Results-driven nurse with a strong background in interdisciplinary collaboration and patient education. Skilled in active listening and problem-solving, consistently contributing to effective treatment outcomes and supportive environments for patients and their families.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
3
3
Certifications
Work History
Acute Inpatient Mental Health Alt Night Charge
C.W. Bill Young VA Medical Center
Bay Pines, FL
08.2015 - Current
Monitored patient responses post-medication administration to ensure safety and efficacy.
Evaluated mental health needs through comprehensive assessments to determine appropriate interventions.
Partnered with interdisciplinary teams to create and execute customized treatment plans.
Provided education to patients and families regarding coping strategies and mental health resources.
Documented observations, interventions and concerns in patient charts and electronic systems, sustaining continuum of care from admission through to discharge.
Created safe and supportive therapeutic milieu to promote recovery.
Ensured compliance with all relevant laws governing the practice of mental health nursing.
Conducted independent risk assessment for self-directed violence, analyzing risk factors, protective factors, mental status and current triggers.
Assisted individuals experiencing acute episodes of severe depression or anxiety by utilizing various therapeutic techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy or dialectical behavior therapy.
Achieved departmental goals and objectives by instituting new processes and standards for in-patient care.
Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
Behavioral Health / Dual Diagnosis Unit RN
Windmoor Healthcare
Clearwater, Florida
11.2010 - 08.2015
Administered medications and monitored patient reactions in mental health settings.
Conducted comprehensive patient assessments and consistently documented behavioral health histories.
Facilitated therapeutic group sessions to promote patient engagement and support.
Implemented crisis intervention protocols to ensure patient safety and well-being.
Monitored medication effectiveness, side effects, and educated patients on proper usage.
Established trusting relationships with clients while upholding professional boundaries.
Collaborated with psychiatrists, psychologists, and healthcare professionals to deliver quality patient care.
Maintained accurate electronic health records using industry-standard systems.
Behavioral Health Charge Nurse
Largo Medical Center
Largo, Florida
10.2008 - 10.2010
Administered medications prescribed by a psychiatrist according to established protocols.
Assessed, evaluated, and monitored patients' physical and mental health conditions to determine nursing care needs.
Implemented evidence-based and best practice problem-solving interventions to establish protective measures for suicide prevention and self-harm.
Educated patients about their diagnosis and available treatment options including psychotherapy or medication regimens.
Documented observations, interventions and concerns in patient charts and electronic systems, sustaining continuum of care from admission through to discharge.
Conducted independent risk assessment for self-directed violence, analyzing risk factors, protective factors, mental status and current triggers.
Supervised activities of daily living such as eating meals, bathing, dressing appropriately, and managing money responsibly for hospitalized psychiatric patients.
Medical Surgical Registered Nurse
Hahnemann University Hospital
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
07.2007 - 09.2008
Administered medications and treatments in accordance with hospital protocols and care plans.
Documented patient assessments and care activities accurately in electronic medical records.
Monitored vital signs and administered intravenous fluids, medications, and blood transfusions per physician orders.
Assessed patients for medical condition signs and reported changes to physicians promptly.
Provided emotional support to patients and families by actively listening to concerns.
Performed wound care, including dressing changes, debridement, and irrigation while monitoring healing progress.
Participated in quality improvement initiatives to enhance nursing services within the hospital.
Maintained a safe environment for patients by following policies on medication administration and infection control.
Residential Coordinator
Horizon House Inc
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
09.2004 - 07.2007
Conducted individual counseling sessions to aid client recovery.
Educated clients on substance abuse and coping strategies.
Maintained accurate documentation of client interactions and treatment plans.
Advocated for client needs within community support networks.
Provided crisis intervention services as necessary.
Identified behaviors linked to substance abuse and recognized signs of intoxication.
Supported clients through withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety and depression.
Collaborated with healthcare professionals to coordinate comprehensive care for clients.
Assistant Director
York Facility; Division of Minsec Corrections Corp
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
05.2003 - 01.2004
Supervised daily operations to ensure adherence to correctional standards.
Developed strategic plans to enhance facility security and safety measures.
Led crisis management initiatives during emergencies within facility environment.
Coordinated staff training programs to boost employee performance and development.
Managed daily workflow by assigning tasks, tracking progress, and providing assistance.
Evaluated staff performance regularly, delivering constructive feedback for improvement.
Facilitated interdepartmental communication to streamline operational processes.
Oversaw recruitment process, including interviewing candidates and onboarding new hires.
Clinical Supervisor
Luzern Tx Ctr; Division of MinSec Corrections Corp
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
10.2001 - 05.2003
Supervised clinical staff to ensure adherence to treatment protocols and regulatory standards.
Developed training programs for new personnel in correctional healthcare settings.
Implemented evidence-based practices to enhance clinical outcomes.
Provided mentorship and guidance to junior clinical staff for professional development.
Facilitated interdisciplinary communication regarding patient care issues among healthcare team members.
Reviewed case notes to ensure compliance with regulations and standards of care.
Participated in quality improvement initiatives to improve client outcomes at the facility.
Investigated complaints from clients and families concerning care or treatment received.
Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Luzern Treatment Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
04.2000 - 10.2001
Conducted individual counseling sessions addressing substance use issues.
Facilitated group therapy workshops promoting peer support and engagement.
Monitored client progress, adjusting treatment strategies as necessary.
Educated clients on coping strategies and relapse prevention techniques.
Maintained accurate documentation of client interactions and treatment progress.
Provided crisis intervention support during emergencies or critical situations.
Led psycho-educational groups on detox, withdrawal, medications, and recovery resources.
Ensured compliance of clinical documentation with state regulations and best practices.
Clinical Therapist/ Intake Coordinator
Parkside Recovery; Div of Northwestern Human Serv
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
09.1995 - 04.2000
Developed personalized treatment plans for diverse client populations.
Conducted individual therapy sessions addressing client mental health needs.
Implemented evidence-based therapeutic techniques to support client progress.
Provided crisis intervention services in high-pressure situations.
Offered individual counseling to individuals and family members to help work through depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Responded effectively in crisis situations to deliver skilled support and stabilize situations.
Provided referrals to community resources such as housing assistance programs or vocational rehabilitation services.
Coached clients on self-advocacy strategies for managing symptoms associated with their diagnosis.
Compiled detailed picture of past trauma and medical histories through well-orchestrated interviews.
Coordinated with other healthcare professionals to ensure continuity of care for clients.
Monitored client's progress towards goals set within the treatment plan.
Advised patients on medication compliance and monitored changes in behavior or emotional state due to medications prescribed by psychiatrists or primary care physicians.
Incorporated different treatment methodologies and evidence-based practices to meet clients' specific needs.
Evaluated clients' interests, abilities and needs alongside clinical presentations to develop targeted treatment plans.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Nursing
Community College of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, PA
05-2007
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Rider University
Lawrenceville, NJ
05-1988
Skills
Patient assessment
Medication administration
Crisis intervention
Risk assessment
Treatment planning
Interdisciplinary collaboration
Healthcare documentation
Client advocacy
Active listening
Organizational skills
Customer service
Excellent communication
Multitasking
Analytical and critical thinking
Problem-solving
Therapeutic techniques
Evidence-based practices
Certification
Registered Nurse, Florida Board of Nursing, Expires July 31, 2026
Timeline
Acute Inpatient Mental Health Alt Night Charge
C.W. Bill Young VA Medical Center
08.2015 - Current
Behavioral Health / Dual Diagnosis Unit RN
Windmoor Healthcare
11.2010 - 08.2015
Behavioral Health Charge Nurse
Largo Medical Center
10.2008 - 10.2010
Medical Surgical Registered Nurse
Hahnemann University Hospital
07.2007 - 09.2008
Residential Coordinator
Horizon House Inc
09.2004 - 07.2007
Assistant Director
York Facility; Division of Minsec Corrections Corp
05.2003 - 01.2004
Clinical Supervisor
Luzern Tx Ctr; Division of MinSec Corrections Corp
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