Michele Leach

Circulated and scrubbed a variety of upper extremity orthopedic procedures. Provided direct patient care in a fast-paced outpatient surgery setting. Developed effective relationships with surgeons and anesthesiologists to ensure quality outcomes.

Traveled as an operating room RN circulator in several different locations:

• Ascension Health, Carmel, IN
• Duke University, Durham, NC
• Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO
• St. Anthony Hospital, St. Petersburg, FL
• Ortho Tennessee-UT, Knoxville, TN

Circulated in a variety of procedures: ortho trauma, open heart, orthopedic, robotics, plastic surgery, general surgery, ortho spine.

Coordinated, tasked and supervised nurses and ancillary staff based on staffing requirements. Delegated tasks appropriately among staff members according to their qualifications. Oversaw the daily operations of the operating room, ensuring patient safety and satisfaction. Coordinated with other departments in order to ensure smooth workflow throughout the hospital system. Resolved conflicts among staff members in a timely manner while maintaining professionalism. Managed department work and call schedules. Coordinated daily staff assignments ensuring optimal patient care.

Maintained sterile environment in operating room Ensured optimal comfort of patients by providing support during open heart and vascular surgeries. Documented all charges accurately into the electronic health record system. Maintained thorough, accurate and confidential documentation in electronic medical records. Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.

Assisted in the preparation of the operating room, equipment, and supplies for surgical procedures. Developed effective relationships with the orthopedic surgeons to ensure the best possible patient outcomes. Trained other nurses on patient care and daily tasks, supporting growth and professional development. Coordinated with outside vendors to ensure all surgeon requested implants, instruments, and equipment were available.

Provided guidance and support to nursing staff members. Developed policies, procedures, and protocols in accordance with applicable regulations and standards. Implemented strategies for improving quality of care, patient safety, and satisfaction levels. Conducted regular meetings with the nursing team to discuss new initiatives or changes in practice guidelines. Monitored staffing patterns to ensure adequate coverage at all times. Participated actively in recruitment and selection processes for new hires. Reviewed incident reports related to clinical operations and implemented corrective action plans when necessary. Collaborated closely with department heads from other disciplines such as laboratory or radiology to ensure efficient workflow throughout the organization. Established and maintained positive relationships with residents, physicians, hospital staff, patients and families. Provided strong leadership and guidance to nurses. Handled probationary and annual performance evaluations for nursing staff.

Maintained a sterile environment during surgery through use of proper techniques and knowledge of aseptic technique. Initiated emergency measures in response to life threatening situations or complications occurring during surgery. Utilized evidence based practice guidelines for best outcomes related to OR nursing interventions. Served as a preceptor for new nurses by providing orientation to unit policies and procedures, coaching on clinical skills, and mentoring on professional development issues. Delegated tasks appropriately among staff members according to their qualifications. Coordinated, tasked and supervised nurses and ancillary staff based on staffing requirements.