Sara Vandenberg
Mound,MN
Summary
Highly skilled Registered Nurse with over 20 years of experience in critical care and high-acuity environments. Beginning my career at Methodist Hospital in 2002, I developed a solid foundation in General Medicine before transitioning to the Critical Care Float Pool, where I gained hands-on experience in various MICU and CVICU specialties. Since 2005, I have served as a Flying Squad/Rapid Response RN, where I am relied upon for quick, decisive action in life-threatening situations, providing rapid patient assessments and interventions that improve outcomes in emergency scenarios.
Recognized as a leader and mentor, I have been a trusted resource for the University of Minnesota Family Medicine Residents and new staff, providing guidance, training, and support to help them navigate the challenges of critical care environments. Known for my ability to make swift, evidence-based decisions in rapidly changing environments, I am committed to advancing patient care while fostering a culture of teamwork and clinical excellence.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Flying Squad/Rapid Response RN
Health Partners/Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital
12.2005 - Current
- Provide immediate, high-acuity care for patients experiencing rapid declines in health across multiple hospital units.
- Lead and coordinate multidisciplinary teams to stabilize patients and ensure optimal outcomes.
- Perform rapid patient assessments, administer interventions, and support critical decision-making in high-stress environments.
- Mentor and provide guidance to new staff and University of Minnesota Family Medicine Residents, helping them develop critical care skills and clinical judgment.
- Foster a collaborative team environment to ensure smooth communication and efficient care during emergencies.
Critical Care Float Pool RN
Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital
10.2004 - 12.2005
- Delivered comprehensive care across various critical care units, including ICU, CCU, and emergency care settings.
- Collaborated with medical teams to implement and monitor complex treatment plans for critically ill patients.
- Provided education and mentorship to newer staff and residents on clinical best practices and emergency protocols.
General Medical RN
Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital
10.2002 - 10.2004
- Provided nursing care to patients on the General Medical Unit, addressing a wide range of medical conditions.
- Delivered patient assessments, administered medications, and coordinated care plans with physicians and specialists.
- Supported patient and family education, ensuring comprehensive understanding of medical conditions and treatment plans.
Education
Master of Science - Nursing Leadership And Management
Regis University
Denver, CO12-2005
Bachelor of Arts - Nursing
St. Olaf College
Northfield, MN05-2002
Skills
- Leadership & Mentorship in High-Acuity Environments
- Rapid Decision Making in Critical Care
- Team Coordination & Collaboration in Emergency Situations
- Patient Assessment & Acute Intervention
- Effective Communication in High-Pressure Environments
- Conflict Resolution & Staff Development
Accomplishments
2025 - Selected as the Park Nicollet Nurse of Excellence
2014 - Selected as the Preceptor of the Year by the University of Minnesota Family Medicine Residents
Certification
- Certified Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN)
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) Certified
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) Certified
Quality Improvement Certification
LEAN Manufacturing Certification — Shingiijutsu Global Consulting/JBA Consultants, 2006-2008.
- Training/On-Site Education in Japan (2008) and Seattle (2007)
Timeline
Flying Squad/Rapid Response RN
Health Partners/Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital
12.2005 - Current
Critical Care Float Pool RN
Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital
10.2004 - 12.2005
General Medical RN
Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital
10.2002 - 10.2004
Master of Science - Nursing Leadership And Management
Regis University
Bachelor of Arts - Nursing
St. Olaf College
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