SHAWNA L. MCKINSTRY
Fairbanks,USA
Summary
As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am dedicated to providing patient-centered, evidence-based care that addresses the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of mental health. I see my role not only as a clinician but also as an advocate, educator, and partner in recovery—enabling patients to actively participate. My professional philosophy is based on the conviction that every individual possesses inherent dignity, resilience, and the capacity for growth.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Registered Nurse Manager
Behavioral Health of Alaska
12.2025 - Current
- Supervised nursing staff to ensure compliance with best practices and regulatory standards.
- Developed and implemented patient care protocols to enhance treatment outcomes.
- Conducted performance evaluations to identify staff development needs and improve team efficiency.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to create holistic treatment plans for patients.
- Led clinical teams to improve patient care and operational efficiency.
- Developed and implemented training programs for nursing staff.
- Streamlined workflow processes to enhance patient outcomes.
- Conducted performance evaluations to ensure compliance with healthcare standards.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to establish best practices in care delivery.
Operating Room Circulator Nurse and PERI Operative Nurse
Surgery Center of Fairbanks
Fairbanks, AK
06.2024 - Current
- Verify patient identity, confirm the surgical site and patients understanding of the procedure, and ensure consent has been signed by the patient and physician. Advocate the needs of the patient.
- Maintain strict aseptic techniques and ensure AORN guidelines are followed by the operating room team to help prevent potential post-operative infection.
- Oversee surgical instruments, supplies, and equipment are in good working order. Perform surgical count before, during and after of sharps and instruments.
- Accurate documentation of the surgical procedure, the team members involved, and any complications that may have occurred.
- Effective communication among the operating room team along with the per-operative and recovery room nurses.
- Ensure patient safety by monitoring patient vital signs, performing a Time Out and confirming correct patient, correct surgery, correct site, and addressing any concerns promptly with surgeon and operative room team.
Emergency Room Registered Nurse BSN
Fairbanks Memorial Hospital
Fairbanks, AK
02.2024 - 05.2024
- Enhanced patient care by conducting thorough assessments and promptly addressing critical needs.
- Streamlined emergency room operations by efficiently triaging patients according to severity of their condition.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams for optimal patient outcomes during high-stress situations.
- Facilitated clear communication with patients, families, and colleagues, fostering a positive environment in a fast-paced setting.
- Administration of appropriate medications and treatments, ensuring accurate dosage and timely delivery for improved patient health.
- Reduced waiting times by swiftly completing documentation and communicating effectively with medical staff.
- Expedited treatment plans by interpreting diagnostic tests accurately and collaborating with physicians on appropriate interventions.
- Educating patients and families on post-discharge care instructions, promoting adherence to prescribed regimens for improved health outcomes at home.
Education
Masters of PMHNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Wilkes University
Wilkes-Barre, PA12-2025
Bachelor of Science - Bachelors of Science in Nursing
Nightingale College
Ogden, UT12-2023
Skills
- Patient-Focused Care
- Emergency Patient Triage
- Medication reconciliation
- Hipaa Compliance
- Patient Advocacy
- Case Management
- Patient discharge teaching/education
- Emergency Response Coordination
- Emergency-Critical Care
- Cardiac Arrest Response team
- Clinical leadership
- Compassionate care
- Clinical assessment
- Quality improvement
- Nursing expertise
- Ethical practice
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Patient education and advocacy
- Strong clinical judgment
- Workload management
- Task delegation
Affiliations
- Alpha Beta Xi Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society
- Lions Club
- Alaska Nurse Practitioner Association, Treasurer
Certification
- Emergency Nurses Pediatric Course exp. May 2028
- ACLS & PALS exp. June 2026
- Basic Life Support (BLS) exp. June 2026
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) exp. September 2026
- AORN certification achieved June 2025
Timeline
Registered Nurse Manager
Behavioral Health of Alaska
12.2025 - Current
Operating Room Circulator Nurse and PERI Operative Nurse
Surgery Center of Fairbanks
06.2024 - Current
Emergency Room Registered Nurse BSN
Fairbanks Memorial Hospital
02.2024 - 05.2024
Masters of PMHNP - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Wilkes University
Bachelor of Science - Bachelors of Science in Nursing
Nightingale College
Awards
- American Association of the University of Women Scholarship Recipient March 2019
- State of Alaska Department of Transportation Scholarship Recipient- year- 2021, 2022, 2023
Interdisciplinary & Community Activities
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Evaluations
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Accomplishments
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Presentations
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