Professional Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
RN

Sarah Navarro

Grand Strand Medical Center HCA
Longs,SC
1
Certification
35
years of professional experience

Seasoned charge nurse with extensive emergency and critical care experience across fast-paced hospital settings. Recognized for leading teams, prioritizing high-acuity patients, and mentoring new nurses. Committed to safe operations, clear communication, and strong documentation standards.

Work History

Staff Relief Charge Nurse, North Strand Emergency

7 Months
Grand Strand Medical Center HCA | 03.2026 - Current
  • Coordinated admissions, transfers, and discharges to maintain unit throughput
  • Supervised patient flow and staffing adjustments during shift coverage
  • Delegated assignments based on acuity, skill mix, and census needs
  • Monitored clinical priorities and escalated concerns to provider teams
  • Supported bedside nurses with medication safety and documentation accuracy
  • Trained incoming staff on unit routines, charge responsibilities, and expectations
  • Mentored new nurses, fostering a positive work environment and promoting teamwork.
  • Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
  • 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.
  • Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injuries and illnesses.

Registered Nurse, North Strand Emergency Room

11 Months
Grand Strand Medical Center HCA | 11.2025 - Current
  • Administered medications and monitored responses, maintaining accurate patient safety standards.
  • Performed comprehensive patient assessments and documented findings in electronic health records.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary care teams to coordinate treatment plans and patient needs.
  • Educated patients and families on discharge instructions, medications, and recovery expectations.
  • Monitored vital signs and reported condition changes promptly to support timely interventions.
  • Maintained infection prevention practices and followed hospital protocols for safe care delivery.
  • Assisted with admissions, transfers, and discharges while ensuring smooth patient flow.
  • Responded to urgent patient needs with calm prioritization and effective clinical support.
  • Utilized critical thinking skills to prioritize nursing interventions based on patients'' acuity levels and individual needs.
  • Assisted in the training and mentorship of new nursing staff members, contributing to a positive work environment and high-quality patient care.
  • Skillfully managed challenging patient situations using de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention strategies, and therapeutic communication skills.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in nursing care and emerging trends in healthcare delivery.
  • Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to the unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
  • Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injuries and illnesses.

Registered Nurse, Trauma Nurse, Holy Spirit Hospit

8 Years
Penn State Holy Spirit Medical Center | 09.2017 - 09.2025
  • Assessed patient conditions and prioritized nursing interventions across acute care settings.
  • Administered medications and monitored responses to ensure safe, timely treatment.
  • Collaborated with physicians and interdisciplinary teams to coordinate patient-centered care.
  • Monitored vital signs and identified changes requiring prompt clinical escalation.
  • Facilitated smooth transitions of care through thorough handoffs and discharge preparation.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans for complex patients with multiple comorbidities.
  • Served as a preceptor for nursing students during their clinical rotations, providing valuable real-world experience and guidance to foster professional growth.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in nursing care and emerging trends in healthcare delivery.
  • 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.
  • Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviors and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.
  • Recorded details regarding therapies to keep patient charts updated.
  • Performed frequent checks on life support equipment and made necessary adjustments to preserve optimal patient conditions.
  • Trained bedside staff on trauma workflow, emergency readiness, and protocol compliance.
  • Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.

Charge Nurse, Emergency Department, Holy Spirit MC

10 Years 6 Months
Penn State Holy Spirit Medical Center | 03.2015 - 09.2025
  • Assessed patient acuity and prioritized interventions to address changing clinical needs.
  • Coordinated bedside care with physicians, nurses, and ancillary staff to support treatment plans.
  • Monitored medication administration, documentation, and chart accuracy for compliance with standards.
  • Supervised daily patient assignments and adjusted staffing to maintain safe unit coverage.
  • Trained nursing staff on unit procedures, patient safety practices, and escalation protocols.
  • Resolved workflow issues quickly to keep admissions, transfers, and discharges moving efficiently.
  • Responded to urgent clinical situations and guided team actions during high-acuity events.
  • Coordinated nursing care on unit through staff assignments, assisting and rounding with physicians, monitoring patient orders, and communicating with ancillary departments.
  • Conducted daily shift briefs to inform staff of changes in patient care assignments.
  • Mentored and supervised junior nurses, fostering a supportive and professional work environment.
  • Collaborated with other healthcare professionals to provide quality patient care.
  • Served as a liaison between nursing staff, physicians, and management, fostering open communication channels among all parties involved in patient care.
  • Championed a positive work culture by recognizing exemplary performance from team members and addressing conflicts promptly when they arose.
  • Streamlined shift handovers, ensuring seamless continuity of care and minimizing information gaps.
  • Collaborated with leadership to devise initiatives for improving nursing satisfaction, retention and morale.
  • Managed unforeseen challenges with poise and adaptability, ensuring minimal disruption to event proceedings.
  • Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically-ill patients.
  • Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
  • Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injuries and illnesses.
  • Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.

Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Holy Spiri

11 Years 6 Months
Penn State Holy Spirit Medical Center | 03.2014 - 09.2025
  • Assessed patient conditions and prioritized nursing interventions using clinical judgment and physician orders.
  • Administered medications safely while monitoring responses and documenting changes in electronic medical records.
  • Coordinated interdisciplinary care plans with providers, therapists, and case management teams.
  • Educated patients and families on treatments, discharge instructions, and self-care practices.
  • Responded promptly to acute changes, stabilizing patients and escalating concerns appropriately.
  • Reinforced infection control practices and maintained compliance with hospital safety standards.
  • 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.
  • Assisted in the training and mentorship of new nursing staff members, contributing to a positive work environment and high-quality patient care.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans for complex patients with multiple comorbidities.
  • Served as a preceptor for nursing students during their clinical rotations, providing valuable real-world experience and guidance to foster professional growth.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in nursing care and emerging trends in healthcare delivery.
  • Implemented evidence-based fall prevention strategies, resulting in a significant decrease in patient falls within the unit.
  • Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
  • Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
  • Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
  • Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to the unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
  • Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
  • Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injuries and illnesses.
  • Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviors and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.

Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, CRMC

10 Years 1 Month
Carlisle Regional Medical Center | 11.2003 - 12.2013
  • Administered medications and IV therapies while maintaining accuracy, safety, and infection control standards.
  • Assessed patient conditions, documented changes, and escalated concerns to physicians for timely treatment decisions.
  • Supervised patient care plans, prioritizing acute needs and coordinating interventions with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Mentored nursing staff, reinforcing clinical protocols, documentation practices, and bedside care techniques.
  • Coordinated admissions, transfers, and discharges to support efficient patient flow across units.
  • Educated patients and families on treatment plans, medications, and recovery instructions.
  • Monitored vital signs, lab results, and symptoms to identify complications and adjust nursing interventions.
  • Prevented the spread of infections by consistently adhering to strict infection control protocols and educating patients on proper hygiene practices.
  • 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.
  • Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
  • Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
  • Equipped patients with tools and knowledge needed for speedy and sustained recovery.
  • Skillfully managed challenging patient situations using de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention strategies, and therapeutic communication skills.
  • Administered medications safely according to established guidelines while closely monitoring for side effects or adverse reactions requiring intervention.
  • 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.

Emergency Room Registered Nurse

4 Years 6 Months
McLoud Dillon Hospital & ER | 01.1998 - 07.2002
  • Triage emergency patients, prioritizing care based on acuity and clinical presentation.
  • Administered medications, IV therapies, and treatments while monitoring patient responses.
  • Coordinated care with physicians, technicians, and ancillary staff during high-volume shifts.
  • Documented assessments, interventions, and outcomes accurately in electronic medical records.
  • Stabilized critically ill patients through rapid response, resuscitation, and advanced nursing care.
  • Educated patients and families on discharge instructions, medications, and follow-up care.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Administered appropriate medications and treatments, ensuring accurate dosage and timely delivery for improved patient health.

Trauma ICU Nurse

3 Years 1 Month
Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network | 05.1994 - 06.1997
  • Assessed critically injured patients, prioritizing interventions for airway, hemodynamic, and neurological stability.
  • Monitored invasive lines, ventilators, and telemetry, responding quickly to acute changes in condition.
  • Administered titrated medications and blood products while maintaining strict medication safety and documentation accuracy.
  • Coordinated multidisciplinary care plans with surgeons, intensivists, respiratory therapy, and rehabilitation teams.
  • Educated families on trauma recovery, treatment expectations, and ICU equipment to support informed decision-making.
  • Documented assessments, interventions, and outcomes in electronic health records with precision and consistency.
  • Expedited critical decision-making processes during emergencies by effectively communicating with other healthcare professionals under high-pressure situations.
  • Reduced complications for critically ill patients through the implementation of individualized care plans based on each patient''s unique needs.
  • Enhanced patient care by efficiently assessing, monitoring, and documenting vital signs, lab results, and medical histories.
  • Collaborated with physicians to develop optimal treatment plans, resulting in faster recovery times for patients.
  • Improved communication between interdisciplinary teams by serving as a liaison to ensure accurate information exchange and seamless coordination of care.
  • Assisted physicians with procedures such as central line placement and chest tube insertion, ensuring accuracy and adherence to sterile techniques.
  • Observed patients' vital signs and administered physician-prescribed medications and treatments.
  • Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.

Registered Nurse, Medical-Surgical Unit

2 Years
Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network | 05.1992 - 05.1994
  • Assessed patient conditions, prioritized care plans, and coordinated interventions for complex medical-surgical caseloads.
  • Administered medications, monitored responses, and adjusted nursing actions based on changing clinical status.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to support safe discharge planning and continuity of care.
  • Educated patients and families on treatments, recovery expectations, and self-care instructions.
  • Documented assessments, interventions, and outcomes accurately in electronic health records.
  • Reinforced infection control, fall prevention, and quality standards across med-surg workflows.
  • Consistently maintained accurate documentation of patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes in accordance with regulatory requirements.
  • Skillfully performed venipuncture, IV insertion, and catheterizations, ensuring proper technique and adherence to infection control standards.
  • Provided health education to patients and families regarding discharge instructions and plans of care.
  • Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses.
  • Developed strong rapport with patients and families through active listening, empathy, and clear communication during challenging situations.
  • Demonstrated flexibility in managing multiple priorities concurrently during high-stress periods while maintaining a calm demeanor.
  • Started intravenous fluids, administered medications, and documented patient charts by recording food and fluid output and intake.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices within the field of medical-surgical nursing.
  • Effectively managed acute pain symptoms by administering medications as prescribed while monitoring for potential side effects.
  • Performed intravenous therapy procedures and monitored chest tubes.
  • Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
  • Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

Cedar Crest College | Allentown, PA | 05.1992

Skills

Licensed RN
Direct patient care
Critical care
Medication distribution
Documentation accuracy
Patient documentation
Care coordination
Crisis management
Decision-making
Advanced cardiac life support
Clinical leadership
Team leadership
Teamwork
Verbal and written communication
HIPAA compliance
Issue resolution

Certification

PALS

TNCC

Timeline

Staff Relief Charge Nurse, North Strand Emergency

Grand Strand Medical Center HCA
03.2026 - CurrentRead More

Registered Nurse, North Strand Emergency Room

Grand Strand Medical Center HCA
11.2025 - CurrentRead More

Registered Nurse, Trauma Nurse, Holy Spirit Hospit

Penn State Holy Spirit Medical Center
09.2017 - 09.2025Read More

Charge Nurse, Emergency Department, Holy Spirit MC

Penn State Holy Spirit Medical Center
03.2015 - 09.2025Read More

Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, Holy Spiri

Penn State Holy Spirit Medical Center
03.2014 - 09.2025Read More

Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, CRMC

Carlisle Regional Medical Center
11.2003 - 12.2013Read More

Emergency Room Registered Nurse

McLoud Dillon Hospital & ER
01.1998 - 07.2002Read More

Trauma ICU Nurse

Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network
05.1994 - 06.1997Read More

Registered Nurse, Medical-Surgical Unit

Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network
05.1992 - 05.1994Read More

Cedar Crest College

Bachelor of Science from Nursing
Read More
Sarah NavarroRN