Rhonda Howard
East Bernstadt
Summary
Dynamic clinical manager with extensive experience in surgical services. Proven ability to enhance patient safety, streamline processes, and foster teamwork. Committed to implementing evidence-based practices for improved patient outcomes.
A strong comprehensive background in training and mentoring healthcare teams. Expertise in optimizing workflows and enhancing patient care through evidence-based practices. Aiming to contribute to organizational goals by fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement. Currently looking to change career paths from leadership to care provider.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Clinical Manager of Surgical Services
Saint Joseph London
London, KY
06.2021 - Current
- Managed a team of 67 employees, overseeing their daily activities and ensuring high-quality patient care
- Developed and implemented nursing policies and procedures to improve efficiency and standardize practices
- Oversaw the recruitment, hiring, and training of new nursing staff members, resulting in a highly skilled team
- Implemented performance evaluation system for nurses, providing feedback on areas of improvement and recognizing exceptional performance
- Created schedules for nursing staff, optimizing coverage while maintaining cost-effectiveness
- Led regular meetings with nursing staff to discuss updates on protocols, address concerns, and foster teamwork
- Ensured compliance with all regulatory standards related to nursing practice by conducting regular audits
- Implemented infection control measures within the unit to minimize the risk of hospital-acquired infections
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing patient outcomes through data analysis and process optimization
- Provided guidance and mentorship to junior nurses as they developed their skills in clinical practice
- Led regular team meetings to discuss department goals, address concerns, and foster a collaborative work environment
- Ensured compliance with all safety regulations and protocols, promoting a safe environment for patients and staff
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement initiatives aimed at reducing hospital readmissions
- Implemented evidence-based practice guidelines within the nursing unit to improve patient outcomes
- Facilitated ongoing education programs for nursing staff to ensure they remained up-to-date with the latest advancements in healthcare
- Identified opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality of care provided
- Managed budgets for the nursing department by monitoring expenses against allocated funds
Orthopedic Nurse Navigator
Saint Joseph London
London, KY
02.2020 - 06.2021
- Provided comprehensive care coordination and support to patients throughout their healthcare journey
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop individualized care plans for patients, ensuring continuity of care
- Assessed patient needs and facilitated access to appropriate medical services, resources, and community support programs
- Monitored patient progress and outcomes through regular follow-ups to ensure adherence to treatment plans
- Utilized electronic health records (EHR) systems to document patient interactions accurately and maintain up-to-date records
- Provided emotional support to patients facing complex medical conditions or challenging diagnoses
- Facilitated communication between healthcare providers involved in the patient's care plan for seamless coordination
- Participated in multidisciplinary meetings to discuss complex cases and contribute expertise as a nurse navigator
- Developed educational materials such as brochures or pamphlets on disease management strategies for patients' reference
- Maintained knowledge of current research findings related to specific diseases or conditions affecting assigned population
- Counseled patients on lifestyle modifications including diet changes, exercise routines, stress reduction techniques etc
- Served as a liaison between physicians/specialists/hospitals and patients to ensure seamless care transitions
- Implemented quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient satisfaction and outcomes
Surgical Nurse
Saint Joseph London
London, KY
06.2014 - 02.2020
- Provided direct patient care in the operating room, ensuring a safe and sterile environment for surgical procedures
- Administered medications as prescribed by physicians and monitored their effects on patients
- Prepared operating rooms for surgeries by sterilizing equipment, organizing supplies, and ensuring all necessary tools are available
- Collaborated with the surgical team to develop individualized care plans for each patient based on their specific needs
- Educated patients and their families about pre-operative and post-operative care instructions to promote successful recovery
- Maintained accurate documentation of patient information including medical history, medications administered, and surgical outcomes
- Responded quickly to emergency situations in the operating room by implementing appropriate interventions to stabilize patients
- Implemented infection control protocols in the operating room to minimize the risk of surgical site infections
- Managed inventory of surgical supplies and equipment, ensuring availability for scheduled procedures while minimizing waste
- Collaborated with anesthesia providers to ensure proper administration of anesthesia medications during surgeries
- Assisted in positioning patients on the operating table according to surgeon's requirements
- Mentored new staff members on best practices for perioperative nursing care
- Served as a resource person for colleagues regarding complex cases or specialized procedures
- Closely monitored sterile fields throughout surgeries to prevent contamination or breaches in aseptic technique
- Collaborated with the healthcare team to ensure patient safety and prevent adverse events during surgeries
- Assisted in the transportation of patients to and from the operating room, ensuring their comfort and safety
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes and optimize surgical processes
- Provided emotional support to patients and their families before, during, and after surgeries
Critical Care Registered Nurse
Saint Joseph London
London, KY
02.2013 - 02.2014
- Administered complex medication regimens and monitored patient responses in critical care settings.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement individualized patient care plans.
- Utilized advanced monitoring systems to assess vital signs and detect changes in patient conditions promptly.
- Educated patients and families on post-ICU care, enhancing understanding of recovery processes and health management.
- Managed critical care patients with complex medical conditions, providing compassionate care and support to families.
Education
Master of Science - Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner
University of The Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KY12-2024
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of The Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KY05-2020
Skills
- Clinical leadership
- Training and mentoring
- Staff supervision
- Staff scheduling
- Patient flow
- Patient records administration
- Patient education
- Patient safety
- Effective communication
- Emergency situational awareness
- Compliance oversight
- Quality improvement
- Direct patient care
- Clinical documentation
- Care delivery
Certification
BLS, ACLS, and PALS certified
Timeline
Clinical Manager of Surgical Services
Saint Joseph London
06.2021 - Current
Orthopedic Nurse Navigator
Saint Joseph London
02.2020 - 06.2021
Surgical Nurse
Saint Joseph London
06.2014 - 02.2020
Critical Care Registered Nurse
Saint Joseph London
02.2013 - 02.2014
Master of Science - Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner
University of The Cumberlands
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of The Cumberlands