Sonja Johnson
Columbus,GA
Summary
Healthcare professional with extensive experience in longterm care nursing leadership and patient care. Known for strong focus on team collaboration and achieving impactful results. Expertise in policy development, staff training, and adaptable to changing healthcare needs.
Overview
45
45
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Nurses(Retired)
Hospital Authority of Columbus Ga
09.2003 - 01.2025
- Guided nursing staff in delivering high-quality patient care through effective communication and collaboration.
- Developed and implemented strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency within nursing departments.
- Mentored and trained nursing leadership, fostering professional development and improving team performance.
- Reviewed and analyzed the nursing departments' metrics to identify areas for improvement, driving continuous quality enhancement efforts.
- Worked with interdisciplinary teams to establish comprehensive care plans tailored to individual patient needs.
- Facilitated ongoing education programs for nursing staff, promoting evidence-based practice and skill advancement.
- Initiated new programs targeting specific health concerns within the community, improving overall population health outcomes.
- Improved patient care by implementing evidence-based nursing practices and developing comprehensive care plans.
- Mentored nurse graduates and nurses new to the longterm setting through one-on-one coaching sessions, fostering professional development and growth.
- Worked closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure seamless transitions between various facilities and departments.
- Ensured compliance with regulatory standards by conducting thorough audits and making necessary improvements.
- Implemented infection control policies that significantly reduced facility - acquired infections among patients under our care.
- Enhanced staff performance through regular training, evaluations, and constructive feedback sessions.
- Evaluated existing policies and procedures regularly to adapt them according to changing medical regulations.
- Participated in management team meetings to discuss resident status, census changes, and resident complaints or concerns.
- Monitored and evaluated nursing staff performance, providing feedback and guidance to support standards of care.
- Performed rounds to observe care and interview staff, residents, and families.
- Oversaw and approved recruitment, hiring and orientation of new nursing staff.
- Worked with staff, management, and external groups to coordinate patient care.
- Developed and maintained positive working relationships with physicians and staff to support seamless healthcare operations.
- Established and monitored infection control programs to provide safe, sanitary environment to prevent transmission of disease and infection.
- Collaborated closely with administration to develop and implement best practices to improve patient outcomes.
- Identified department issues to recommend corrective actions.
- Developed and executed strategic goals for the nursing department, aligning with organizational objectives.
- Built key performance indicators to measure nursing team success and identify areas for improvement.
- Fostered strong relationships with patients' and families through effective communication strategies and empathetic support systems.
- Conducted routine facility inspections, identifying areas needing improvement and eliminating hazards posed to staff and residents for continued compliance with associated regulations.
Assistant Director of Nursing
Hospital Authority of Columbus Georgia
08.2001 - 09.2003
- Facilitated staff training programs to enhance clinical competencies and improve patient care standards.
- Developed and implemented nursing protocols to ensure compliance with healthcare regulations and best practices.
- Worked with multidisciplinary teams to develop optimal patient outcomes and streamline care delivery processes.
- Mentored nursing staff, fostering professional growth and enhancing team cohesion within dynamic healthcare environments.
- Reviewed and analyzed patient care data to identify trends, driving initiatives for quality improvement and operational efficiency.
- Led initiatives for infection control measures, significantly reducing hospital-acquired infections through targeted strategies.
- Worked alongside staff, management, and external groups to coordinate patient care.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop efficient care strategies tailored to individual patient needs.
- Mentored new nurses in clinical practice and procedures, fostering a supportive learning environment.
- Assisted in developing policies and procedures for safe medication administration, minimizing errors within the department.
- Served as a role model for nursing staff by demonstrating exceptional clinical skills, ethical behavior, and commitment to continuous learning.
- Enhanced staff performance through regular training sessions and professional development opportunities.
- Coordinated with physicians on complex cases, ensuring seamless communication among healthcare professionals involved in patient care.
- Encouraged a culture of teamwork by encouraging open communication among staff members and encouraging collaboration across departments.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing overall service delivery within the facility.
- Implemented infection control measures, reducing facility - acquired infections significantly over time.
- Played a key role in attaining high patient satisfaction scores by consistently delivering compassionate care and addressing concerns promptly.
- Developed comprehensive care plans for patients, ensuring optimal health outcomes and patient satisfaction.
- Encouraged adherence to safety guidelines for both patients and staff members during all aspects of clinical operations.
- Provided educational resources on disease prevention and health maintenance topics to help patients make informed decisions about their care.
- Prepared and reviewed infection control surveillance reports to identify trends and develop effective actions to control and prevent infections.
- Built and maintained positive working relationships with physicians and staff to support seamless healthcare operations.
- Worked closely administration to develop and implement best practices to improve patient outcomes.
- Facilitated continuing education and training programs to drive staff competency and professional development.
- Monitored and inspected staff processes to eliminate hazards posed for both residents and staff while ensuring continuous compliance with regulations.
- Communicated with patients, ensuring that medical information was kept private.
- Reviewed medical histories with patients in effort to provide most effective medical advice.
- Defined testing protocols, quality assurance initiatives and clinic policies and procedures.
- Participated in management team meetings to discuss resident status, census changes, and resident complaints or concerns.
- Monitored and evaluated nursing staff performance, providing feedback and guidance to support standards of care.
- Rounding to observe care and interview staff, residents, and families.
- Identified department issues to recommend corrective actions.
- Conducting routine facility inspections, identifying areas needing improvement and eliminating hazards posed to staff and residents for continued compliance with associated regulations.
Nurse Manager
Hospital Authority of Columbus, Ga
06.1992 - 08.2001
- Led nursing staff to improve patient care standards and operational efficiency.
- Developed and implemented training programs for nursing personnel to enhance skills and performance.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate patient treatment plans and optimize outcomes.
- Oversaw compliance with healthcare regulations, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards.
- Review workflow processes to identify areas for improvement, resulting in better service delivery.
- Mentored grad nurses and nurses new to longterm care fostering professional development and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
- Led staff meetings to keep team informed of departmental changes and provide opportunities for nurses to share ideas and concerns.
- Completed performance evaluations and provided constructive feedback to support professional growth of nursing staff members.
- Trained new nurses and nurses new to the longterm care setting in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop individualized care plans for patients with complex needs.
- Supervised, directed, and motivated high-quality performance from nursing staff.
- Encouraged open communication among nursing staff through regular team meetings, promoting collaboration.
- Ensured regulatory compliance by maintaining accurate records and staying up-to-date on industry standards.
- Served as a key point of contact between nursing staff, physicians, administration, families and other healthcare professionals.
- Investigated and independently resolved complaints from staff, physicians, patients , and families by leveraging clinical judgment and unit management expertise.
- Improved patient satisfaction scores by fostering a team-oriented environment among nursing staff.
- Promoted a culture of safety within the department, conducting regular risk assessments and addressing potential hazards promptly.
- Promoted professional development opportunities to encourage nurses to pursue continuous training.
- Oversaw infection control procedures to protect patients from infections and keep nursing departments compliant with state regulations.
- Advocated for patients'' rights and ethical considerations in all aspects of care delivery.
- Established strong relationships with patients'' families, providing support and education throughout the treatment process.
- Worked at least [16] hours per month as floor nurse to maintain clinical proficiency.
- Developed comprehensive training programs for new hires, ensuring quality care and consistency in nursing practices.
- 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 unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
- Investigated and resolved issues affecting hospital operations and patient care.
- Led teams in driving successful patient outcomes by prioritizing standard of care and best practices.
- Sustained quality standards by performing routine medication audits and upholding internal and industry best practices.
- Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
- Offered exceptional care and support to individuals recovering from acute incidents and dealing with chronic conditions.
- Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
- Facilitated therapeutic communication, conflict resolution and crisis intervention by redirecting negative behaviors and helping patients regain or improve coping abilities.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Delivered high level of quality care to diverse populations while overseeing patient admission and triaging based on acuity and appropriate department admission.
- Observed and documented patient factors such as diets, physical activity levels, and behaviors to understand conditions and effectively modify treatment plans.
- Recorded details regarding therapies to keep patient charts updated.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
- Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviors and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.
- Equipped patients with tools and knowledge needed for speedy and sustained recovery.
- Reported findings to quality departments after conducting routine restraint audits and worked with team to devise corrective actions for deficiencies.
- Implemented care plans for patient treatment after assessing physician medical regimens.
- Conveyed treatment options, diagnosis information and home care techniques to patients and caregivers to continue care consistency.
- Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically-ill patients.
Nurses Service Assistant
Hospital Authority of Columbus Georgia
09.1985 - 06.1992
- Provided customer service support, addressing patient inquiries and resolving issues efficiently.
- Assisted healthcare professionals by preparing necessary materials for patient care and treatment procedures.
- Coordinated scheduling of appointments, ensuring timely access to services for patients.
- Maintained accurate records in electronic health systems, promoting data integrity and compliance.
- Trained new staff on operational procedures, enhancing team performance and service delivery.
- Maintained a clean and organized work area, contributing to an efficient and professional atmosphere within the department.
- Resolved client inquiries and issues, maintaining a high level of professionalism and courtesy.
- Assisted team members in improving workflow efficiency by sharing best practices.
- Enhanced overall customer experience with prompt attention to detail and diligent follow-up on pending tasks.
- Adapted quickly to changing circumstances within the workplace, demonstrating flexibility and resilience in response to challenges faced during daily operations.
- Developed strong relationships with customers through exceptional communication skills, leading to increased loyalty and repeat business.
- Managed multiple priorities effectively under tight deadlines, resulting in successful completion of assigned tasks.
- Supported company growth by consistently meeting or exceeding performance targets within the department.
- Improved customer satisfaction by providing timely and efficient service assistance.
- Ensured compliance with company policies and industry regulations, protecting both clients'' interests and the organization''s reputation.
- Checked dining area supplies of linens, wrapped silverware, and replenished low stock.
- Delivered entrees and platters of food to patrons in support of wait staff.
- Managed customer deliveries and assisted with carrying out orders to promote maximum satisfaction.
- Maintained accurate records of service requests, allowing for better tracking and resolution of issues.
- Provided exceptional support for various departments, ensuring smooth daily operations.
- Conducted regular inventory checks and restocked items as needed, ensuring product availability for customers.
- Wiped down kitchen counters and used sanitizing products to remove grime.
- Assisted in training new staff, ensuring they were well-prepared to meet service standards.
- Enhanced customer loyalty with personalized service and attention to detail.
- Conducted regular checks to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, maintaining safe environment for all.
- Boosted team morale and efficiency through regular communication and feedback sessions.
- Maintained clean and organized workspace, contributing to pleasant environment for customers and staff.
- Reduced downtime by maintaining equipment, ensuring services were always available when needed.
- Answered customer questions about food and beverage items and assisted with menu selections.
- Assisted with bussing tables and cleaning up spills.
- Monitored dining room and bar areas for signs of overcrowding.
- Monitored food and beverage supplies, assisting with restocking when needed.
- Provided attentive service and proactively assessed guest needs.
Certified Nursing Assistant
Hospital Authority of Columbus Georgia
05.1980 - 09.1985
- Provided direct patient care, assisting with daily activities and ensuring comfort and safety.
- Monitored vital signs, documenting changes and reporting concerns to nursing staff promptly.
- Assisted in the implementation of care plans, supporting patients' physical and emotional needs effectively.
- Trained new staff on proper patient handling techniques and hospital procedures to enhance team efficiency.
- Maintained a clean, safe environment by sanitizing surfaces, changing linens, and disposing of waste properly.
- Answered call lights and supported patient comfort and safety by adjusting bed rails and equipment.
- Promoted good oral and personal hygiene by aiding patients with shaving, bathing, and teeth brushing.
- Prevented pressure ulcers development through frequent turning, repositioning of patients, and diligent skin assessments.
- Assisted with feeding and monitored intake to help patients achieve nutritional objectives.
- Offered immediate assistance in emergency and routine paging situations to evaluate needs and deliver care.
- Cared for clients with diagnoses such as respiratory failure, diabetes, Parkinson's disease and muscular dystrophy.
- Supported ambulation and physical therapy needs by conducting planned exercise routines.
- Oversaw and maintained patients' rooms, group living areas, and nurse stations.
- Evaluated patients to identify and address wounds, behavioral concerns, and medically relevant symptoms.
- Helped clean and prepare patient consultation rooms to maintain hygiene standards
- Provided emotional and psychological support to patients and their families, fostering positive healthcare experience.
Education
Associate of Science - Nursing
Columbus College
Columbus, GA06-1992
Skills
- Nursing management
- Clinical expertise
- Clinical documentation
- Quality improvement
- Ethical practice
- Staff evaluation
- Professional development
- Behavioral health
- Mentoring and coaching
- Long-term care
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Clinical system monitoring
Affiliations
Chi Eta Phi Nursing Sorority -Kappa Chi Chapter
Faithful MIssionary Baptist Church . Phenix City , Ala.
Georgia Nurses Association
American Nurses Association
Certification
I currently do not hold any certiications.
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Director of Nurses(Retired)
Hospital Authority of Columbus Ga
09.2003 - 01.2025
Assistant Director of Nursing
Hospital Authority of Columbus Georgia
08.2001 - 09.2003
Nurse Manager
Hospital Authority of Columbus, Ga
06.1992 - 08.2001
Nurses Service Assistant
Hospital Authority of Columbus Georgia
09.1985 - 06.1992
Certified Nursing Assistant
Hospital Authority of Columbus Georgia
05.1980 - 09.1985
Associate of Science - Nursing
Columbus College