Rowena Fernandez
RN
Corpus Christi,Texas
Summary
Dynamic RN Circulator with extensive experience at Surgicare of Corpus Christi & Saratoga Surgical Center, adept at enhancing patient safety and satisfaction through effective preoperative education and compassionate care. Proven ability to implement infection control protocols, significantly reducing postoperative complications while fostering teamwork and collaboration within multidisciplinary surgical teams.
Healthcare professional with strong background in perioperative nursing. Proven ability to manage surgical cases efficiently while ensuring patient safety and comfort. Known for collaborative teamwork and adaptability in dynamic healthcare settings. Highly skilled in surgical assistance, patient assessment, and maintaining sterile environments.
Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
Equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Poised to contribute to team success and achieve positive results. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
RN Circulator
Surgicare of Corpus Christi
03.2011 - 09.2025
- Coordinated surgical procedures, ensuring efficient workflow and patient safety.
- Monitored and assessed patients' vital signs during operations to maintain optimal conditions.
- Collaborated with surgeons and anesthesiologists to facilitate seamless surgical interventions.
- Educated patients on pre-operative and post-operative care to enhance recovery outcomes.
- Implemented infection control protocols, significantly reducing risk of postoperative complications.
- Evaluated surgical instruments for readiness and compliance with safety standards prior to use.
- Led quality improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency in the surgical unit.
- Managed emergency situations adeptly with swift decision-making skills and effective collaboration with the entire healthcare team.
- Upheld patient confidentiality standards by securely managing personal health information according to HIPAA regulations.
- Safeguarded patients'' well-being by diligently reviewing medical histories, medication lists, and lab results before surgery.
- Trained and mentored junior staff in surgical protocols and best practices for patient care.
RN Circulator
Saratoga Surgical Center
08.2018 - 04.2024
- Facilitated patient safety by ensuring compliance with surgical protocols and infection control standards.
- Coordinated with surgical teams to optimize workflow and enhance procedural efficiency.
- Monitored patients' vital signs during procedures, maintaining a focus on rapid response to changes.
- Assisted in the development of training materials for new nursing staff, improving onboarding effectiveness.
- Mentored junior nurses in best practices for patient management and surgical assistance techniques.
- Ensured timely communication between surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals for seamless patient care.
- Demonstrated commitment to professional development by attending conferences, engaging in continuing education courses, and staying current on best nursing practices.
- Prevented infection risks by consistently adhering to strict aseptic protocols throughout all stages of surgical procedures.
- Expedited discharge process for patients by promptly completing post-operative assessments and updating electronic health records accurately.
- Minimized surgery delays through meticulous preparation of equipment, instruments, and supplies needed for each specific operation.
- Optimized operating room efficiency by anticipating needs of the surgical team and swiftly responding to any changes in procedure.
- Reduced post-operative complications by ensuring proper sterile technique and maintaining a clean operating room environment.
- Promoted a positive work environment by mentoring new nursing staff and collaborating effectively with colleagues from various disciplines.
- Enhanced patient safety by closely monitoring surgical procedures and providing timely assistance to the surgical team.
RN Circulator
Corpus Christi Outpatient Surgery Center
02.2008 - 02.2011
- Assisted in reducing hospital readmission rates through comprehensive patient education on post-surgical self-care and follow-up appointments.
- Participated in hospital-wide quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing patient care standards and streamlining workflows.
- Supported successful surgeries by skillfully assisting surgeons with instrument handling, suturing, wound dressing applications, and specimen collection.
- Maintained accurate documentation of each surgical case, facilitating clear communication among team members and supporting quality assurance efforts.
- Elevated patient satisfaction scores through compassionate care delivery during the stressful perioperative period.
- Improved patient outcomes through thorough pre-operative assessments and efficient coordination with the interdisciplinary team.
- Contributed to reduced recovery times by effectively managing patients'' pain and discomfort during the perioperative period.
- 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.
- Collected, labeled, and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
- Prepped operating rooms to comply with environmental asepsis standards.
- Performed pre-operative assessments to prepare patients for surgery.
- Assisted physicians in operating room by providing necessary supplies and equipment.
- Provided direct support to surgical team during procedures.
- Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety, and rights of patient.
- Sanitized, selected and organizing instruments, equipment and supplies according to surgeon preferences.
- Provided effective bedside care to patients before and after procedures to deliver comfort.
- Monitored patients' vital signs and administered medications per physician orders or good practices.
- Provided instruction to patients and family members before and after surgical procedures.
- Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
- Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
RN Circulator
Coastal Bend Surgery Center/ South Texas Surgical Hospital
02.2005 - 02.2008
- Fostered a culture of patient safety by actively participating in root cause analyses and implementing corrective actions for identified issues.
- Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
- Collaborated with members of patients' healthcare team to deliver appropriate level of care.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
RN Circulator
Oakbrook Surgical Center
01.2002 - 06.2003
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- Delivered high level of quality care to diverse populations while overseeing patient admission and triaging based on acuity and appropriate department admission.
- Promoted patient and family comfort during challenging recoveries to enhance healing and eliminate non-compliance problems.
- Recorded details regarding therapies to keep patient charts updated.
- Equipped patients with tools and knowledge needed for speedy and sustained recovery.
- Led teams in driving successful patient outcomes by prioritizing standard of care and best practices.
- Leveraged feedback and process improvement opportunities to create safer and healthier environment and increase patient satisfaction.
- Coordinated surgical procedures, ensuring efficient workflow and patient safety.
- Monitored and assessed patients' vital signs during operations to maintain optimal conditions.
- Collaborated with surgeons and anesthesiologists to facilitate seamless surgical interventions.
- Educated patients on pre-operative and post-operative care to enhance recovery outcomes.
- Implemented infection control protocols, significantly reducing risk of postoperative complications.
RN Circulator in Level 1 Trauma Hospital
University Medical Center
03.1998 - 01.2002
- Coordinated patient safety protocols during surgical procedures to ensure optimal outcomes.
- Assisted in the preparation and maintenance of sterile environments for various surgical interventions.
- Monitored patients' vital signs and reported significant changes to the surgical team promptly.
- Educated patients and families about pre- and post-operative care processes to enhance recovery experience.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to streamline surgical workflows and improve efficiency.
- Implemented quality improvement initiatives that enhanced patient satisfaction scores within the department.
- Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically-ill patients.
- Offered exceptional care and support to individuals recovering from acute incidents and dealing with chronic conditions.
- Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
- Observed and documented patient factors such as diets, physical activity levels, and behaviors to understand conditions and effectively modify treatment plans.
- Implemented care plans for patient treatment after assessing physician medical regimens.
- Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injuries and illnesses.
- Collaborated with leadership to devise initiatives for improving nursing satisfaction, retention and morale.
- Sustained quality standards by performing routine medication audits and upholding internal and industry best practices.
- Managed emergency situations adeptly with swift decision-making skills and effective collaboration with the entire healthcare team.
- Upheld patient confidentiality standards by securely managing personal health information according to HIPAA regulations.
- Safeguarded patients'' well-being by diligently reviewing medical histories, medication lists, and lab results before surgery.
- Ensured timely communication between surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals for seamless patient care.
- Demonstrated commitment to professional development by attending conferences, engaging in continuing education courses, and staying current on best nursing practices.
- Prevented infection risks by consistently adhering to strict aseptic protocols throughout all stages of surgical procedures.
- Minimized surgery delays through meticulous preparation of equipment, instruments, and supplies needed for each specific operation.
- Optimized operating room efficiency by anticipating needs of the surgical team and swiftly responding to any changes in procedure.
- Reduced post-operative complications by ensuring proper sterile technique and maintaining a clean operating room environment.
- Enhanced patient safety by closely monitoring surgical procedures and providing timely assistance to the surgical team.
- Participated in hospital-wide quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing patient care standards and streamlining workflows.
- Supported successful surgeries by skillfully assisting surgeons with instrument handling, suturing, wound dressing applications, and specimen collection.
- Maintained accurate documentation of each surgical case, facilitating clear communication among team members and supporting quality assurance efforts.
- Elevated patient satisfaction scores through compassionate care delivery during the stressful perioperative period.
- Improved patient outcomes through thorough pre-operative assessments and efficient coordination with the interdisciplinary team.
- 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.
- Collected, labeled, and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
- Prepped operating rooms to comply with environmental asepsis standards.
- Performed pre-operative assessments to prepare patients for surgery.
- Assisted physicians in operating room by providing necessary supplies and equipment.
- Provided direct support to surgical team during procedures.
- Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety, and rights of patient.
- Sanitized, selected and organizing instruments, equipment and supplies according to surgeon preferences.
- Monitored patients' vital signs and administered medications per physician orders or good practices.
- Provided effective bedside care to patients before and after procedures to deliver comfort.
- Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
Emergency Room Registered Nurse
Brownsville Medical Center
01.1995 - 02.1998
- Provided critical care to patients in high-pressure emergency situations.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive patient assessments and treatments.
- Administered medications and monitored vital signs for rapid response to patient needs.
- Educated patients and families on treatment plans and post-discharge care instructions.
- Implemented best practices in emergency protocols to improve patient outcomes and efficiency.
- Conducted triage evaluations, prioritizing care based on severity of conditions presented.
- Utilized advanced medical technology to facilitate accurate diagnostics and treatment interventions.
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Assisted physicians during invasive procedures such as central line insertions or intubations, ensuring safe and accurate completion of tasks.
- Streamlined emergency room operations by efficiently triaging patients according to the severity of their condition.
- Facilitated clear communication with patients, families, and colleagues, fostering a positive environment in a fast-paced setting.
- Answered codes quickly and orchestrated efficient, skilled medical care.
- Deescalated tense situations involving agitated patients or family members through active listening skills and empathetic responses.
- Teamed on trauma and emergency interventions involving serious head injuries, gunshot wounds, and thoracic trauma.
- Provided emotional support to patients and families during crisis situations, helping them cope more effectively with difficult circumstances.
- Prevented medication errors by diligently verifying drug orders against patient records before administering treatments.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams for optimal patient outcomes during high-stress situations.
- Educated patients and families on post-discharge care instructions, promoting adherence to prescribed regimens for improved health outcomes at home.
- Administered appropriate medications and treatments, ensuring accurate dosage and timely delivery for improved patient health.
- Administered different therapies and medications in line with physician orders and treatment plan.
- Updated personal nursing knowledge through continuing education courses, staying current on best practices in emergency medicine.
- Expedited treatment plans by interpreting diagnostic tests accurately and collaborating with physicians on appropriate interventions.
- Enhanced patient care by conducting thorough assessments and promptly addressing critical needs.
- Communicated openly and collaboratively with all healthcare staff to organize successful patient care.
- Educated patients and answered questions about health condition, prognosis, and treatment.
- Delivered culturally competent care to diverse populations, adapting communication styles as needed for optimal understanding between parties involved.
- Reduced wait times by swiftly completing documentation and communicating effectively with medical staff.
- Delivered important IV and venous medications to control symptoms and provide effective treatments.
- Performed frequent checks on life support equipment and made necessary adjustments to preserve optimal patient conditions.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
RN in the ER/OR/Preop/PACU/Labor and Delivery/
Medical City General Hospital
03.1990 - 03.1994
- Provided comprehensive patient assessments and developed individualized care plans.
- Administered medications and monitored patient responses to treatments effectively.
- Educated patients and families on health management and post-discharge care.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to enhance patient outcomes and streamline workflows.
- 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.
- Administered medications safely according to established guidelines while closely monitoring for side effects or adverse reactions requiring intervention.
- Enhanced patient satisfaction by providing compassionate, holistic nursing care that addressed physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
- 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.
- 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.
- Advised patients and caregivers of proper wound management, discharge plan objectives, safe medication use, and disease management.
- 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.
- Streamlined medication administration processes for increased safety and accuracy during busy shifts.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans for complex cases.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- Recorded details regarding therapies to keep patient charts updated.
- Led teams in driving successful patient outcomes by prioritizing standard of care and best practices.
- Leveraged feedback and process improvement opportunities to create safer and healthier environment and increase patient satisfaction.
- Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically-ill patients.
- Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injuries and illnesses.
- Collaborated with leadership to devise initiatives for improving nursing satisfaction, retention and morale.
- Sustained quality standards by performing routine medication audits and upholding internal and industry best practices.
- Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
- Performed frequent checks on life support equipment and made necessary adjustments to preserve optimal patient conditions.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
RN Surgical Floor
University of Santo Tomas Charity Hospital
07.1988 - 05.1990
- Administer patient care, including medication management and vital sign monitoring.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop and implement individualized care plans.
- Educate patients and families on disease management and health maintenance strategies.
- Coordinate discharge planning, ensuring continuity of care post-hospitalization.
- Implement best practices in infection control to minimize hospital-acquired infections.
- Conveyed treatment options, diagnosis information and home care techniques to patients and caregivers to continue care consistency.
Education
Master of Science - Nursing Leadership in Healthcare Systems
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ12-2026
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of Santo Tomas
Manila, Philippines03-1988
Skills
- Patient assessment skills
- Compassionate care
- Preoperative care
- Ethical practice
- Postoperative care
- Anesthesia monitoring
- Cultural heritage knowledge
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Basic life support
- Analytical reasoning
- HIPAA compliance
- Patient safety
- Patient communication
- Verbal and written communication
- Strategic decision-making
Certification
BLS/ACLS/PALS
Languages
English
Full Professional
Spanish
Limited Working
Tagalog
Full Professional
Interests
- Passionate about balancing physical health with mental and emotional wellness
- Dancing
- Gym Workouts
- I participate in low-impact exercises to strengthen core muscles
- Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and flavors in the kitchen
- I enjoy cooking for friends and family gatherings
- Documenting and sharing travel experiences
- Reading
- Fashion and Style
- Gardening
- Animal Care
- Watching Movies and TV Shows
Timeline
RN Circulator
Saratoga Surgical Center
08.2018 - 04.2024
RN Circulator
Surgicare of Corpus Christi
03.2011 - 09.2025
RN Circulator
Corpus Christi Outpatient Surgery Center
02.2008 - 02.2011
RN Circulator
Coastal Bend Surgery Center/ South Texas Surgical Hospital
02.2005 - 02.2008
RN Circulator
Oakbrook Surgical Center
01.2002 - 06.2003
RN Circulator in Level 1 Trauma Hospital
University Medical Center
03.1998 - 01.2002
Emergency Room Registered Nurse
Brownsville Medical Center
01.1995 - 02.1998
RN in the ER/OR/Preop/PACU/Labor and Delivery/
Medical City General Hospital
03.1990 - 03.1994
RN Surgical Floor
University of Santo Tomas Charity Hospital
07.1988 - 05.1990
Master of Science - Nursing Leadership in Healthcare Systems
Grand Canyon University
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of Santo Tomas
Accomplishments
Seasoned perioperative nurse for 37 years. Currently a graduate student of MSN leadership in Healthcare Systems @ Grand Canyon University, expected graduation December, 2026.
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
swipe to browse
Quote
Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.
Winston S. Churchill
Software
Microsoft Word/PowerPoint/Email Management/Video Conferencing