skills

  • IV Insertion
  • Emotional Support
  • Compassionate Care
  • Clinical Documentation
  • Venipuncture Expertise
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Documentation
  • Medical Recordkeeping
  • Vitals monitoring
  • Treatment Preparation
  • Student Precepting
  • Patient Condition Monitoring
  • Wound Care
  • Needs Assessment
  • Patient Examination
  • Infection Control
  • Care Coordination
  • Nursing Consultation
  • Direct Patient Care
  • Problem-solving aptitude
  • Diagnostic Test Ordering
  • Organizational Skills
  • Delegation and Motivation
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • Safety Protocols
  • Specialized Healthcare Referrals
  • Attention to Detail
  • Body mechanics knowledge
  • Effective Communication
  • Unit Oversight
  • Immunizations and Vaccinations
  • Medication and IV administration
  • Patient and family advocacy
  • Adaptability
  • Patient Education
  • Team Collaboration
  • IV drug therapy management
  • Monitoring Vital Signs
  • Diet and Nutrition
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Task Prioritization
  • Patient Care Oversight
  • Medication Administration
  • Training staff
  • Time Management
  • Critical Thinking
  • Procedure Assistance
  • Nursing Performance Assessment
  • Treatment Recommendations
  • Multitasking
  • Medical Supply Management
  • Medical Procedure Preparation
  • Clear Patient Communication
  • Professionalism
  • Analytical Thinking
  • First Aid
  • Reliability
  • ICD-10
  • Time management abilities
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Blood Draw and Sample Collection
  • Colostomy care familiarity
  • Diagnostic Test Evaluations

Certification

  • BLS
  • ONS Chemotherapy/Biotherapy
  • OCN

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Oncology Infusion Registered Nurse

St. Mary Hospital
05.2016 - 08.2024

Registered Nurse

St. David's HealthCare
08.2010 - 02.2011

Oncology Nurse

St Peter's Hospital
02.2010 - 05.2016

Registered Nurse

St. Peter's Health
05.2007 - 08.2010

Patient Care Technician

St. Peter's Health
05.2004 - 05.2007

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

Maria College of Albany

Associate of Science - Nursing

Maria College of Albany

High School Diploma -

Guilderland High School
Lisa Catalano