- Offering time and support to shelters for the homeless, women, and animals
- Animal Welfare Advocacy
- Volunteer Work
- Homelessness Outreach
- Fundraising Events
MONICA ALEXANDER
RN
Edmond,OK
Summary
Dynamic Registered Nurse with 28 years of clinical expertise in emergency care, mental health, perioperative services, and high-acuity surgical environments, including open-heart and level-one trauma. Demonstrates strong clinical judgment and adaptability while leading teams in inpatient and outpatient settings. Proficient in triage, crisis assessment, patient education, and referral auditing, with extensive experience using EMR systems such as Meditech, Cerner, and Epic. Committed to managing complex medical conditions and fostering patient recovery through critical thinking and effective communication.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
5
5
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Circulating OR Nurse
Integris Internal Contractor
Edmond/OKC, OK
09.2023 - 01.2024
- Supported multiple surgical specialties as OR circulator
- Adapted quickly to varying workflows and facility protocols
- Collaborated with surgical team to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes during procedures.
- Prepared and organized surgical instruments, ensuring availability for each operation.
- Assisted in the development of standard operating procedures to enhance workflow efficiency.
- Implemented infection control measures, significantly reducing post-operative complications.
- Coordinated communication between surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nursing staff to streamline operations.
- Anticipated potential needs in the operating room environment by maintaining an organized workspace and replenishing supplies as needed for efficient workflow.
- Preserved patient dignity and privacy throughout the surgical experience by advocating for their rights as part of a holistic approach to nursing care.
- Ensured proper positioning of patients during surgeries, minimizing risk of injury or discomfort.
- Promoted teamwork among OR staff by fostering a positive work environment based on mutual respect and shared goals.
- Assessed patients'' physical and emotional needs preoperatively, providing education and support to alleviate anxiety.
- Consistently met strict regulatory requirements for safe medication administration during surgeries while adhering to facility policies regarding controlled substances management.
- Enhanced patient safety by strictly adhering to aseptic techniques and infection control protocols during surgeries.
- Reduced surgery delays by efficiently preparing the operating room with necessary equipment, instruments, and supplies.
- Safeguarded patients from harm by accurately identifying and verifying surgical sites, protecting against wrong-site surgeries.
- Conducted thorough assessments of operative sites both pre-and post-procedure, reporting any abnormal findings promptly to minimize potential complications.
- Maintained detailed documentation of surgical procedures and interventions for accurate medical records and billing purposes.
- Collected, labeled, and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
Circulating OR Nurse (Contractor)
Cross Country Medical Staffing
Oklahoma City, OK
07.2019 - 01.2024
- Delivered perioperative care across diverse hospital settings
- Supported both routine and complex surgical cases
- Assisted physicians in operating room by providing necessary supplies and equipment.
- Provided effective bedside care to patients before and after procedures to deliver comfort.
- Collected, labeled, and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
- Led pre-operative assessments, ensuring comprehensive patient evaluations before surgeries.
- Enhanced patient safety by strictly adhering to aseptic techniques and infection control protocols during surgeries.
- Sanitized, selected and organizing instruments, equipment and supplies according to surgeon preferences.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
- Improved surgical outcomes by providing comprehensive perioperative nursing care to patients and their families.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- Collaborated with surgical team to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes during procedures.
- Utilized sterile techniques and infection-control guidelines to maintain clean and safe environment.
- Reduced surgery delays by efficiently preparing the operating room with necessary equipment, instruments, and supplies.
- Ensured proper positioning of patients during surgeries, minimizing risk of injury or discomfort.
- Preserved patient dignity and privacy throughout the surgical experience by advocating for their rights as part of a holistic approach to nursing care.
Circulating OR Nurse
Norman Regional Medical Center
Norman, OK
09.2023 - 01.2024
- Circulated surgical procedures in a fast-paced OR environment
- Assisted with patient positioning, safety checks, and documentation
- Improved surgical outcomes by providing comprehensive perioperative nursing care to patients and their families.
- Collaborated with members of patients' healthcare team to deliver appropriate level of care.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- Conducted thorough assessments of operative sites both pre-and post-procedure, reporting any abnormal findings promptly to minimize potential complications.
- Collected, labeled, and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
- Collaborated closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and other healthcare professionals to deliver optimal patient care in the operating room.
- Performed pre-operative assessments to prepare patients for surgery.
- Promoted teamwork among OR staff by fostering a positive work environment based on mutual respect and shared goals.
- Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety, and rights of patient.
- Maintained detailed documentation of surgical procedures and interventions for accurate medical records and billing purposes.
- Reduced surgery delays by efficiently preparing the operating room with necessary equipment, instruments, and supplies.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
Circulating OR Nurse
Surgical Hospital of Oklahoma
Oklahoma City, OK
04.2022 - 12.2023
- Managed OR circulation for orthopedic, general, and specialty surgeries
- Ensured efficient case turnover and adherence to safety standards
- Enhanced patient safety by strictly adhering to aseptic techniques and infection control protocols during surgeries.
- Improved surgical outcomes by providing comprehensive perioperative nursing care to patients and their families.
- Assisted physicians in operating room by providing necessary supplies and equipment.
- Collaborated with members of patients' healthcare team to deliver appropriate level of care.
- Collaborated closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and other healthcare professionals to deliver optimal patient care in the operating room.
- Preserved patient dignity and privacy throughout the surgical experience by advocating for their rights as part of a holistic approach to nursing care.
- Anticipated potential needs in the operating room environment by maintaining an organized workspace and replenishing supplies as needed for efficient workflow.
- Maintained detailed documentation of surgical procedures and interventions for accurate medical records and billing purposes.
- Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
- Utilized sterile techniques and infection-control guidelines to maintain clean and safe environment.
- Provided effective bedside care to patients before and after procedures to deliver comfort.
- Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety, and rights of patient.
- Promoted patient and family comfort during challenging recoveries to enhance healing and eliminate non-compliance problems.
Circulating OR Nurse
Community Hospital North
Oklahoma City, OK
01.2020 - 04.2026
- Circulated multi-specialty surgical procedures
- Ensured compliance with perioperative safety protocols
- Enhanced patient safety by strictly adhering to aseptic techniques and infection control protocols during surgeries.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Anticipated potential needs in the operating room environment by maintaining an organized workspace and replenishing supplies as needed for efficient workflow.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- Assisted physicians in operating room by providing necessary supplies and equipment.
RN III – Mental Health Emergency Intake / Hospital Referral Auditor
Oklahoma County Crisis Intervention Center (OCCIC)
Oklahoma City, OK
01.2025 - 01.2026
- Perform emergency psychiatric evaluations for patients in acute crisis
- Triage referrals and determine appropriate level of care
- Audit hospital referrals for accuracy, eligibility, and compliance
- Coordinate patient placement with hospitals, law enforcement, and community agencies
- Maintain precise documentation in accordance with legal and regulatory standards
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop personalized treatment plans for clients.
- Administered medications and monitored patient responses to ensure optimal care outcomes.
- Led mental health crisis intervention sessions, employing de-escalation techniques effectively.
- Utilized critical thinking skills to prioritize nursing interventions based on patients'' acuity levels and individual needs.
- Conducted thorough patient assessments to identify changes in condition, promptly notifying physicians and initiating appropriate interventions when necessary.
- Enhanced patient satisfaction by providing compassionate, holistic nursing care that addressed physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
- Assisted in the training and mentorship of new nursing staff members, contributing to a positive work environment and high-quality patient care.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans for complex patients with multiple comorbidities.
- Skillfully managed challenging patient situations using de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention strategies, and therapeutic communication skills.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based nursing interventions and individualized care plans.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in nursing care and emerging trends in healthcare delivery.
- Implemented evidence-based fall prevention strategies, resulting in a significant decrease in patient falls within the unit.
RN
Oakwood Springs Behavioral Health
Oklahoma City, OK
01.2025 - 01.2026
- Lead and coordinate unit operations, staffing, and patient flow
- Conduct psychiatric assessments and manage crisis interventions
- Administer medications and monitor patient responses
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on treatment planning
- Support nursing staff with clinical decision-making and conflict resolution
- Administered medications and monitored patient responses to treatment plans.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop individualized care strategies.
- Conducted comprehensive assessments to identify patient needs and progress.
- Implemented crisis intervention techniques to ensure patient safety and stability.
- Advocated for patient rights and facilitated access to necessary resources and services.
- Utilized critical thinking skills to prioritize nursing interventions based on patients'' acuity levels and individual needs.
- Conducted thorough patient assessments to identify changes in condition, promptly notifying physicians and initiating appropriate interventions when necessary.
- Assisted in the training and mentorship of new nursing staff members, contributing to a positive work environment and high-quality patient care.
- Skillfully managed challenging patient situations using de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention strategies, and therapeutic communication skills.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based nursing interventions and individualized care plans.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in nursing care and emerging trends in healthcare delivery.
- Contributed to interdisciplinary team meetings by presenting relevant clinical data about patients'' progress toward reaching established goals of care.
- Facilitated patient transitions between different levels of care, ensuring continuity of services and minimizing disruptions in treatment plans.
- Delivered high level of quality care to diverse populations while overseeing patient admission and triaging based on acuity and appropriate department admission.
Circulating OR Nurse (Contract x 2)
OCOM South
Oklahoma City, OK
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Supported outpatient orthopedic procedures as circulator
- Coordinated pre-op and intra-op patient care to maintain smooth surgical flow
- Collaborated with surgical teams to ensure optimal patient care during procedures.
- Monitored patients' vital signs and assisted in maintaining sterile environments.
- Implemented infection control protocols to enhance patient safety measures.
- Coordinated with anesthesiology to manage patient anesthesia requirements effectively.
- Anticipated potential needs in the operating room environment by maintaining an organized workspace and replenishing supplies as needed for efficient workflow.
- Preserved patient dignity and privacy throughout the surgical experience by advocating for their rights as part of a holistic approach to nursing care.
- Managed the care of surgical instruments throughout procedures, ensuring proper handling, cleaning, and sterilization to uphold patient safety standards.
- Enhanced patient safety by strictly adhering to aseptic techniques and infection control protocols during surgeries.
- Promoted teamwork among OR staff by fostering a positive work environment based on mutual respect and shared goals.
- Expedited patient recovery by promptly addressing postoperative complications or concerns through timely intervention and collaboration with other healthcare providers.
- Ensured proper positioning of patients during surgeries, minimizing risk of injury or discomfort.
- Reduced surgery delays by efficiently preparing the operating room with necessary equipment, instruments, and supplies.
- Maintained detailed documentation of surgical procedures and interventions for accurate medical records and billing purposes.
- Assessed patients'' physical and emotional needs preoperatively, providing education and support to alleviate anxiety.
- Performed pre-operative assessments to prepare patients for surgery.
RN Scrub/Circulator
VA Medical Center
Oklahoma City, OK
01.2017 - 01.2019
- Functioned as both scrub and circulator for a wide range of surgical cases
- Provided care to veteran populations with complex medical needs
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement comprehensive care plans.
- Implemented infection control protocols, significantly reducing hospital-acquired infections.
- Mentored junior nurses on best practices in patient care and clinical procedures.
- Utilized electronic health records systems for accurate documentation and seamless information sharing.
- Utilized critical thinking skills to prioritize nursing interventions based on patients'' acuity levels and individual needs.
- Assisted in the training and mentorship of new nursing staff members, contributing to a positive work environment and high-quality patient care.
- Prevented the spread of infections by consistently adhering to strict infection control protocols and educating patients on proper hygiene practices.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans for complex patients with multiple comorbidities.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based nursing interventions and individualized care plans.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in nursing care and emerging trends in healthcare delivery.
- Promoted a culture of safety within the healthcare facility by participating in quality improvement initiatives, identifying potential hazards, and advocating for best practices in nursing care delivery.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
RN Circulator
OU Medical Center (Level 1 Trauma Center)
Oklahoma City, OK
01.2016 - 01.2017
- Circulated high-acuity trauma and emergency surgeries
- Supported rapid-response surgical teams in critical situations
- Preserved patient dignity and privacy throughout the surgical experience by advocating for their rights as part of a holistic approach to nursing care.
- Performed frequent checks on life support equipment and made necessary adjustments to preserve optimal patient conditions.
- Actively participated in continuing education opportunities to stay current on best practices in perioperative nursing care.
- Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
- Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviors and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.
- Utilized sterile techniques and infection-control guidelines to maintain clean and safe environment.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
- Anticipated potential needs in the operating room environment by maintaining an organized workspace and replenishing supplies as needed for efficient workflow.
- Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically-ill patients.
- Ensured proper positioning of patients during surgeries, minimizing risk of injury or discomfort.
- Reduced surgery delays by efficiently preparing the operating room with necessary equipment, instruments, and supplies.
- Collaborated closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and other healthcare professionals to deliver optimal patient care in the operating room.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Expedited patient recovery by promptly addressing postoperative complications or concerns through timely intervention and collaboration with other healthcare providers.
- Prepped operating rooms to comply with environmental asepsis standards.
- Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
- Safeguarded patients from harm by accurately identifying and verifying surgical sites, protecting against wrong-site surgeries.
- Collaborated with surgical team to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes during procedures.
Circulating OR Nurse
Bone and Joint Hospital
Oklahoma City, OK
01.2015 - 01.2016
- Circulated orthopedic surgical procedures in a high-volume environment
- Ensured sterile technique and proper instrumentation setup
- Collaborated with surgeons and anesthesia teams to optimize outcomes
- Provided direct support to surgical team during procedures.
- Anticipated potential needs in the operating room environment by maintaining an organized workspace and replenishing supplies as needed for efficient workflow.
- Ensured proper positioning of patients during surgeries, minimizing risk of injury or discomfort.
- Collaborated closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and other healthcare professionals to deliver optimal patient care in the operating room.
- Improved surgical outcomes by providing comprehensive perioperative nursing care to patients and their families.
- Collected, labeled, and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
- Promoted teamwork among OR staff by fostering a positive work environment based on mutual respect and shared goals.
- Managed the care of surgical instruments throughout procedures, ensuring proper handling, cleaning, and sterilization to uphold patient safety standards.
- Utilized sterile techniques and infection-control guidelines to maintain clean and safe environment.
- Coordinated with surgeons and staff to deliver safe patient care during operations.
- Maintained detailed documentation of surgical procedures and interventions for accurate medical records and billing purposes.
Circulating OR Nurse/CVOR Registered Nurse
Mercy Hospital
Oklahoma City, OK
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Circulated general, orthopedic, and specialty surgical procedures CVOR
- Maintained sterile field integrity and coordinated intraoperative care
- Improved surgical outcomes by providing comprehensive perioperative nursing care to patients and their families.
- Promoted teamwork among OR staff by fostering a positive work environment based on mutual respect and shared goals.
- Actively participated in continuing education opportunities to stay current on best practices in perioperative nursing care.
- Collaborated with surgical team to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes during procedures.
- Provided effective bedside care to patients before and after procedures to deliver comfort.
- Performed pre-operative assessments to prepare patients for surgery.
- Safeguarded patients from harm by accurately identifying and verifying surgical sites, protecting against wrong-site surgeries.
- Provided instruction to patients and family members before and after surgical procedures.
- Coordinated communication between surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nursing staff to streamline operations.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
- Collaborated closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and other healthcare professionals to deliver optimal patient care in the operating room.
- Prepped operating rooms to comply with environmental asepsis standards.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Enhanced patient safety by strictly adhering to aseptic techniques and infection control protocols during surgeries.
- Maintained detailed documentation of surgical procedures and interventions for accurate medical records and billing purposes.
Circulating OR Nurse
Oklahoma Surgicare
Oklahoma City, OK
01.2013 - 01.2014
- Provided perioperative care in an outpatient surgical setting
- Ensured efficient case flow and patient safety
- Led teams in driving successful patient outcomes by prioritizing standard of care and best practices.
- Monitored vital signs and administered medications as per established protocols.
- Reduced surgery delays by efficiently preparing the operating room with necessary equipment, instruments, and supplies.
- Provided direct support to surgical team during procedures.
- Preserved patient dignity and privacy throughout the surgical experience by advocating for their rights as part of a holistic approach to nursing care.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
- Provided instruction to patients and family members before and after surgical procedures.
- Promoted teamwork among OR staff by fostering a positive work environment based on mutual respect and shared goals.
- Maintained detailed documentation of surgical procedures and interventions for accurate medical records and billing purposes.
- Assessed patients'' physical and emotional needs preoperatively, providing education and support to alleviate anxiety.
- Anticipated potential needs in the operating room environment by maintaining an organized workspace and replenishing supplies as needed for efficient workflow.
- Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
- Collected, labeled, and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
Circulating OR Nurse
Deaconess Hospital
Oklahoma City, OK
01.2011 - 01.2013
- Circulated cardiovascular and thoracic surgeries, including open-heart procedures
- Managed specialized equipment and collaborated with cardiac surgical teams
- Anticipated potential needs in the operating room environment by maintaining an organized workspace and replenishing supplies as needed for efficient workflow.
- Collected, labeled, and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
- Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviors and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.
- Coordinated communication between surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nursing staff to streamline operations.
- Collaborated with surgical team to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes during procedures.
- Provided instruction to patients and family members before and after surgical procedures.
- Implemented infection control measures, significantly reducing post-operative complications.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
- Actively participated in continuing education opportunities to stay current on best practices in perioperative nursing care.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically-ill patients.
- Conducted thorough assessments of operative sites both pre-and post-procedure, reporting any abnormal findings promptly to minimize potential complications.
- Improved surgical outcomes by providing comprehensive perioperative nursing care to patients and their families.
- Promoted teamwork among OR staff by fostering a positive work environment based on mutual respect and shared goals.
- Coordinated with surgeons and staff to deliver safe patient care during operations.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Maintained detailed documentation of surgical procedures and interventions for accurate medical records and billing purposes.
- Prepped operating rooms to comply with environmental asepsis standards.
- Enhanced patient safety by strictly adhering to aseptic techniques and infection control protocols during surgeries.
Education
Registered Nurse - Nursing
North Central Texas College
Gainesville, Texas, TXNo Degree - Biology
University of North Texas
Denton, TX 08.1992 - 05.1994
No Degree - Political Science
University of Mississippi
University, MS 08.1989 - 05.1991
No Degree - General Studies
Northwest Mississippi Community College
Senatobia, MS 08.1990 - 05.1991
No Degree - Biology
South Plains College
Levelland, TX 08.1991 - 05.1992
Skills
- Triage assessment skills
- Assessment of mental health crises
- Mental health nursing
- Perioperative nursing expertise
- Level I trauma proficiency
- Cardiac surgical procedures
- Patient advocacy
- Medical referral assessment
- Chart auditing
- Electronic medical record systems: Meditech, Cerner, Epic
- Regulatory compliance proficiency
Affiliations
- American Nurses Association (ANA) Member
Certification
- ACLS
- BLS
- Emergency Nursing Internship – Medical City Dallas (2000)
Interests
Timeline
RN III – Mental Health Emergency Intake / Hospital Referral Auditor
Oklahoma County Crisis Intervention Center (OCCIC)
01.2025 - 01.2026
RN
Oakwood Springs Behavioral Health
01.2025 - 01.2026
Circulating OR Nurse
Integris Internal Contractor
09.2023 - 01.2024
Circulating OR Nurse
Norman Regional Medical Center
09.2023 - 01.2024
Circulating OR Nurse
Surgical Hospital of Oklahoma
04.2022 - 12.2023
Circulating OR Nurse
Community Hospital North
01.2020 - 04.2026
Circulating OR Nurse (Contractor)
Cross Country Medical Staffing
07.2019 - 01.2024
Circulating OR Nurse (Contract x 2)
OCOM South
01.2019 - 01.2020
RN Scrub/Circulator
VA Medical Center
01.2017 - 01.2019
RN Circulator
OU Medical Center (Level 1 Trauma Center)
01.2016 - 01.2017
Circulating OR Nurse
Bone and Joint Hospital
01.2015 - 01.2016
Circulating OR Nurse/CVOR Registered Nurse
Mercy Hospital
01.2014 - 01.2015
Circulating OR Nurse
Oklahoma Surgicare
01.2013 - 01.2014
Circulating OR Nurse
Deaconess Hospital
01.2011 - 01.2013
No Degree - Biology
University of North Texas
08.1992 - 05.1994
No Degree - Biology
South Plains College
08.1991 - 05.1992
No Degree - General Studies
Northwest Mississippi Community College
08.1990 - 05.1991
No Degree - Political Science
University of Mississippi
08.1989 - 05.1991
Registered Nurse - Nursing
North Central Texas College