Lynn Woods MSN, MHA
Shavertown,PA
Summary
Highly motivated, knowledgeable, detail-oriented Master's prepared Registered Nurse with more than 10 years' experience that is committed to utilizing a strong clinical background and expertise outside the scope of bedside nursing. With strong critical thinking abilities, excellent time management skills, as well as the understanding of documentation standards in the medical field, passionately dedicated to advancement in performance improvement efforts. Resourceful Admissions Nurse with extensive patient care background and proven administrative expertise. Managed patient admissions for 96-bed medical facility. Superb organizational and collaborative skills leading to desirable 5.0 satisfaction ratings.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Admissions Registered Nurse
Geisinger - Acadia Healthcare
06.2023 - Current
- Sole night shift admissions nurse for 96 bed inpatient psychiatric hospital that is dedicated to providing high-quality care for adults and adolescents who are suffering from behavioral health and chemical dependency issues.
- Facilitated and managed all aspects of nursing admission process including assessment of patients upon admission for appropriateness of admission, coverage, and acuity of care determination.
- Communicated with internal staff regarding coverage and contract details; proactively working with multidisciplinary team to manage care, costs and discharge planning.
- Maintained thorough knowledge of insurance requirements, including insurance verification and obtaining pre-certifications.
- Utilization and expert knowledge in "Salesforce" for all intakes, inquiries, communications, cross-referrals and pre-admissions processing.
- Utilization and expert knowledge in "Concord" to receive, review and document all faxed referrals from various providers.
- Utilization and expert knowledge in "Medhost" to input and edit all patient related information.
- Utilization and expert knowledge in "EPIC" EMR for chart reviews, assessments, Physician orders.
- Screening of referrals for adequate information for medical necessity and appropriateness of service and care.
- Utilizes appropriate resources to guide review decisions and document decisions clearly and concisely.
- Refers appropriate prior authorization requests to Medical Directors.
- Reviews referral denials for appropriate guidelines and language.
- Identifies appropriate benefits and eligibility for requested treatments.
- Strong knowledge of Medicare and Medicaid coverage benefit, CMS guidelines and regulations, as well as commercial and state Medicaid coverages.
- Strong knowledge of ICD 10 and ICD 9 coding.
- Communication with internal professionals via "Tiger Text".
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Expedited accurate clinical documentation completion by promptly responding to queries from healthcare providers and support staff, offering timely guidance and support.
- Analyzed data from audits to identify areas for improvement in clinical documentation processes, implementing targeted interventions for positive change.
- Verified medical terminology and codes to deliver accurate and up-to-date information.
Addictions Registered Nurse
Acadia Healthcare
02.2023 - 06.2023
- Assist referral sources and identify opportunities for outreach team.
- Managed approximately 30 incoming calls, emails and faxes per shift from customers.
- Obtain clinical, demographic, and insurance information.
- Provided individualized evaluation and assessments, education, and medication-assisted recovery to alcohol and opioid-dependent adult and adolescents in safe, medically sound, and therapeutic environment.
- Complete intake assessments and other required intake documentation efficiently and accurately at time of admission.
- Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of detox needed.
- Provide medications management, patient medication education, and medication administration according to physician orders and in accordance with facility and regulatory agency policies.
- Follows physician orders for all detox protocols and documents appropriate "CIWA" and "COWS" in EHR.
- Educated patients, families and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process, and management and lifestyle options.
- Utilized critical thinking skills to prioritize nursing interventions based on patients'' acuity levels and individual needs.
- Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
- Implemented care plans for patient treatment after assessing physician medical regimens.
- Assists in training new residential technician staff and nurses on job duties and responsibilities, monitors job performance of staff and reports performance issues to supervisor.
Registered Nurse, Inpatient Psychiatric Unit
Clark Summit State Hospital
12.2017 - 02.2023
- Utilized critical thinking skills to identify subtle changes in patient behaviors or symptoms that may indicate need for immediate intervention or reassessment of treatment plans.
- Monitored approximately 30 patients per shift.
- Served as preceptor for new nursing staff, sharing knowledge of unit policies and procedures while supporting their transition into role.
- Collaborated with leadership to devise initiatives for improving nursing satisfaction, retention and morale.
- Performed patient assessments to monitor expected response to medications and altering treatment plans.
- Managed challenging behaviors effectively through de-escalation techniques and implementation of behavior management plans.
- Developed successful discharge plans to help continuity of care upon patient release.
- Conducted suicide risk assessments routinely to identify high-risk individuals in need of additional intervention or monitoring within facility setting.
- Addressed complex psychosocial needs of patients through collaboration with social workers, case managers, therapists, and other support staff.
- Provided direct quality care to patients by monitoring, recording and evaluating psychiatric conditions.
- Oversaw care of suicidal patients and acted swiftly to reduce risk of harm to themselves or others.
- Educated patients and families about mental health, diagnoses and treatment options.
- Investigated and resolved issues affecting hospital operations and patient care.
- Responded to numerous volatile situations and violent outbreaks to restore safety and security of patients and staff.
- Assessed need for restraint or seclusion in accordance with facility protocols, prioritizing least restrictive measures when possible to promote patient autonomy.
- Administered medication and treatments to patients to observe and record responses.
- Collaborated with physicians to develop individualized treatment plans, ensuring optimal patient care and progress towards recovery goals.
- Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviors and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.
- Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Organized and detail-oriented with strong work ethic.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Self-motivated, with strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in team environment.
- Transcribed sensitive documents with complete confidentiality.
- Maintained strong knowledge of medical terminology, diseases and conditions and procedures.
- Expedited accurate clinical documentation completion by promptly responding to queries from healthcare providers and support staff, offering timely guidance and support.
- Reduced risk exposure by promptly addressing any identified discrepancies or inconsistencies within patient records.
- Analyzed data from audits to identify areas for improvement in clinical documentation processes, implementing targeted interventions for positive change.
- Worked with professionals on scanning, coding and releasing information to departments.
Home Health Registered Nurse
Comprehensive Medical And Home Care
03.2017 - 12.2017
- Completed on average 8 home visits per day.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Advised and coached patients progressing from hospitals, rehab facilities, and other medical organizations to at-home treatment settings.
- Trained, guided, supported and supervised home health aide care providers.
- Provided emotional support and kind companionship to patients and families to increase overall wellness.
- Provided physical assessments, medication, and chronic disease management to home health patients. Ensured regulatory compliance in all aspects of home health nursing practice, maintaining current licensure and staying abreast of t latest industry standards.
- Administered different therapies and medications in line with physician orders and treatment plan.
- Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
- Delivered high level of quality care to diverse populations while overseeing patient admission and triaging based on acuity and appropriate department admission.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Coordinated with physicians, therapists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure seamless continuity of care for patients.
- Delivered after-hours care to patients based on strict role-call rotations.
- Educated patients and families on disease management, prevention strategies, and self-care techniques.
- Proficient with OASIS for documentation.
Nursing Unit Manager
Birchwood Nursing & Rehab
12.2015 - 03.2017
- Maintained compliance with regulatory requirements through continuous staff education and policy updates.
- Developed comprehensive care plans with interdisciplinary team collaboration, ensuring continuity of care for patients.
- Defined testing protocols, quality assurance initiatives and clinic policies and procedures.
- Assessed staffing needs based on census fluctuations while balancing budget constraints, maintaining appropriate nurse-to-patient ratios at all times.
- Conducted performance evaluations for nursing staff, providing constructive feedback to enhance skills and competencies.
- Streamlined nursing operations for improved efficiency and overall patient satisfaction.
- Collaborated with physicians to optimize patient treatment plans, resulting in better health outcomes.
- Conducted routine facility inspections, identifying areas needing improvement and eliminating hazards posed to staff and residents for continued compliance with associated regulations.
- Served as liaison between nursing staff, administration, and other healthcare professionals to ensure smooth communication and optimal patient outcomes.
- Evaluated and monitored care and services throughout shift to improve quality levels.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
- Self-motivated, with strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
- Proven ability to develop and implement creative solutions to complex problems.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
Assistant Director of Nursing
Golden Living Nursing Home
08.2015 - 12.2015
- Collaborated with staff, management, and external groups to coordinate patient care of approximately 175 patients.
- Performed rounds to observe care and interview staff, residents, and families.
- Developed policies and procedures for effective pharmacy management.
- Contributed to accreditation process by maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations for nursing standard.
- Worked closely administration to develop and implement best practices to improve patient outcomes.
- Coordinated with physicians on complex cases, ensuring seamless communication among healthcare professionals involved in patient care.
- Conducted routine facility inspections, identifying areas needing improvement and eliminating hazards posed to staff and residents for continued compliance with associated regulations.
- Mentored new nurses in clinical practice and procedures, fostering supportive learning environment.
- Enhanced staff performance through regular training sessions and professional development opportunities.
- Evaluated work performance of 75 nursing personnel to determine wage increases and implement discipline.
- Developed and updated policies and procedures, maintaining compliance with guidelines relating to HIPAA, benefits administration and general liability.
- Facilitated continuing education and training programs to drive staff competency and professional development.
- Optimized staffing levels to maintain appropriate nurse-to-patient ratio, promoting quality of care without exceeding budget constraints.
- Participated in management team meetings to discuss resident status, census changes, and resident complaints or concerns.
- Played key role in attaining high patient satisfaction scores by consistently delivering compassionate care and addressing concerns promptly.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations.
Registered Nurse Clinical Manager
VA Medical Center
02.2013 - 08.2015
- Regular and daily updates and management of matrix roster/802.
- Enhanced patient care by implementing evidence-based nursing practices and clinical protocols.
- Frontline management of 58 staff including RN's, LPN's, and CNA's.
- Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically ill patients.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
- Managed nursing schedules and staffing levels, ensuring optimal coverage for all shifts without compromising patient care standards.
- Mentored new nurses, providing guidance on best practices and professional development opportunities.
- Leveraged feedback and process improvement opportunities to create safer and healthier environment and increase patient satisfaction.
- Implemented quality improvement initiatives, resulting in improved patient outcomes and reduced medical errors.
- Contributed to development of organizational policies and procedures related to nursing care delivery, promoting consistent approach to patient care across all clinical service lines.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans tailored to individual patient needs.
- Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
- Participated in evidence-based practice project implementation, nursing competency development and nursing simulation activities.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations for nursing staff, providing constructive feedback and identifying areas for growth.
- Resolved problems, improved operations and provided exceptional service.
- Provided professional services and support in dynamic work environment.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Proven ability to develop and implement creative solutions to complex problems.
- Self-motivated, with strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in team environment.
Registered Nurse House Supervisor
Timber Ridge Health Care Center
01.2012 - 10.2014
- Delivered high level of quality care to diverse populations while overseeing patient admission and triaging based on acuity and appropriate department admission.
- Implemented quality improvement initiatives focused on enhancing patient outcomes while maintaining cost-effectiveness in service delivery processes.
- Contributed to overall success of organization by participating in strategic planning sessions and providing input on departmental goals.
- Administered all forms of medication administration, injections, TPN, PCA pumps, and IV therapies.
- Supervision of 180 bed facility including staff of approximately 30 RN's, LPN's, and CNA's.
- Investigated and resolved issues affecting hospital operations and patient care.
- Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injuries and illnesses.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Gained extensive knowledge in data entry, analysis and reporting.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
- Developed strong organizational and communication skills through coursework and volunteer activities.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
Registered Radiological Technologist
Mercy Hospital
01.2003 - 08.2010
- Promoted patient comfort during examinations by utilizing proper positioning techniques and adjusting equipment as needed.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing overall department performance within facility's framework.
- Communicated test results to physicians and other healthcare professionals.
- Repaired and troubleshot radiologic equipment.
- Reviewed physicians' orders to determine medical imaging needs and operated radiologic equipment to capture, develop, and produce diagnostic images.
- Performed radiographic imaging procedures according to established protocols.
- Supported radiologists with performing high-quality interventional procedures.
- Assisted radiologist in performing special imaging procedures.
- Determined appropriate imaging tests through careful medical record reviews.
- Contributed to team success by mentoring new technologists, sharing knowledge, and promoting best practices.
- Captured images using mobile equipment in operating rooms, emergency rooms, and patients' bedsides.
- Educated patients on procedure details, provided instructions, and answered questions to minimize anxiety and improve cooperation.
- Maintained safe environment for patients and staff by adhering to radiation safety guidelines and protocols.
Education
Master's in Health Care Administration -
King's College
Wilkes-barre, PA08.2012
Master of Science - Nursing
Wilkes University
Wilkes-barre, PA08.2012
Bachelor of Science - Medical Imaging
College Misericordia
Dallas, PA12.2003
Skills
- Basic Life Support CPR/AED
- Acute care, Long term care, Dementia, Hospice, Rehab, Home Health, Psychiatric, Drug & Alcohol Expertise
- EMR / EHR / EPIC
- Heart saver First Aid CPR AED (First Aid CPR AED)
- Medication and IV administration, TPN/TPA, Pain pumps
- Wound Care
- Intake and discharge
- Case Management and Managed Care
- Microsoft 365
- ICD-10 & Coding
- Clinical Documentation
- Pre-certs and Denials
Timeline
Admissions Registered Nurse
Geisinger - Acadia Healthcare
06.2023 - Current
Addictions Registered Nurse
Acadia Healthcare
02.2023 - 06.2023
Registered Nurse, Inpatient Psychiatric Unit
Clark Summit State Hospital
12.2017 - 02.2023
Home Health Registered Nurse
Comprehensive Medical And Home Care
03.2017 - 12.2017
Nursing Unit Manager
Birchwood Nursing & Rehab
12.2015 - 03.2017
Assistant Director of Nursing
Golden Living Nursing Home
08.2015 - 12.2015
Registered Nurse Clinical Manager
VA Medical Center
02.2013 - 08.2015
Registered Nurse House Supervisor
Timber Ridge Health Care Center
01.2012 - 10.2014
Registered Radiological Technologist
Mercy Hospital
01.2003 - 08.2010
Master's in Health Care Administration -
King's College
Master of Science - Nursing
Wilkes University
Bachelor of Science - Medical Imaging
College Misericordia
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