Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
CLINICAL EXPERIENCE: DUKE UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL
SKILLS
VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES
AWARDS
Timeline
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Sophia L. Zhao

Carlsbad

Summary

BSN student at Duke University seeking an ICU RN role with clinical experience across acute, long-term, and outpatient settings. Known for adaptability and strong communication skills. Eager to learn, receptive to feedback, and driven by a strong work ethic.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

CTICU Nurse Shadow

Duke Hospital
10.2025 - 11.2025
  • Assisted in care of lung transplant and cardiac surgery patients requiring CRRT, chest tubes, arterial lines, and central venous ports
  • Administered NG tube, oral, IM, transdermal, subcutaneous, and IVPB medications under RN supervision
  • Observed hemodynamic monitoring, ventilator management, and post-transplant care

Patient Care Assistant

Scripps Mercy Hospital
10.2023 - 12.2024
  • Delivered direct care to critically ill patients in a high-acuity surgical and medical ICU setting.
  • Monitored vital signs, assisted with mobility, hygiene, and positioning, and escalated acute status changes to the nursing team for rapid intervention.
  • Participated in codes and rapid responses, supporting RNs in the care of patients with multi-organ failure and hemodynamic instability.
  • Collaborated with nurses in managing mechanically ventilated and post-operative patients, strengthening skills in clinical observation, prioritization, and teamwork under pressure.

Certified Nurse Assistant

The Pavilion
08.2022 - 08.2024
  • Provided daily care to residents in a long-term care setting, assisting with activities of daily living, mobility, and comfort.
  • Monitored vital signs and promptly reported status changes to the nursing team for timely intervention.
  • Collaborated with an interdisciplinary team to uphold safety, dignity, and quality of life for residents requiring ongoing skilled nursing care.

Medical Assistant

Torrey Pines Dermatology
05.2022 - 08.2022
  • Established and maintained sterile surgical fields and assisted providers during outpatient procedures.
  • Educated patients on post-operative and wound care to promote healing and prevent complications.
  • Maintained accurate EMR documentation and upheld strict infection prevention and aseptic protocols.

Education

Bachelor’s of Science - Nursing

Duke University
Durham, North Carolina
05.2026

Bachelor’s of Science - Psychology

University of California San Diego
La Jolla, California
03.2024

Skills

  • BLS, CPR
  • In progress: CNA, NIH Stroke Scale

CLINICAL EXPERIENCE: DUKE UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

  • ICU Preceptorship (to be completed 4th semester, 192 hours)
  • Cardiology Unit (180 hours) Duke University Hospital
    Conducted cardiac-focused assessments, monitored telemetry for CHF, MI, and arrhythmias, escalated acute status changes, and reinforced patient and family education on disease management.
  • Medical-Surgical Oncology Unit (96 hours) Duke Raleigh Hospital
    Cared for adults with post-operative complications and chronic illnesses, performing head-to-toe assessments, administering IV medications, managing wounds and drains, and collaborating with the care team to prioritize multiple patients safely.
  • Labor & Delivery Unit (120 hours) Duke University Hospital
    Monitored high-risk laboring patients, observed epidural placements and cesarean sections, assisted during emergency responses, and supported families through delivery and postpartum recovery.

SKILLS

Chinese (Mandarin)
Spanish

VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES

Preventive Health Screening VolunteerMay 2024 – August 2024

  • Conducted blood pressure and A1C screenings, provided culturally sensitive health education, and distributed bilingual (English/Mandarin) handouts to promote health literacy.
  • Supported preventive care initiatives through patient-centered service and interdisciplinary collaboration with healthcare professionals.

Student TutorJuly 2018 – October 2023

  • Tutored and mentored peers in high school, college, and nursing school across a variety of subjects, adapting explanations to individual learning styles.
  • Facilitated individual and group study sessions, providing ongoing support for nursing classmates preparing for exams and clinical coursework.
  • Strengthened communication, teaching, and collaboration skills while fostering academic success and confidence among students.

American Red Cross — Biomedical Services Unit, Carlsbad, CAJuly 2021 – October 2021

  • Educated diverse community members on infection control and COVID-19 mitigation strategies during the pandemic.
  • Promoted public health awareness and ensured compliance with safety and hygiene protocols in clinical and community settings.

AWARDS

NU-AGE-SIM Scholarship: Recognized for excellence in geriatric nursing simulation and dedication to underserved/rural populations.

Timeline

CTICU Nurse Shadow

Duke Hospital
10.2025 - 11.2025

Patient Care Assistant

Scripps Mercy Hospital
10.2023 - 12.2024

Certified Nurse Assistant

The Pavilion
08.2022 - 08.2024

Medical Assistant

Torrey Pines Dermatology
05.2022 - 08.2022

Bachelor’s of Science - Psychology

University of California San Diego

Bachelor’s of Science - Nursing

Duke University