Maria Angela Difanis

Nurse Practitioner

Carle Foundation Hospital

Champaign, IL

02.2012 - Current

Utilized evidence-based practice guidelines for assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning decisions.
Provided comprehensive primary care services to patients of all ages, including physical examinations, health assessments, and immunizations.
Reviewed patient's medical history and laboratory data for abnormalities and completeness and delivered informed follow-up.
Maintained accurate documentation in electronic medical records system according to established standards.
Managed referrals to specialists when necessary and followed up with results from referrals.
Counseled patients on health risks associated with smoking, obesity, stress management and addiction.
Performed routine diagnostic tests such as laboratory work, EKGs, x-rays, ultrasounds and other imaging studies.
Collaborated with physicians in the diagnosis and management of acute and chronic illnesses.
Prescribed medications and monitored progress for effectiveness of treatments.
Ensured compliance with HIPAA regulations regarding patient confidentiality.
Educated patients about preventative healthcare measures including nutrition, exercise and lifestyle modification.
Developed individualized patient treatment plans based on identified needs and medical history.
Attended continuing education courses to stay current on best practices within the field of nursing.
Provided support to family members by offering guidance in understanding treatment options available for their loved ones.
Evaluated and treated sexually transmitted diseases.
Offered preventive services such as well-child, adult and gynecological examinations.
Instructed and counseled patients to comply with prescribed medical or physical regimens, medications, health maintenance and addiction treatment.
Served as a mentor for new graduate nurses entering into Family Nurse Practitioner roles.
Provided direct supervision to nurse practitioners-in-training during clinical rotations.
Actively participated in interdisciplinary team meetings focused on improving patient outcomes.
Facilitated communication between multidisciplinary teams in order to ensure continuity of care for patients.
Treated and monitored wounds using liquid skin, sutures and bandages.
Obtained informed consent prior to initiating any medical procedure or test.
Checked and repaired wounds with techniques such as liquid skin, sutures and bandages.
Engaged in community outreach initiatives aimed at increasing awareness about preventive healthcare services.
Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
Managed pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment of various disorders and diseases.
Performed physical exams, ordering and evaluating lab test as well as medications.
Built trust and rapport with patients by listening to concerns, advocating for wellness and educating on acute and chronic health issues.
Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
Explained treatment plan care, physician-ordered tests and medications to patients and family members or caregivers.
Promoted health by advising patients about diet, hygiene and methods for prevention of disease.
Delivered primary care for patients and handled diagnosis, treatment, referral for consultation, or specialty services, follow-up care, evening urgent care call and on-call emergency consultation.
Managed care of critically ill patients with hypertension, diabetes, renal failure, cardiac disease, closed head injuries, strokes, seizures and tumors.
Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
Collaborated with health groups to plan or implement programs designed to improve overall health of communities.
Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
Developed tailored care plans for each patient in collaboration with physicians and healthcare team.
Monitored diet, physical activity, behaviors and other patient factors to assess conditions and adjust treatment plans.
Operated in dual capacity, serving as clinician and manager of medical services.
Coordinated with healthcare team to establish, enact and evaluate patient care plans.