Rachel Castagna

Monroe

Summary

Dedicated and compassionate Registered Nurse with extensive experience in pre- and post-operative care. Proven leadership as both a Charge Nurse and Preceptor, guiding team members and fostering a collaborative, high-quality care environment. Achieved Clinical Nurse II designation through demonstrated clinical excellence, professional growth, and commitment to advancing patient outcomes. Actively contributes to organizational improvement as a member of the Clinical Practice Council, supporting initiatives to enhance patient care through evidence-based practices and quality improvement strategies.

Overview

years of professional experience

Certification

Work History

Registered Nurse, Medical-Surgical Unit

St. Vincent's Medical Center

06.2020 - Current

Responsible for providing medicine, oxygen and other treatments based on assessment data
Management of chest tubes, artificial airway, including tracheal suctioning and tracheostomy tube change
Utilized EPIC to document data related to patient care such as medications, interventions and patient responses.
Responsible for enteral equipment and feeding
Preformed wound, incision and ostomy care
Educated patients and caregivers of proper wound, drain and incision management, discharge plan objectives, safe medication use, and disease management
Performed emergency medical procedures such as BLS, ACLS and other condition stabilizing interventions.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

Sacred Heart University

Fairfield, CT

12-2024

Associate of Science - Nursing

St. Vincent's College at Sacred Heart University

Bridgeport, CT

05-2020

Skills

Surgical Care Expertise: Extensive knowledge in postoperative care across various specialties, including colorectal oncology, urology, bariatric, orthopedic, plastics, vascular, and neurosurgery
Leadership & Mentorship: Experience as a charge nurse and preceptor, guiding and supporting team members in a clinical setting
Patient Care Management: Proficient in wound care, tracheostomy management, chest tubes, surgical drain maintenance, and enteral feeding tube management

Patient Education: Effective communicator skilled in providing education to patients and caregivers on wound management, discharge planning, medication safety, and disease management
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving: Strong analytical skills that facilitate quick and effective decision-making in high-pressure situations