Lorna Higgs-Smith
Sicklerville
Summary
Compassionate and dedicated Registered Nurse with over 15 years of nursing experience providing direct patient care in skilled nursing, rehabilitation, behavioral health, and long-term care settings. Skilled in medication administration, patient assessments, care planning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient education. Proven ability to manage high patient volumes while delivering safe, high-quality care. Strong clinical judgment, leadership abilities, and commitment to improving patient outcomes. Licensed Registered Nurse in the State of New Jersey with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
Work History
Registered Nurse / Staff Nurse
HCR ManorCare / ProMedica Skilled/Atlas Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
Washington Twp., NJ
03.2011 - Current
- Deliver comprehensive nursing care to patients with acute and chronic medical conditions in a skilled nursing and rehabilitation setting.
- Perform patient assessments, monitor changes in condition, and communicate findings to physicians and interdisciplinary teams.
- Administer medications, IV therapies, and treatments safely and accurately in accordance with physician orders and facility protocols.
- Develop, implement, and revise individualized care plans to support optimal patient outcomes and recovery.
- Supervise and delegate responsibilities to nursing assistants and support staff to ensure efficient patient care delivery.
- Educate patients and families regarding diagnoses, medications, treatments, and discharge planning.
- Maintain accurate and timely electronic medical documentation while ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
Charge Registered Nurse
Hampton Hospital
Westhampton, NJ
11.2009 - 11.2011
- Provided direct nursing care and leadership within a behavioral and mental health hospital setting.
- Supervised admissions, discharges, and daily nursing operations to ensure safe and effective patient care.
- Administered medications and monitored patient responses to treatments and interventions.
- Collaborated with physicians and multidisciplinary teams to support patient recovery and treatment goals.
- Educated patients and families on treatment plans, medications, and discharge instructions.
- Assisted with staffing coordination and shift scheduling to maintain unit efficiency and patient safety.
Registered Nurse / Staff Nurse
Stratford Nursing and Convalescent Center
Stratford, NJ
11.2010 - 03.2011
- Managed daily nursing operations for assigned patient units in a long-term care and rehabilitation environment.
- Conducted patient admissions, assessments, and ongoing evaluations to support continuity of care.
- Coordinated interdisciplinary care to ensure quality patient outcomes and compliance with healthcare standards.
- Developed and implemented patient-centered care plans based on clinical assessments and physician directives.
- Maintained detailed patient records, prepared reports, and communicated patient status updates to providers and family members.
Health Associate
Bancroft NeuroHealth
Haddonfield, NJ
06.2000 - 12.2007
- Provided direct support and care for patients with neurological and developmental disabilities.
- Assisted with daily living activities while promoting patient safety, dignity, and independence.
- Supported implementation of individualized care plans and behavioral interventions.
- Maintained accurate documentation and communicated patient concerns to nursing and clinical staff.
- Served as a patient advocate and positive role model to support emotional and social development.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Nursing
Holy Family University
Philadelphia, PA05.2009
Skills
Patient Assessment & Monitoring
Medication Administration
IV Therapy & Treatments
Wound Care
Care Planning & Coordination
Admissions & Discharges
Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
Patient & Family Education
Infection Control & Safety Compliance
Interdisciplinary Team Collaboration
Delegation & Staff Supervision
Timeline
Registered Nurse / Staff Nurse
HCR ManorCare / ProMedica Skilled/Atlas Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
03.2011 - Current
Registered Nurse / Staff Nurse
Stratford Nursing and Convalescent Center
11.2010 - 03.2011
Charge Registered Nurse
Hampton Hospital
11.2009 - 11.2011
Health Associate
Bancroft NeuroHealth
06.2000 - 12.2007
Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Nursing
Holy Family University