Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Melissa Alvarez RN, MSN, IBCLC

Meriden,CT

Summary

Dedicated nursing professional with strong background in education and training looking to secure position as Clinical Nurse Educator. Skilled in developing and implementing effective teaching strategies, fostering collaborative environment, and adapting to changing needs. Expertise in Maternal, Newborn, and Lactation care. Known for reliability, strong communication skills, and results-driven approach.

Overview

30
30
years of professional experience

Work History

Lactation Care Coordinator/Consultant

MidState Medical Center
Meriden, CT
07.2015 - Current
  • Provide substantive assistance and leadership by maintaining Baby Friendly Designation.
  • Participate in developing and revising unit polices related to lactation and newborn care.
  • Plan, organize, and instruct lactation education for staff and physicians.
  • Collaborate with health care team members to provide evidenced based care.
  • Provide inpatient and outpatient care, assistance, and skilled technical management of maternal or infant lactation related issues.
  • Monitor and analyze performance indicators and institute corrective action plans.
  • Responsible for managing and counseling mothers at weekly breastfeeding support group meetings.
  • Coordinate patient care plans, ensuring alignment with medical team objectives and patient needs.
  • Facilitate communication among healthcare providers, patients, and families to enhance care delivery.
  • Develop evidence based educational materials for patients, staff, and physicians on treatment options, improving understanding, and compliance of Baby Friendly Guidelines.

Lactation Consultant

Bridgeport Hospital
Bridgeport, CT
09.2011 - 07.2015
  • Conducted assessments to develop individualized care plans for new mothers.
  • Educated families on breastfeeding techniques and benefits.
  • Facilitated monthly breastfeeding classes for new and expectant mothers.
  • Developed and implemented comprehensive training programs on clinical resources to empower staff and optimize patient outcomes.
  • Participated in leadership meetings.
  • Coordinated care with physicians and other clinical staff to prepare for treatment, carry out interventions and enhance continuum of care to deliver comprehensive lactation services.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to enhance maternal-infant health outcomes.
  • Developed and implemented training programs for nursing staff on lactation best practices.
  • Assessed patient insights to improve lactation services and elevate overall care delivery standards.

Registered Nurse II, Newborn Intensive Care Unit

Bridgeport Hospital
Bridgeport, CT
06.1999 - 09.2011

Administered specialized medical care to premature and critically ill infants, ensuring adherence to Level III neonatal care standards.

  • Collaborated in formulating and executing comprehensive care strategies for premature and critically ill infants, addressing a range of health issues.
  • Oversaw safe, evidence-based care through meticulous monitoring and accurate medication administration.
  • Managed charge responsibilities and provided clinical guidance to staff throughout shifts.
  • Contributed to breastfeeding and documentation committees, enhancing policy development.
  • Facilitated patient and family education on treatment strategies and at-home care practices.
  • Facilitated training for new RN hires and ancillary staff to enhance patient service delivery and uphold care standards.

Registered Nurse, OB Couplet Care/Gynecology

Desert Samaritan Medical Center
Mesa, AZ
10.1998 - 02.1999

Delivered comprehensive nursing care to support recovery of postpartum newborns and gynecology surgical patients.

Registered Nurse, Maternity

Yale New Haven Hospital
New Haven, CT
08.1996 - 10.1998

Conducted thorough assessments and provided ongoing care for postpartum and newborn patients to ensure optimal health outcomes.

Registered Nurse, Orthopedics and Neurosurgical

St. Vincent's Medical Center
Bridgeport, CT
12.1996 - 03.1998
  • Executed patient care procedures and administered medications, maintaining alignment with established healthcare protocols.
  • Provided comprehensive guidance to patients and families regarding effective health management and treatment plans.

Education

Master of Science - Nursing Education

Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven, CT
12-2025

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

Quinnipiac University
Hamden, CT
05-1996

Bachelor of Science - Public Health

Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven, CT
05-1994

Skills

  • Effective communicator
  • Instructional facilitator
  • BLS certification for healthcare providers
  • NRP: Neonatal resuscitation certification
  • Certified IBCLC professional

Timeline

Lactation Care Coordinator/Consultant

MidState Medical Center
07.2015 - Current

Lactation Consultant

Bridgeport Hospital
09.2011 - 07.2015

Registered Nurse II, Newborn Intensive Care Unit

Bridgeport Hospital
06.1999 - 09.2011

Registered Nurse, OB Couplet Care/Gynecology

Desert Samaritan Medical Center
10.1998 - 02.1999

Registered Nurse, Orthopedics and Neurosurgical

St. Vincent's Medical Center
12.1996 - 03.1998

Registered Nurse, Maternity

Yale New Haven Hospital
08.1996 - 10.1998

Master of Science - Nursing Education

Southern Connecticut State University

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

Quinnipiac University

Bachelor of Science - Public Health

Southern Connecticut State University