Tara Nelson
Northern Cambria,PA
Summary
Dynamic Registered Nurse with extensive experience at the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, excelling in patient-centered care and clinical accountability. Proven ability to enhance patient outcomes through effective care planning and health education. Strong leadership skills complemented by a commitment to quality improvement and ethical standards in nursing practice.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Registered Nurse
Pennsylvania Department Of Corrections
12.2020 - Current
- Delivers comprehensive nursing care to incarcerated individuals, including vital signs monitoring, medication administration (oral, IV, IM, subcutaneous), and restorative treatments
- Implemented care plans under direction of CHCA, Nurse Supervisor, or Physician; assisted with chronic care, physical exams, and specialty clinics
- Provided health education, counseling, and screenings (immunizations, TB tests, etc.)
- Performed emergency medical interventions including CPR, AED, and first aid; coordinated referrals to advanced care providers
- Supported ambulatory and non-ambulatory inmates with hygiene and daily living activities
- Functioned as charge or staff nurse, overseeing care delivery and staff assignments
- Maintained accurate documentation in electronic health records; prepared reports for inmate transfers and releases
- Communicated critical updates to custody staff and medical leadership during emergencies
- Ensured compliance with infection control and quality improvement protocols
- Managed controlled substances and maintained inventory of medical supplies
- Participated in ongoing training and policy updates to maintain clinical competencies
Registered Nurse
Department of Military & Veterans Affairs
08.2020 - 12.2020
- Assessed resident conditions and coordinated daily staff assignments to ensure optimal care delivery
- Directed and supervised nursing care across multiple units, adapting to staffing needs and emergencies
- Collaborated with physicians during rounds, assisted with exams/treatments, and communicated changes in resident status
- Completed admission and re-admission assessments, maintained accurate documentation in Care Tracker and Ultracare
- Monitored transcription of physician orders and conducted monthly audits to ensure compliance
- Dispensed and oversaw administration of medications; maintained current medication records and coordinated monthly exchanges with pharmacy
- Led environmental rounds, documented findings, and implemented corrective actions
- Developed and evaluated individualized care plans in alignment with ANA standards and resident needs
- Trained and evaluated nursing staff, provided feedback to RN Supervisor, and supported professional development
- Participated in interdisciplinary care conferences and communicated decisions to nursing personnel
- Managed inventory of medical supplies and equipment; recommended repairs and improvements
- Facilitated resident transport to external medical facilities and coordinated interdepartmental services
- Delivered health education and counseling to residents and families
- Supported Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) initiatives; contributed to PIP teams and safety compliance
- Attended mandatory in-service training, seminars, and conferences to maintain clinical competencies
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Lock Haven University
Clearfield, PA05-2021
Associate of Science - Nursing
Lock Haven University
Clearfield, PA05-2020
Associate of Applied Science - Nursing
Lock Haven University
Clearfield Pa 05-2019
Skills
- Collaborative clinical decision-making
- Gender-specific patient care
- Health education delivery
- Individualized care planning
- Nursing education support
- Care coordination improvement
- Leadership and critical thinking development
- Medication and IV administration
- Documentation and charting
- Infection control measures
Timeline
Registered Nurse
Pennsylvania Department Of Corrections
12.2020 - Current
Registered Nurse
Department of Military & Veterans Affairs
08.2020 - 12.2020
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Lock Haven University
Associate of Science - Nursing
Lock Haven University
Associate of Applied Science - Nursing
Lock Haven University
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