Sherry Howard
Dayton,OH
Summary
APRN-certified Nurse Practitioner with expertise in Family Medicine. Proficient in patient and family education regarding the management of acute and chronic health conditions. Self-directed professional with superior problem-solving, communication and management skills. Successful in prioritizing tasks and organizing projects to improve the quality of patient care.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Family Nurse Practitioner
Providence Medical Group Inc
Dayton, OH
07.2022 - Current
- Monitored diet, physical activity, behaviors and other patient factors to assess conditions and adjust treatment plans.
- Explained treatment plan care, physician-ordered tests and medications to patients and family members or caregivers.
- Delivered primary care for patients and handled diagnosis, treatment, referral for consultation, or specialty services, follow-up care, evening urgent care call and on-call emergency consultation.
- Delivered information regarding care and medications to patients and caregivers in comprehendible terminology.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Educated patients about preventative healthcare measures including nutrition, exercise and lifestyle modification.
- Performed routine diagnostic tests such as laboratory work, EKGs, x-rays, ultrasounds and other imaging studies.
- Evaluated and treated sexually transmitted diseases.
- Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
- Identified abnormal and critical respiratory patterns through direct pulmonary assessments.
- Reviewed patient's medical history and laboratory data for abnormalities and completeness and delivered informed follow-up.
- Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
- Coordinated with healthcare team to establish, enact and evaluate patient care plans.
- Collaborated with health groups to plan or implement programs designed to improve overall health of communities.
- Performed physical exams, ordering and evaluating lab test as well as medications.
- Maintained accurate documentation in electronic medical records system according to established standards.
- Actively participated in quality improvement initiatives aimed at improving patient outcomes.
- Provided support to family members by offering guidance in understanding treatment options available for their loved ones.
- Managed referrals to specialists when necessary and followed up with results from referrals.
- Promoted health by advising patients about diet, hygiene and methods for prevention of disease.
- Built trust and rapport with patients by listening to concerns, advocating for wellness and educating on acute and chronic health issues.
- Counseled patients on health risks associated with smoking, obesity, stress management and addiction.
- Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
- Provided women's health services for contraception, reproductive concerns and family planning.
- Ensured compliance with HIPAA regulations regarding patient confidentiality.
- Operated in dual capacity, serving as clinician and manager of medical services.
- Facilitated communication between multidisciplinary teams in order to ensure continuity of care for patients.
- Developed tailored care plans for each patient in collaboration with physicians and healthcare team.
- Prescribed medications and monitored progress for effectiveness of treatments.
- Managed pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment of various disorders and diseases.
- Provided comprehensive primary care services to patients of all ages, including physical examinations, health assessments, and immunizations.
- Actively participated in interdisciplinary team meetings focused on improving patient outcomes.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Attended continuing education courses to stay current on best practices within the field of nursing.
- Provided direct supervision to nurse practitioners-in-training during clinical rotations.
- Prioritized and organized tasks to efficiently accomplish service goals.
- Offered preventive services such as well-child, adult and gynecological examinations.
- Understood and followed oral and written directions.
- Worked with cross-functional teams to achieve goals.
- Approached customers and engaged in conversation through use of effective interpersonal and people skills.
Registered Nurse
Miami Valley Hospital
Dayton, OH, OH
12.2019 - 01.2021
- Assist physicians in performing cardiac procedures that are used to diagnose and treat cardiac and vascular conditions
- Assess, monitor and intervene in cardiac situations.
- Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Updated charts throughout shifts with current, accurate information to maintain strict recordkeeping standards.
- Provided emotional support and comfort to families during difficult times.
- Maintained thorough, accurate and confidential documentation in electronic medical records.
- Coordinated with healthcare team to establish, enact and evaluate patient care plans.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Administered local, inhalation or intravenous anesthetics to patients undergoing procedures.
- Recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
- Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
Registered Nurse
Grandview Medical Center
Dayton, OH
04.2015 - 12.2019
- Emergency Department staff nurse responsible for direct patient care
- These responsibilities include direct care of the acute trauma, medical or psychiatric patient
- Communication with physicians, staff and family members.
- Cared for patients experiencing acute traumas, including cardiac arrests, strokes and gunshot wounds.
- Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
- Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
- Administered local, inhalation or intravenous anesthetics to patients undergoing procedures.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Performed diagnostic tests such as X-rays or lab work according to physician orders.
- Answered patient questions and provided take-home materials for further information.
- Delivered compassionate end-of-life care when needed according to established hospice guidelines.
- Upheld patient safety standards by preventing unauthorized access or incorrect dosage administration.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
- Supported criminal inquiries by reporting injuries and completing evidence collection kits.
- Monitored vital signs and other indicators of patient health status.
- Collaborated with health groups to plan or implement programs designed to improve overall health of communities.
- Responded quickly to codes and coordinated efficient and skilled care.
- Facilitated communication between physicians, nurses, technicians, therapists, social workers, family members and other healthcare providers.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
- Educated families about their loved ones' conditions and provided emotional support.
- Assisted in training new staff members on proper nursing protocols for emergency room operations.
Emergency Department/Quality Improvement Staff Nurse
Grandview Medical Center
Dayton, OH
08.2014 - 04.2015
- Within the emergency department my responsibilities include functioning as a staff nurse where I am responsible for providing emergency medical care to the sick and injured while maintaining the required education standards and representing Grandview Medical Center with a professional appearance and positive attitude
- In addition to these responsibilities I also assist the unit manager with meeting the requirements for HFAP standards, stroke center swallow screen compliance, appropriate documentation for the use of restraints by nurses and physicians through chart audits as well as representing the emergency department in various meetings when requested
- Within the Quality department I was responsible for inputting data from Grandview and Southview Hospitals into the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators (NDNQI)
- Additionally, I was provided with the opportunity to assist with several, Risk Cause Analysis, projects.
- Ensured compliance with applicable regulations relating to product safety and quality assurance.
- Identified and documented areas of quality improvement within the organization.
- Recommended changes based on findings from investigations or audits.
- Conducted research on best practices in quality control and management.
- Troubleshot product issues and fixed problems.
- Collaborated with internal stakeholders to develop solutions that meet organizational objectives.
- Evaluated current processes, procedures, and systems to identify opportunities for improvement.
Registered Nurse
United States Army Reserve
Cincinnati, OH
09.2009 - 02.2015
- Educate soldiers on the mission of the 256th Combat Support Hospital and develop individual training programs to support the mission
- Inspire, encourage and guide others toward mission accomplishment
- Lead others following the U.S Army core values of integrity, honor and respect.
- Medical Surgical registered nurse with additional identification as emergency room registered nurse
- Officer in charge of education specifically directed toward trauma readiness as well as sustainment training meeting the U.S
- Army standard of care for the critically wounded
- Develop training schedule to maintain soldier readiness, trauma training of critically wounded and preparations for air transport of the trauma patient
- Executive officer for the 256th ACO-Detachment unit
- Primary responsibilities include communication with the Officer platoon, serve as acting detachment commander when needed, run meetings and serve as a mentor to other officers and enlisted soldiers.
Trauma Program Manager
Grandview Medical Center
Dayton, OH
08.2012 - 06.2014
- As the Trauma Program Manager, I was responsible for coordinating the growth of Grandview Hospital into a Level III trauma center
- These responsibilities included education of staff nurses, physician and support personnel to work and communicate effectively as a team to optimize trauma patient care
- This process began with pre-hospital agencies and continued throughout the patient hospital stay
- With this position I arranged interdisciplinary team meetings, reviewed trauma patient chart audits, held discussions on patient care cases with physicians, provided trauma education to staff members, and achieved experience in development of hospital specific policies.
- Managed changes in integrated health care delivery systems and technological innovations while keeping focus on quality of care.
- Participated in professional development activities related to Trauma Program management.
- Implemented strategies designed to enhance patient safety during treatment.
- Analyzed operational data from various sources to identify areas of potential improvement or risk within the program.
- Planned and implemented programs for health care or medical facilities supporting personnel administration and training.
- Maintained records management system to process personnel information and produce reports.
- Coordinated performance improvement initiatives within the Trauma Program.
- Facilitated communication between medical staff, administration, and other key stakeholders involved in the delivery of trauma services.
- Assessed need for additional staff, equipment and services based on historical data and seasonal trends.
- Directed, supervised and evaluated medical, clerical or maintenance personnel.
Staff Nurse Specialist
Grandview Hospital
Dayton, Ohio
01.2007 - 08.2012
- Provides clinical leadership for all shifts within the emergency department under the guidance and supervision of the Clinical Nurse Manager/Director
- Accountable for the delivery of safe patient care according to the standards of patient care of Grandview Medical Center and the Ohio Board of Nursing
- Responsible for providing nursing education for the emergency department, provides in-service of procedures, products, and advances in care to staff
- Assists with unit orientation
- Assists director with managerial duties as delegated
- Performance Improvement chairperson within the emergency department
- Coordinate staff development by providing evidenced base practice educational opportunities to all staff members by following accreditation and hospital standards
- Education is provided utilizing various methods including email, poster board presentations as well as individual and group in services
- Charge nurse responsibilities include but are not limited to patient care; maintain safety within the emergency department, communications with physicians as well as staff, patients and family members of patients.
Staff Nurse
Green Memorial Hospital
Xenia, OH
10.2007 - 07.2008
- Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
- Implemented infection control measures to reduce the spread of contagious diseases.
- Ensured that all equipment was properly maintained according to safety protocols.
- Maintained a clean work environment by following proper sanitation guidelines.
- Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
- Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
- Coordinated care with charge nurse and other staff through daily communication.
- Recorded patients' medical history, vital statistics and test results in electronic medical records.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of nursing interventions and modified plans as needed.
- Provided direct patient care including wound dressing, administering medication and IV therapy.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Assessed patients to determine their physical condition, health status and needs.
- Maintained accurate records of patient progress notes, medications administered and other relevant data.
- Monitored vital signs and documented changes in a timely manner.
- Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
- Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
- Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Helping Hands Home Health Care
Cincinnati, OH
09.2005 - 11.2006
- Provided excellent home health care to infant with compromised airway (tracheostomy) with extremity deformity.
- Monitored airway, breathing.
- Preformed infant tracheal suctioning as needed.
- Maintained professional standards with family.
- Provide clear documentation and communication.
- Provide education and emotional support to parent.
- Communication with supervising physician on patient condition.
- Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of nursing interventions and modified plans as needed.
- Ensured that all equipment was properly maintained according to safety protocols.
- Evaluated patients to develop and update treatment plans while anticipating day-to-day needs.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Care Team Network
Cincinnati, OH
09.2004 - 09.2005
- Performed physical assessments, including vital signs and health history documentation.
- Worked as part of healthcare team to assess patient needs, plan and modify care and implement interventions.
- Answered patient calls, identified issues and determined how best to provide assistance within parameters established by facility and supervisor.
- Promoted culture of safety for patients and employees through proper identification, reporting documentation and prevention.
- Monitored vital signs, fluid intake and output levels, glucose levels, and other medical tests results.
- Evaluated nursing intervention outcomes by conferring with other healthcare team members.
- Documented patient medical histories, current symptoms and vitals.
- Monitored patient's respiration activity, blood pressure and blood glucose levels in response to medical administration.
- Coordinated with doctors and registered nurses to develop care plans for patients.
- Administered prescribed medications noting times and amounts on patient charts.
- Administered medications and treatments according to established protocols.
- Educated patients on disease prevention and management strategies for their individual conditions.
- Instructed patients on proper use of equipment such as wheelchairs or walkers.
- Measured and recorded patient height, weight and other vital signs.
- Maintained a safe environment by following infection control policies and procedures.
- Observed strict confidentiality and safeguarded all patient-related information.
- Provided emotional support to patients dealing with illness or injury related issues.
- Observed changes in patient's condition and reported any significant changes to the registered nurse or physician.
- Charted changes in patient conditions and discussed concerns with supervising healthcare provider.
- Administered medications and therapies in accordance with physicians orders.
- Collected and documented vital signs to track current patient conditions.
- Answered patients' calls to determine how to assist.
- Guaranteed exceptional care quality by correctly administering medication, inserting and caring for catheters, dressing and changing wounds and assisting with personal hygiene.
- Assisted patients with personal hygiene activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, grooming, and toileting needs.
- Communicated concerns regarding patients' status, care and environment to nursing supervisors, clinical care supervisors and case managers.
- Assessed patient complaints accurately and provided appropriate interventions.
- Ensured that all clinical documentation is accurate and up-to-date in the electronic medical record system.
- Provided behavioral and emotional support and closely supervised patients suffering from dementia and Alzheimer's.
- Completed day-to-day duties accurately and efficiently.
- Provided excellent service and attention to customers when face-to-face or through phone conversations.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Franklin Ridge Nursing Home
Franklin, OH
07.2001 - 01.2004
- Performed physical assessments, including vital signs and health history documentation.
- Educated clients, patients and caregivers on medical diagnoses, treatment options, chronic disease self-management and wound management.
- Counseled clients, patients and families and provided emotional and psychosocial support.
- Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings for coordination of patient care plans.
- Worked as part of healthcare team to assess patient needs, plan and modify care and implement interventions.
- Answered patient calls, identified issues and determined how best to provide assistance within parameters established by facility and supervisor.
- Promoted culture of safety for patients and employees through proper identification, reporting documentation and prevention.
- Monitored vital signs, fluid intake and output levels, glucose levels, and other medical tests results.
- Evaluated nursing intervention outcomes by conferring with other healthcare team members.
- Documented patient medical histories, current symptoms and vitals.
- Collaborated with physicians to develop individualized care plans for each patient.
- Monitored patient's respiration activity, blood pressure and blood glucose levels in response to medical administration.
- Coordinated with doctors and registered nurses to develop care plans for patients.
- Administered prescribed medications, noting times and amounts on patient charts.
- Communicated with patients with compassion while keeping medical information private.
- Conducted regular rounds to assess the status of assigned patients.
- Administered medications and treatments according to established protocols.
- Monitored infection control procedures to verify facility-wide health and safety.
- Measured and recorded patient height, weight and other vital signs.
- Assembled and used catheters, tracheotomy tubes or oxygen suppliers.
- Maintained a safe environment by following infection control policies and procedures.
- Coordinated scheduling of follow-up appointments with primary care providers.
- Charted changes in patient conditions and discussed concerns with supervising healthcare provider.
- Observed changes in patient's condition and reported any significant changes to the registered nurse or physician.
- Collaborated with multi-disciplinary staff to improve overall patient care and response times.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Facilitated referrals for specialty services when necessary.
- Prepared patients for examinations, tests or treatments and explained procedures.
- Administered medications and therapies in accordance with physicians orders.
- Collected and documented vital signs to track current patient conditions.
- Interviewed patients to obtain medical history.
- Prepared or examined food trays for conformance to prescribed diet.
- Answered patients' calls to determine how to assist.
- Guaranteed exceptional care quality by correctly administering medication, inserting and caring for catheters, dressing and changing wounds and assisting with personal hygiene.
- Assisted patients with personal hygiene activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, grooming, and toileting needs.
- Communicated effectively with patients, family members, healthcare team members, and other stakeholders regarding patient care plans or concerns.
- Assessed patient complaints accurately and provided appropriate interventions.
Education
FNP -
Indiana Wesleyan University
01.2024
BSN -
Indiana Wesleyan University
01.2010
LPN-RN program -
Rets School of nursing
01.2006
Licensed Practical Nurse program -
Butler County Joint Vocational School
01.2001
Paramedic program -
Butler County Joint Vocational School
01.1998
Skills
- Physical Assessments
- Physical Examinations
- Lab Result Evaluation
- Patient Communication
- Patient Education
- Diagnostic Screenings
- Electronic Health Records Systems
- Preventive Care
- Clinical Care Standards
- Laboratory Testing
- Written Communication
- Medication Administration
- Hospice Resources
- Family Education
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Staff Training
- Quality Assurance
- Diagnostic Testing
- Care Coordination
- Interpreting Laboratory Results
- Patient Assessment
- Medical Histories
- Electronic Medical Records
- Healthcare Management
- Treatment Planning
- Treatment Plan Development
- Therapeutic Intervention
- Medical Charting
- HIPAA Guidelines
Career Experience
- Miami Valley Hospital, Registered Nurse, Cardiac Cath Lab, 12/19, Present, Assist physicians in performing cardiac procedures that are used to diagnose and treat cardiac and vascular conditions. Assess, monitor and intervene in cardiac situations.
- Grandview Medical Center, Registered Nurse, Emergency Department, 4/15, 12/19, Responsible for direct patient care in the emergency department, including care of acute trauma, medical or psychiatric patients. Communication with physicians, staff, and family members.
- Grandview Medical Center, Emergency Department/Quality Improvement staff nurse, 8/14, 4/15, Functioning as a staff nurse in the emergency department. Assisting the unit manager with meeting requirements for HFAP standards, stroke center swallow screen compliance, appropriate documentation for the use of restraints, and representing the emergency department in various meetings. Inputting data into the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators (NDNQI) and assisting with Risk Cause Analysis projects.
- Grandview Hospital, Trauma Program Manager, 8/12, 6/14, Coordinating the growth of Grandview Hospital into a Level III trauma center. Educating staff nurses, physicians, and support personnel to work effectively as a team in trauma patient care. Arranging interdisciplinary team meetings, reviewing trauma patient chart audits, providing trauma education, and developing hospital-specific policies.
- United States Army Reserve, Registered Nurse, 9/09, 2/15, Educating soldiers on the mission of the 256th Combat Support Hospital, developing individual training programs, and leading others following the U.S. Army core values. Medical Surgical registered nurse with additional identification as emergency room registered nurse. Officer in charge of trauma readiness training and preparations for air transport of trauma patients. Executive officer for the 256th ACO-Detachment unit.
- Grandview Hospital, Staff Nurse Specialist, Emergency Department, 1/07, 8/12, Providing clinical leadership for all shifts within the emergency department. Accountable for safe patient care, nursing education, unit orientation, and managerial duties. Performance Improvement chairperson within the emergency department.
Affiliations
- Active member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.
- Clinical practice committee member with Providence Medical Group.
- I enjoy fishing, camping and boating with my husband, family and friends.
Accomplishments
- Preceptor for nurse practitioner students.
- Army Achievement Medal.
- Sigma Theta Tau, Masters and Bachelor's Nursing Program.
- Recognition as a Network Star, August, 2017 and April, 2010
- Perfect attendance during LPN program.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Family Nurse Practitioner
Providence Medical Group Inc
07.2022 - Current
Registered Nurse
Miami Valley Hospital
12.2019 - 01.2021
Registered Nurse
Grandview Medical Center
04.2015 - 12.2019
Emergency Department/Quality Improvement Staff Nurse
Grandview Medical Center
08.2014 - 04.2015
Trauma Program Manager
Grandview Medical Center
08.2012 - 06.2014
Registered Nurse
United States Army Reserve
09.2009 - 02.2015
Staff Nurse
Green Memorial Hospital
10.2007 - 07.2008
Staff Nurse Specialist
Grandview Hospital
01.2007 - 08.2012
Licensed Practical Nurse
Helping Hands Home Health Care
09.2005 - 11.2006
Licensed Practical Nurse
Care Team Network
09.2004 - 09.2005
Licensed Practical Nurse
Franklin Ridge Nursing Home
07.2001 - 01.2004
FNP -
Indiana Wesleyan University
BSN -
Indiana Wesleyan University
LPN-RN program -
Rets School of nursing
Licensed Practical Nurse program -
Butler County Joint Vocational School
Paramedic program -
Butler County Joint Vocational School
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