Sarah McElroy
Virginia Beach,VA
Summary
Dynamic Registered Nurse with critical care expertise at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, adept at medication administration and patient advocacy. Successfully improved patient outcomes through evidence-based care plans and compassionate support, enhancing satisfaction scores. Recognized for strong clinical judgment and leadership in mentoring nursing staff while ensuring adherence to infection control protocols.
Experienced healthcare professional skilled in patient care, critical thinking, and communication. Strong focus on team collaboration and achieving optimal patient outcomes. Reliable and adaptable, ensuring efficient and compassionate care in dynamic environments. Equipped with expertise in medical procedures, patient assessments, and care coordination.
Hardworking Registered Nurse with success providing individualized patient care. Committed to delivering best-in-class patient care through effective education and counseling. Proven leadership focused on increasing and enhancing patient care and satisfaction. Streamline safety protocols for comprehensive patient care. Diligent Cardiac Care position with background in patient care and nursing. Skilled in managing complex medical conditions and supporting patient recovery. Demonstrated expertise in critical thinking and effective communication.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Registered Nurse Cardiac Care
Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital
01.2018 - 05.2024
- 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.
- Assisted in the training and mentorship of new nursing staff members, contributing to a positive work environment and high-quality patient care.
- 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.
- Skillfully managed challenging patient situations using de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention strategies, and therapeutic communication skills.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based nursing interventions and individualized care plans.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in nursing care and emerging trends in healthcare delivery.
- Provided support for patients'' families during difficult medical decisions or end-of-life care, serving as a liaison between the healthcare team and loved ones.
- 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.
- Implemented evidence-based fall prevention strategies, resulting in a significant decrease in patient falls within the unit.
- Demonstrated expertise in wound management techniques resulting in accelerated healing times for patients with complex wounds or pressure injuries.
- 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.
- Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
- Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically-ill patients.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
- Offered exceptional care and support to individuals recovering from acute incidents and dealing with chronic conditions.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- 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.
- Promoted patient and family comfort during challenging recoveries to enhance healing and eliminate non-compliance problems.
- Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
- Delivered high level of quality care to diverse populations while overseeing patient admission and triaging based on acuity and appropriate department admission.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Equipped patients with tools and knowledge needed for speedy and sustained recovery.
- Recorded details regarding therapies to keep patient charts updated.
- Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviors and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.
- Reported findings to quality departments after conducting routine restraint audits and worked with team to devise corrective actions for deficiencies.
PACU Charge Nurse
BonSecours DePaul Hospital
08.2017 - 01.2018
- Ensured timely patient recovery by closely monitoring vital signs, pain levels, and postoperative complications.
- Maintained strict compliance with safety regulations, infection control protocols, and hospital policies at all times in the PACU environment.
- Supported continuity of care through clear communication with interdisciplinary team members both verbally and written documentation.
- Enhanced staff efficiency by providing ongoing training, mentorship, and support to new and experienced nurses.
- Increased patient satisfaction scores through effective communication strategies that engendered trust and rapport between patients, families, and healthcare providers.
- Streamlined workflow processes by delegating tasks effectively among team members according to their skills and expertise.
- Advocated for patients and their families to ensure that they received the highest quality of care.
- Fostered a positive work environment that encouraged teamwork, collaboration, and professional growth among nursing staff members.
- Expedited discharge planning processes by collaborating with case managers to provide necessary referrals or resources upon leaving the PACU setting.
- Contributed to a positive team dynamic through active participation in meetings, educational sessions, and collaborative problemsolving.
- Enhanced overall unit performance by participating in process improvement initiatives aimed at improving clinical outcomes for patients in the PACU setting.
- Improved patient care by implementing evidence-based nursing practices and protocols in the PACU.
- Mitigated risk for potential complications through diligent assessment of post-operative patients'' needs.
- Reduced medication errors by implementing standardized medication administration procedures based on best practices.
- Collaborated with surgeons and anesthesiologists for seamless patient hand-offs during preoperative and postoperative stages.
- Contributed to optimal patient outcomes by coordinating with interdisciplinary teams for comprehensive care plans.
- Evaluated patients' pain levels, implementing correct dosage of medication to alleviate discomfort.
- Took vitals and assessed patients in recovery room following surgical procedures.
- Evaluated cardio-respiratory systems for deviations, providing appropriate treatment as necessary.
- Performed flawless autonomous practice consistent with evidence-based standards and patient care considerations.
- Assessed and identified individual patient educational needs, removing barriers to learning and supporting comprehensive progress.
- 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.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- 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.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- 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.
- 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.
- Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviors and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.
- Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injuries and illnesses.
- Recorded details regarding therapies to keep patient charts updated.
- Equipped patients with tools and knowledge needed for speedy and sustained recovery.
- Sustained quality standards by performing routine medication audits and upholding internal and industry best practices.
- Reported findings to quality departments after conducting routine restraint audits and worked with team to devise corrective actions for deficiencies.
PACU Charge Nurse
Sentara Princess Anne Hospital
01.2017 - 01.2018
- Ensured timely patient recovery by closely monitoring vital signs, pain levels, and postoperative complications.
- Maintained strict compliance with safety regulations, infection control protocols, and hospital policies at all times in the PACU environment.
- Supported continuity of care through clear communication with interdisciplinary team members both verbally and written documentation.
- Enhanced staff efficiency by providing ongoing training, mentorship, and support to new and experienced nurses.
- Increased patient satisfaction scores through effective communication strategies that engendered trust and rapport between patients, families, and healthcare providers.
- Fostered a positive work environment that encouraged teamwork, collaboration, and professional growth among nursing staff members.
- Advocated for patients and their families to ensure that they received the highest quality of care.
- Streamlined workflow processes by delegating tasks effectively among team members according to their skills and expertise.
- Expedited discharge planning processes by collaborating with case managers to provide necessary referrals or resources upon leaving the PACU setting.
- Contributed to a positive team dynamic through active participation in meetings, educational sessions, and collaborative problemsolving.
- Enhanced overall unit performance by participating in process improvement initiatives aimed at improving clinical outcomes for patients in the PACU setting.
- Improved patient care by implementing evidence-based nursing practices and protocols in the PACU.
- Mitigated risk for potential complications through diligent assessment of post-operative patients'' needs.
- Reduced medication errors by implementing standardized medication administration procedures based on best practices.
- Collaborated with surgeons and anesthesiologists for seamless patient hand-offs during preoperative and postoperative stages.
- Identified potential areas for improvement and implemented evidence-based changes to enhance patient care while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Contributed to optimal patient outcomes by coordinating with interdisciplinary teams for comprehensive care plans.
- Evaluated patients' pain levels, implementing correct dosage of medication to alleviate discomfort.
- Took vitals and assessed patients in recovery room following surgical procedures.
- Evaluated cardio-respiratory systems for deviations, providing appropriate treatment as necessary.
- Provided individualized care and dedicated oversight to accommodate the scheduled of patients in post-operative recovery room.
School Nurse Coordinator
Northampton County Schools
01.2016 - 07.2017
- Fostered a positive relationship between the school nurse''s office and the wider school community through open communication channels and collaboration efforts.
- Evaluated and refined health policies and procedures to ensure alignment with state regulations and best practices in school nursing.
- Organized annual health fairs, offering students an opportunity to learn about wellness resources within the community.
- Provided regular reports on student health trends to school administration, contributing valuable insights for data-driven decision-making processes.
- Promoted a safe and healthy school environment by conducting regular safety assessments and implementing necessary improvements.
- Streamlined communication between school administration, teachers, and parents regarding student health issues, promoting timely intervention when needed.
- Trained faculty and staff on emergency response procedures, increasing preparedness for potential medical situations.
- Reduced absenteeism rates by promptly addressing health concerns and providing preventive care to students.
- Developed educational materials on various health topics for distribution throughout the school community, raising awareness of important issues.
- Served as a liaison between the school, families, healthcare providers, and community agencies to address student health needs collaboratively.
- Implemented innovative strategies for managing chronic illnesses among students, minimizing disruptions to their education.
- Enhanced overall campus safety by participating in emergency planning committees and coordinating efforts with local authorities.
- Enhanced student health and well-being by implementing comprehensive health programs and initiatives.
- Collaborated with school staff to develop individualized healthcare plans for students with special needs, ensuring proper support in the learning environment.
- Led professional development trainings on topics related to student health and safety, equipping educators with valuable skills and knowledge.
- Provided compassionate care to sick or injured students while maintaining detailed records of all visits to the nurse''s office.
- Managed immunization compliance efforts, maintaining accurate records and ensuring adherence to state requirements.
- Administered medication to students as prescribed by physicians to provide necessary treatment and manage health conditions.
- Assessed student health and identified potential health concerns to provide appropriate care.
- Served as liaison between families, school personnel, and other healthcare providers on behalf of students.
- Educated students on various health topics to promote overall health and wellbeing.
- Screened for infectious diseases to help prevent spreading within school community.
- Implemented emergency protocols in medical emergencies to promote safety for students and staff.
- Oversaw health services for school of 1,334 students and faculty.
- Maintained upkeep on defibrillators, blood pressure monitors and first aid kits to keep resources in working condition for emergencies.
- Participated in development of school safety plans to address areas of concern.
- Worked with multidisciplinary team to carry out successful treatment plans for diverse acute and chronic conditions.
- Developed care plans and made referrals as necessary for students with health concerns or injuries.
- Documented patient vitals, behaviors, and conditions to communicate concerns to supervising nurse.
- Performed health screening for students and faculty by conducting Hearing an Vision evaluations.
Critical Care Registered Nurse
Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital
08.2009 - 12.2016
- Administered life-saving medications and therapies under strict protocols, guiding patients towards recovery from acute illnesses or injuries.
- Assessed and managed various patient treatments for numerous patient diagnoses from sepsis to acute respiratory distress.
- Monitored hemodynamic parameters and analyzed complex data sets, making appropriate adjustments to treatment plans based on patient response.
- Served as a preceptor for new nurses entering the critical care field, sharing knowledge and expertise to facilitate successful integration into the team.
- Demonstrated a high level of adaptability in adjusting to ever-changing patient acuity levels within the critical care unit, ensuring consistent delivery of safe and effective nursing care.
- Actively participated in continuing education opportunities to remain current with best practices in the rapidly evolving field of critical care nursing.
- Managed multiple priorities simultaneously while maintaining focus on providing exceptional patient-centered care within a fast-paced critical care environment.
- Maintained high standards of infection control within the critical care unit, contributing to a safer environment for both patients and staff.
- Utilized advanced assessment skills to quickly identify changes in patient condition requiring intervention or escalation of care.
- Provided compassionate end-of-life care for terminally ill patients and their families, ensuring dignity and comfort during difficult times.
- Oversaw various aspects of telemetry by administering pa catheters and arterials, vasoactive drugs, titration, thrombolytic therapy, dysrhythmia interpretation, and chest tubes.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams during daily rounds to develop individualized treatment plans based on specific patient needs and goals.
- Improved patient outcomes by developing and implementing comprehensive care plans for critically ill patients.
- Led the rapid response team in emergency situations, showcasing strong clinical judgment and decision-making abilities under pressure.
- Enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration by effectively communicating with physicians, therapists, and support staff to ensure optimal patient care.
- Trained and coached new employees on protocols and best practices to promote ideal patient outcomes.
- Facilitated smooth transitions of care between critical care and other hospital units by maintaining effective communication with receiving staff and providing thorough handoff reports.
- Conducted patient assessments, recorded vitals, and analyzed records and charts to define care requirements.
- Performed invasive procedures such as central line insertions or arterial catheter placements with precision and confidence when necessary for optimal patient outcomes.
- Streamlined workflow processes within the critical care unit, resulting in increased efficiency and improved patient satisfaction.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives aimed at reducing complications related to ventilator use, central line infections, and pressure ulcers.
- Assisted in the development of evidence-based protocols for the management of complex medical conditions, leading to better clinical outcomes.
- Coordinated with healthcare staff from various disciplines to devise, carry out, and manage personalized care plans to benefit patient health and recovery.
- Reduced hospital readmission rates through thorough discharge planning and patient education on self-care management strategies.
- Assessed and documented changes in patient's condition and prepared patient for transfer to higher level of care.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Triaged patients and delegated treatment needs to qualified staff and specialized departments.
- Administered medications and treatments as ordered by physician.
- Provided targeted care and treatment to all critical care patients.
Education
Associate of Science - Nursing
Riverside School Of Professional Nursing
Newport News, VA09-1980
Skills
- Medication and IV administration
- Medication administration
- Direct patient care
- Patient assessments
- Documentation and charting
- Strong clinical judgment
- Clinical judgment
- Patient education and counseling
- Patient and family advocacy
- Infection control measures
- Patient care
- Wound care
- Compassion and empathy
- Patient monitoring
- IV setup
- Intravenous therapy
- Care planning
- Patient management
- Care plan development
- Professional bedside manner
- Physical assessments
- Patient care planning
- Patient evaluation
- Telemetry monitoring
- Family education
- Licensed RN
- Advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) certification
- Critical care
- Collecting vitals
- Nursing staff leadership
- Medication distribution
- Tracheostomy care
- Precepting
- Patient discharge
- Lab result interpretation
- EMR systems
- Performing ekgs
- Complex Problem-solving
- Proper catheter insertion/removal
- Intake and discharge
- Emergency response
- Maintaining privacy
- Relationship building
- Chart updating
- Vaccine administration
- Diabetes management
- Insulin medication assistance
- EMR / EHR
- High level of autonomy
- Procedure preparations
- Chronic disease management
- Medical assessment
- Staff supervision
- Personal care needs
- Diabetes and nutrition education
- Chest pain management
- Emergency procedures
- HIPAA education
- Emergency care
- Acute care expertise
- Oxygen saturation standards
- Mobility assistance
- Removing sutures
- Palliative care awareness
- Medical records management
- Managing deadlines
- Preventive health
- Family advocacy
- Seizure management
- At-risk patient care
- Feeding assistance
- Medical evaluation
- EPIC use familiar
Languages
English
Timeline
Registered Nurse Cardiac Care
Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital
01.2018 - 05.2024
PACU Charge Nurse
BonSecours DePaul Hospital
08.2017 - 01.2018
PACU Charge Nurse
Sentara Princess Anne Hospital
01.2017 - 01.2018
School Nurse Coordinator
Northampton County Schools
01.2016 - 07.2017
Critical Care Registered Nurse
Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital
08.2009 - 12.2016
Associate of Science - Nursing
Riverside School Of Professional Nursing
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