Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
References
Timeline
Generic

Sarah Lursen

Shell Rock,IA

Summary

Compassionate Registered Nurse with ICU background. Possess essential skills in patient care, emergency response, medical teamwork and critical care nursing. Known for strong decision-making abilities, adaptability to high-stress environments and commitment to maintaining highest level of patient safety. Previous roles highlight effective communication with patients, families and medical staff along with outstanding contribution to quality healthcare delivery.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Registered Nurse, Intensive Care Unit

MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center
Waterloo, IA
04.2024 - Current
  • Administered medications and treatments per physician orders.
  • Monitored patient vital signs and reported changes to the medical team.
  • Collaborated with healthcare team to develop individualized care plans.
  • Educated patients and families on health management and medication use.
  • Maintained accurate patient records using electronic health record systems.
  • Participated in infection control procedures to ensure a safe environment.
  • Utilized critical thinking skills to assess clinical situations quickly and accurately.
  • Collaborated with physicians, nurses, therapists, social workers and other healthcare professionals to develop individualized treatment plans for each patient.
  • Assisted in emergency procedures to stabilize critically ill patients.
  • Assisted physicians with various invasive procedures within the ICU setting.
  • Implemented evidence-based practice guidelines when caring for critically ill patients.
  • Initiated resuscitation measures when necessary following cardiac arrest or respiratory failure events.
  • Responded quickly and efficiently to any changes in patient condition or treatment plan.
  • Facilitated admission and discharge processes for ICU patients.

Critical Care Speciality Tech

MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center, ICU
Waterloo, IA
08.2022 - 04.2024
  • Collaborated with nursing staff to execute care plans effectively.
  • Documented patient information in electronic health records accurately.
  • Maintained and calibrated medical equipment for optimal performance.
  • Trained new technicians on equipment usage and safety protocols.
  • Conducted routine checks on supplies and ordered necessary materials.
  • Adhered to infection control standards to ensure patient safety.
  • Provided compassionate care to patients in daily activities and personal hygiene tasks.
  • Performed vital sign assessments, such as taking blood pressure and temperature.
  • Monitored food intake and output as directed by nursing staff.
  • Monitored patient vital signs using telemetry equipment and alert systems.
  • Trained new staff on telemetry equipment operation and safety procedures.

Home Health CNA

Bartels Lutheren Retirement
Waverly, IA
03.2022 - 10.2022
  • Assisted clients with daily living activities and personal care.
  • Developed positive relationships with clients to enhance emotional support.
  • Provided companionship and engaged clients in meaningful conversation.
  • Coordinated schedules for appointments and transportation needs.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of client living environments.
  • Collaborated with family members to address client needs effectively.
  • Cared for patients by assisting with personal hygiene tasks and completing basic household chores.
  • Changed bed linens and maintained a clean living environment for the client's safety.
  • Assisted clients with bathing, dressing, and incontinence care.
  • Helped clients move in bed, stand or walk using proper body mechanics techniques.
  • Prepared meals and snacks according to prescribed diets.
  • Helped client with medication self-administration.
  • Developed strong and trusting rapport with patients to facilitate smooth, quality care.
  • Dressed, groomed and fed patients with limited physical abilities to support basic needs.
  • Helped patients move in and out of beds, wheelchairs or automobiles and with dressing and grooming.

Registered Veterinary Technician

Compassionate Care Vet Clinic
Waverly, IA
03.2015 - 11.2021
  • Prepared and maintained surgical instruments and equipment for efficient use in procedures.
  • Monitored patient vital signs and behavior to ensure health and comfort during treatment.
  • Educated pet owners on proper care, nutrition, and medication administration for their animals.
  • Administered medications and vaccinations as directed by veterinarians with precision.
  • Conducted routine laboratory tests to support accurate diagnostics for various conditions.
  • Managed inventory of medical supplies to ensure availability for daily operations in the clinic.
  • Provided compassionate support to clients, fostering a caring environment during visits.
  • Cared for animals in post-operative recovery by closely monitoring vital signs and progress.
  • Scrubbed, counted, and packed surgical instruments and drapes for autoclave sterilization.
  • Performed laboratory tests such as urinalysis, fecal analysis, heartworm testing, and feline leukemia and FIV testing.
  • Performed routine dental cleanings utilizing appropriate equipment such as ultrasonic scalers and polishers.
  • Educated pet owners on proper nutrition, preventive healthcare measures and home care techniques to promote good health in their pets.
  • Restrained animals for examination or treatment when necessary.
  • Responded to emergency calls after hours when necessary.
  • Monitored anesthesia levels during surgery and provided post-surgical recovery support.
  • Shaved surgical areas and placed IV catheters in preparation for surgery.
  • Operated anesthesia, oxygen and monitoring equipment.
  • Operated x-ray machines and exposed radiographic films.
  • Administered and monitored anesthesia for surgeries and operations.
  • Conducted initial exams on pets, took vital signs and collected samples for lab.
  • Delivered excellent service to pet owners to drive repeat business.
  • Provided nursing care to hospitalized animals, including monitoring vital signs and administering medications and treatments under the direction of a veterinarian.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

Mercy College of Health Science
Des Moines, IA
04-2024

Bachelor of Science - Animal Science

Iowa State University
Ames, IA
12-2013

Associate of Science - Veterinary Technology

Des Moines Area Community College
Ankeny, IA
05-2010

Skills

  • Patient assessment
  • Electronic health records
  • Critical care techniques
  • Emergency response
  • Effective communication
  • Time management
  • Team collaboration
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem solving

Certification

  • Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support 7/24

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Registered Nurse, Intensive Care Unit

MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center
04.2024 - Current

Critical Care Speciality Tech

MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center, ICU
08.2022 - 04.2024

Home Health CNA

Bartels Lutheren Retirement
03.2022 - 10.2022

Registered Veterinary Technician

Compassionate Care Vet Clinic
03.2015 - 11.2021

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

Mercy College of Health Science

Bachelor of Science - Animal Science

Iowa State University

Associate of Science - Veterinary Technology

Des Moines Area Community College

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