Maria Gacitua
Summary
Compassionate and experienced Registered Nurse with over 15 years of clinical expertise in general surgery, oncology-related, and post-anesthesia care. Skilled in managing complex post-operative recoveries, including administration of oral chemotherapy drugs. Dedicated to delivering patient-centered, evidence-based care aligned with MD Anderson's mission to eliminate cancer and improve lives.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
PACU Staff Nurse
Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital – First Colony
11.2021 - Current
- Deliver post-anesthesia care for a wide variety of outpatient procedures, including orthopedic surgeries, sinus surgeries, EGDs, colonoscopies, and pain injections.
- Closely monitor patient vitals and recovery, administer pain management and IV therapies.
- Ensure smooth transitions to discharge with thorough patient and family education.
- Coordinate with anesthesia and surgical teams to maintain safety and comfort.
Surgical Unit Staff Nurse
Memorial Hermann Memorial City
08.2012 - 08.2022
- Delivered direct care to post-op patients from a wide range of surgical specialties in a general surgery unit, including:
- Oncology surgeries: colon resections, mastectomies, DIEP flaps, ovarian cancer surgeries
- Urology: TURP procedures
- Bariatric procedures: gastric sleeve and bypass surgeries
- GI surgeries: appendectomies, cholecystectomies and hernia repairs.
- Administered oral chemotherapy and managed patient monitoring and education.
- Performed complex wound care, including Wound Vac use.
- Documented care via Care4 and supported a safe, efficient environment for recovery.
- Mentored new staff and served as a trusted resource for interdisciplinary collaboration.
Home Health Nurse / Assistant to Nursing Director
Gaspy Home Healthcare
01.2009 - 08.2012
- Promoted to assist Director of Nursing with care planning and quality assurance.
- Delivered in-home care including wound care, medication management, and patient education.
- Reviewed documentation for accuracy and compliance, and coordinated new patient intake.
Physical Therapy Technician
Masep Rehabilitation and Pain Center
08.2002 - 09.2008
- Supported rehabilitation exercises and tracked progress for post-surgical and chronic pain patients.
- Assisted therapists in implementing care plans and maintaining patient safety.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of Texas at Arlington
Arlington, TX12.2017
Associate Degree - Nursing
Houston Community College – Coleman Campus
Houston, TX06.2011
Licensed Vocational Nurse Certification - undefined
Houston Community College – Coleman Campus
Houston, TX08.2008
Associate of Arts - undefined
Houston Community College – Central Campus
Houston, TX08.2006
Skills
- Bilingual: Fluent in Spanish and English
- Proficient in complex post-surgical care including oncology-related surgeries
- Wound care expert, trained in Wound Vac therapy
- Strong assessment and critical thinking skills
- Proficient in IV therapy, catheterization, and drain management
- Dedicated patient and family educator
- Collaborative team member in multidisciplinary settings
Certification
- Registered Nurse – Texas Board of Nursing (Active since June 2011)
- Licensed Vocational Nurse, ACLS, PALS, CPR Certification.
Languages
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
PACU Staff Nurse
Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital – First Colony
11.2021 - Current
Surgical Unit Staff Nurse
Memorial Hermann Memorial City
08.2012 - 08.2022
Home Health Nurse / Assistant to Nursing Director
Gaspy Home Healthcare
01.2009 - 08.2012
Physical Therapy Technician
Masep Rehabilitation and Pain Center
08.2002 - 09.2008
Associate Degree - Nursing
Houston Community College – Coleman Campus
Licensed Vocational Nurse Certification - undefined
Houston Community College – Coleman Campus
Associate of Arts - undefined
Houston Community College – Central Campus
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of Texas at Arlington