Lori Westra
Mattoon,USA
Summary
Cares for patients' physical and mental health with exceptional clinical, interpersonal and time management abilities. Licensed in Illinois. Diligent about helping people of all backgrounds with diverse healthcare needs. Top skills in communication, critical thinking, and innovation.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
School Nurse
Riddle Elementary School
Mattoon, USA
01.2020 - 05.2024
- Provided medical care to approximately 600 students and 100 staff as sole campus nurse.
- Administered medications and managed diabetic care, first aid, and emergency responses.
- Educated teachers and staff on medical conditions, policies, and procedures.
- Assisted students with anxiety, depression, grief, behaviors, and suspected abuse referrals.
- Communicated with parents and guardians regarding student health matters.
- Maintained organized medical records and action plans for compliance.
- Ensured vaccine and physical compliance through diligent record-keeping.
Private Duty Nurse
Advantage Nursing Services
Mattoon, USA
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Facilitated engaging playtime and family interactions, enhancing the child's well-being and fostering a supportive home environment.
- Provided comprehensive care for a child with complex medical needs, including tracheotomy and g-tube management, medication administration, and respiratory support.
- Delivered essential daily care, such as bathing, grooming, and dressing.
Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Coach
Mattoon YMCA
Mattoon, USA
01.2018 - 01.2020
- Facilitated discussions among group members to enhance collaboration.
- Conducted lessons utilizing props and relevant topics for engagement.
- Monitored weekly accountability for each member to ensure progress.
- Executed community outreach initiatives to strengthen local connections.
Mercy Physicians Triage Nurse
Mercy Hospital
St. Louis, USA
01.2014 - 01.2017
- Collaborated with two registered nurses to manage all patient communications, including test results and refill requests.
- Developed a comprehensive training manual addressing frequently asked patient questions and provider treatment preferences.
- Facilitated patient education initiatives to enhance understanding of medical conditions.
- Provided assistance to providers with various tasks as needed, ensuring seamless operations.
Labor & Delivery Nurse
Mercy Hospital
St. Louis, USA
01.2008 - 01.2014
- Performed OB triage in urgent care settings for pregnant women.
- Monitored maternal and fetal well-being via electronic fetal monitoring and vital signs.
- Administered medications and IV fluids to support patient needs.
- Conducted assessments and exams, employing professional judgment for optimal care.
- Managed care for low-risk and high-risk pregnancies throughout labor and delivery.
- Collaborated with colleagues and providers to ensure comprehensive patient care.
- Provided education to patients regarding labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery.
- Responded to emergencies involving stillbirths, miscarriages, and newborn CPR.
Education
Master of Science - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, IN12-2025
Bachelors of Science - Nursing
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE)
Edwardsville, IL05-2008
High School Diploma -
Pawnee High School
Pawnee, IL05-2004
Skills
- Mental health assessment
- Crisis intervention
- Patient education
- Electronic medical records
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Regulatory compliance
- Effective communication
- Behavioral evaluations
- Pediatric nursing expertise
- Problem-solving skills
- Privacy and confidentiality
Community Contribution
reminding others how to appreciate the wonders of life, bringing enjoyment to all, and adding warmth, excitement, and fun to endeavors, fostering relationships.
Volunteer Experience
- Kids Ministry for several years
- Worship Team
- Other volunteer roles
References
Can be provided as needed
Hobbies and Interests
- Fostering relationships and community
- Growing involvement in church, The Fields
- YMCA
- Neighborhood
- Mattoon Schools
- Eating at new, fun restaurants
- Seeing new cities & places
- Travelling on adventures with family
Family
Jay, 11/01/08, Director of Operations for a group Dental Practice
Background
I grew up in a town just south of Springfield, IL called Pawnee. From there I went on to SIUE for college, and from there into St. Louis for a few years as I began my nursing career with a great experience at Mercy Hospital.
Accomplishments
- Started the Healthy Families program at Riddle Elementary with a team of 3 others. This initiative sought to provide support and resources to our most high risk families by providing basic needs, support and education.
- Member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing since 2/2024
- Recipient of two SBL Guild Scholarships
Timeline
School Nurse
Riddle Elementary School
01.2020 - 05.2024
Private Duty Nurse
Advantage Nursing Services
01.2019 - 01.2020
Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Coach
Mattoon YMCA
01.2018 - 01.2020
Mercy Physicians Triage Nurse
Mercy Hospital
01.2014 - 01.2017
Labor & Delivery Nurse
Mercy Hospital
01.2008 - 01.2014
Master of Science - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Indiana Wesleyan University
Bachelors of Science - Nursing
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE)
High School Diploma -
Pawnee High School
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