Lori Ballard
White Heath,USA
Summary
Compassionate and versatile Level III Registered Nurse with over 17 years experience in both inpatient pediatric and ambulatory orthopedic settings. Adept at providing high-quality, developmentally appropriate care to pediatric patients in acute care environments, including assessments and monitoring, clinical procedures, medication administration and family education. Experienced in outpatient musculoskeletal care including surgical prep and recovery education, telephone triage, wound care, suture/staple removal, and DME fitting in a fast-paced clinic setting. Committed to optimizing patient outcomes by providing compassionate care, utilizing strong clinical judgment and communication and collaborating effectively with the interdisciplinary care team.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Registered Nurse
Carle Foundation Hospital
10.2012 - Current
- Provide direct care to hospitalized pediatric patients including general medical-surgical and advanced levels of care.
- Administer medications, monitor vital signs, and maintain detailed patient records.
- Educate families on treatment plans, medications, and post-discharge care.
- Collaborate with physicians, therapists, and social workers to deliver integrated patient care.
- Precept new nurses and nursing students in clinical best practices.
- Cross-trained in Step-Down NICU caring for neonates requiring moderate support including oxygen therapy, gavage feeding and close monitoring of growth and development.
- Previous experience as a Unit Nurse Leader overseeing the clinical and administrative operations of the inpatient pediatric progressive care unit, ensuring high-quality care, effective staff coordination, compliance with healthcare standards and demonstrating strong customer service.
- Held a past role as a cross-trained nurse in Postpartum, Newborn Nursery and Labor & Delivery baby advocate roles providing comprehensive maternal and newborn nursing care and ensuring maternal and newborn safety and comfort.
Registered Nurse
Carle Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
06.2008 - 10.2012
- Conducted patient assessments and monitored musculoskeletal conditions via telephone triage and nurse visits in an outpatient setting.
- Applied and removed casts, splints, and braces, ensuring proper fit and patient comfort.
- Provided wound care, including dressing changes and suture/staple removal.
- Educated patients and families on post-operative care, pain management, and mobility restrictions.
- Collaborated with podiatric surgeon, nurse practitioner, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care plans.
Certified Athletic Trainer
Carle Sports Medicine
07.2006 - 06.2008
- Evaluated and treated athletic injuries during high school practice and games, providing immediate first aid and emergency care.
- Collaborated with coaches to design injury prevention strategies and ensure safe training practices.
- Maintained detailed injury reports and communicated effectively with healthcare providers for referrals and follow-up care.
- Managed medical equipment and supplies to ensure readiness for all sporting events.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Western Governors University
05.2016
Associates Degree - Nursing
Parkland College
05.2008
Bachelor of Science - Kinesiology, Athletic Training
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
05.2006
Skills
- Patient assessments and monitoring
- IV and NG insertion and phlebotomy
- Direct patient care
- Medication administration
- Wound care and post-op recovery
- Patient/family education and teaching
- Interdisciplinary team collaboration
- Adaptability in fast-paced settings
- Epic EMR proficiency
- Attention to detail
- Culturally competent care for diverse patient populations
- Strong interpersonal communication and customer service
Certification
- Registered Nurse (RN) – Illinois, 2008–Present
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) – American Heart Association
- Basic Life Support (BLS) – American Heart Association
- Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) – Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
Timeline
Registered Nurse
Carle Foundation Hospital
10.2012 - Current
Registered Nurse
Carle Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
06.2008 - 10.2012
Certified Athletic Trainer
Carle Sports Medicine
07.2006 - 06.2008
Bachelor of Science - Kinesiology, Athletic Training
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Western Governors University
Associates Degree - Nursing
Parkland College
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