Tera Whaley-Dula
Hickory
Summary
Dedicated critical care nurse with a track record of managing high-acuity patients through advanced hemodynamic monitoring and rapid interventions. Proven ability to enhance patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based practices and coordinating comprehensive care plans across multidisciplinary teams.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
RN ICU/CCU (Travel Nurse Medical Solutions)
High Point Regional Hospital
High Point
10.2025 - Current
- Managed care for mechanically ventilated patients, performing CRRT and arterial line placement to ensure optimal respiratory support.
- Delivered advanced hemodynamic monitoring and vasoactive support for critical cases.
- Provided care for high-acuity ICU patients experiencing respiratory failure and septic shock.
- Oversaw neurovascular ICU patients, implementing EVD and ICP monitoring to assess and manage intracranial pressure effectively.
- Administered vasopressor titration and insulin adjustments utilizing EndoTool.
- Utilized TTM/Arctic Sun for effective temperature management in post-cardiac arrest cases.
- Implemented minimally invasive hemodynamic monitoring techniques using FloTrac and Hemisphere.
- Coordinated multidisciplinary care for patients with renal failure, stroke, DKA/HHS, and cardiac arrest to optimize treatment outcomes.
RN Cardiac IMC (Travel Nurse Medical Solutions)
Moses Cone Hospital
Greensboro
06.2025 - 09.2025
- Monitored patients' vital signs and cardiac rhythms using telemetry systems for timely interventions.
- Interpreted cardiology test results including echocardiograms, stress tests, and Holter monitors.
- Managed interpretation of dysrhythmia and peripheral line care for optimal patient outcomes.
- Developed comprehensive care plans based on assessments, physician orders, and lab values to ensure coordinated patient care.
- Administered medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians to ensure compliance.
- Educated patients and families on diagnosis, treatment plans, medications, and lifestyle changes to promote adherence and improve outcomes.
- Counseled patients and families on diet and exercise regimens, enhancing understanding of risk factors and disease management.
- Implemented interventions according to established protocols for effective rapid response.
Transplant RN (Travel-Medical Solutions)
Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center
Charlotte
03.2025 - 06.2025
- Collaborated with medical teams to prepare patients for transplantation.
- Monitored patient progress throughout transplant process.
- Organized follow-up care appointments to track patient progress and optimize post-transplant recovery.
- Facilitated communication between transplant teams and healthcare providers.
- Developed educational materials for patients regarding transplant procedures.
- Educated patients on dialysis procedures and kidney health management to enhance understanding and compliance.
- Administered prescribed medications and treatments for kidney-related conditions.
- Monitored patient vital signs and renal function parameters to ensure timely interventions.
- Collaborated with healthcare team to develop individualized care plans.
- Performed dialysis treatments for patients with acute or chronic renal failure.
- Provided education and counseling to patients about their condition, treatment options and post-transplant care.
RN, ICU (Travel-Medical Solutions)
Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital
Bozeman
11.2024 - 02.2025
- Provide critical care to patients with life-threatening conditions, including
ventilator management, and hemodynamic monitoring. - Facilitated emergency procedures to stabilize critically ill patients effectively.
- Assisted physicians with various invasive procedures within the ICU setting.
- Initiated resuscitation measures when necessary following cardiac arrest or respiratory failure events.
- Utilize advanced technology, including ventilators, infusion pumps, and cardiac monitors, to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
- Applied evidence-based practice guidelines in care for critically ill patients to enhance treatment outcomes.
- Administered medications and treatments according to physician orders and protocols.
- Provided education to patients and families on health management and post-discharge care to promote recovery.
- Educate patients and families on conditions and treatments.
Maintain adherence to infection control protocols and hospital safety standards.
CCU/IMCU/OBS/Oncology/Rehab
Catawba Valley Medical Center
Hickory
09.2023 - 09.2024
- Demonstrated advanced knowledge of critical care nursing principles in the management of high-acuity patients with complex medical needs.
- Conducted daily rounds on assigned patients to assess conditions and initiate timely interventions, enhancing patient care.
- Utilized advanced technology including ventilators and hemodynamic monitors to monitor vital signs and adjust treatments accordingly.
- Implemented emergency interventions such as rapid response team activation or cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
- Assisted physicians during intubation and chest tube procedures, contributing to safe and effective patient outcomes.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop evidence-based protocols for improving patient outcomes.
- Facilitated family meetings to discuss treatment plans, educate families, and address questions, fostering collaboration in patient care.
Rapid Response LTAC/Hospital Support
Protouch Staffing
Spokane
01.2022 - 08.2022
- Provided care for patients with complications following surgery, complex wound care/care for burns, prolonged ventilator uses or weaning, post-intensive care, multi-organ or system failure, traumatic brain injuries, and multiple chronic conditions.
- Ensured proper functioning of ventilators, monitors, and medical equipment to support patient care.
- Responded to life-saving situations using nursing standards and treatment.
- Assessed patient conditions and planned/implemented care strategies to enhance recovery.
- Administering intravenous fluids and medications through multiple ports/access.
- Observed and recorded VS, changes in conditions, and follow-up with physicians.
- Transcribed orders of care in multiple EMR systems such as diagnostic tests and medications.
- Provided education and support to patients and families about care plans.
Registered Nurse, LTAC
Crossmed Healthcare Staffing
Biscoe
08.2021 - 12.2021
- Exercised sound judgment and decision-making in managing complex medical cases, improving patient outcomes.
- Responded quickly to rapidly changing conditions associated with unstable patients requiring frequent reassessment of their clinical status.
- Utilized critical thinking and problem-solving skills to assess and respond to changes in the patient's condition.
- Intervened promptly when emergencies arose such as cardiac arrest or code blue scenarios.
- Administered medications, treatments, and procedures according to physician orders and nursing standards of practice.
- Cultivated supportive relationships with families, enhancing their experience during critical care situations.
- Prioritized and managed tasks effectively to ensure timely care for multiple patients, optimizing workflow.
Neuroprogressive ICU
Crossmed Healthcare Staffing
Atlanta
04.2021 - 08.2021
- Expertly assisted with intubation, tracheostomy care, and extubation of ventilated patients in the Neuro ICU setting.
- Operated mechanical ventilation devices to stabilize oxygen levels in critically ill patients.
- Assisted with advanced procedures such as lumbar punctures, intracranial pressure monitoring, EEGs, EMGs, and transcranial dopplers on Neuro ICU patients.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary team members including physicians, nurse practitioners, physical therapists, and respiratory therapists to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
- Coordinated with healthcare team to develop and assess patient care plans for optimal outcomes.
- Assisted physicians with performing bedside procedures such as chest tube insertion or central line placement.
- Administered medications safely according to established protocols while monitoring patient response to treatment plans.
- Documented assessments, treatments, and patient progress notes to ensure continuity of care.
Unit Coordinator
Brian Center Health and Rehabilitation-Viewmont
Hickory
07.2020 - 04.2021
- Monitored and directed all aspects of the nursing service department with DON oversight.
- Coordinated nursing services with other resident services alongside the DON to enhance continuity of residents' total regimen of care.
- Provided staff education and coordinated training with the DON and SDC to align with facility goals.
- Worked with attending physicians to ensure resident needs and regulatory requirements were met.
- Monitored adherence to infection control procedures among nursing personnel during isolation precautions.
- Conducted comprehensive facility surveys to assess compliance with regulations.
- Created a plan of action to identify and address QAPI issues effectively.
Staff Development Coordinator/ADON
College Pines Nursing and Rehab
Valdese
07.2018 - 07.2020
- Organized, facilitated, and conducted professional development workshops for staff members on topics such as leadership, communication, teamwork, and customer service.
- Conducted assessments of current staff competencies and identified areas needing improvement through surveys, interviews, focus groups, and other feedback mechanisms.
- Provided coaching to staff members to improve job performance or to help them adjust to new roles or responsibilities.
- Organized conferences and seminars to enhance employee expertise and foster professional development.
- Evaluated the performance of staff members to provide feedback and direction.
- Ensured effective utilization of resources while maintaining high standards of care.
- Implemented policies and procedures that improved the quality of care provided to patients.
- Developed strategies for improving patient outcomes, increasing efficiency, and reducing costs.
- Fostered open communication among healthcare providers to improve collaboration and patient care.
- Analyzed data from multiple sources to identify trends or patterns related to quality measures.
- Served as liaison between physicians and nursing staff regarding patient care.
- Communicated effectively with upper management regarding changes in policy and procedures.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate staff in a team environment.
- Led nursing team to improve and sustain superior performance of the facility.
- Coordinated clinical research projects involving collaboration with outside agencies.
Home Health Registered Nurse Case Manager
Kindred at Home
Hickory
04.2017 - 07.2018
- Provided home health services to patients with chronic illnesses and disabilities, utilizing critical thinking skills to develop individualized care plans.
- Assessed patient's conditions and provided an ongoing evaluation of care plan effectiveness, adapting treatment as necessary.
- Coordinated discharge planning between hospitals and home health agencies, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and smooth transitions for patients.
- Conducted comprehensive assessments of the physical, psychosocial, and environmental needs of each patient upon admission, exhibiting keen observation skills.
- Cultivated collaborative relationships with physicians, social workers, therapists, and interdisciplinary team members to enhance patient care.
- Maintained open lines of communication with referral sources about patient's condition or any changes that may be necessary; kept documentation updated accordingly.
- Educated patients and families on proper self-care techniques, demonstrating strong communication skills.
- Reviewed physician orders for accuracy and completeness before implementation of care plans, demonstrating strong organizational abilities.
- Managed caseloads of up to 10 patients per shift, exercising time management abilities to meet all deadlines.
- Initiated appropriate preventative measures; identified potential problems early.
- Engaged in quality improvement initiatives to enhance service delivery, contributing actionable ideas for continuous organizational improvement.
Vent Nurse
UNIFOUR NURSING/Epic Health Services
Newton
10.2013 - 06.2017
- Managed ventilators, IV pumps, and other specialized equipment used in critical care settings.
- Assessed and monitored the patient's vital signs, including heart rate, oxygen saturation levels, blood pressure, and temperature.
- Demonstrated proficiency in advanced cardiac life support techniques.
- Performed intubations, chest tube insertions, and wound dressings.
- Responded swiftly to emergencies, maintaining composure to ensure effective crisis management.
- Ensured that all medications were properly administered according to physician orders.
- Implemented infection control procedures, contributing to a safer environment and minimizing infection risk.
- Cultivated relationships with patients and families through compassionate care, enhancing patient satisfaction.
Clinical Nurse Liaison
HealthSouth Rehabilitation
Princeton
07.2012 - 09.2013
- Facilitated communication between hospital staff, physicians, family members, and outside agencies to ensure continuity of care.
- Identified barriers impacting transitions from acute care to community-based services, facilitating smoother patient relocations.
- Assessed patients' medical needs by conducting comprehensive assessments and developing individualized plans of care.
- Provided ongoing consultation on complex cases involving multiple disciplines or specialties within the health system.
- Delivered clinical expertise and support to interdisciplinary team, improving collaborative care for complex patient needs.
- Developed and implemented patient education programs to assist in the transition of care, utilizing evidence-based practice standards.
- Cultivated relationships with local referral sources, enhancing service utilization and strengthening community partnerships.
- Actively participated in meetings with internal and external partners to identify opportunities for process improvements.
- Served as a resource for nursing staff regarding best practices for transitioning patients across the continuum of care.
Health and Wellness Director (DON)
Brookdale Assisted Living
Hickory
04.2011 - 06.2012
- Ensured residents were treated with respect and dignity and ensured quality care as residents' healthcare needs changed.
- Supervised caregiving staff and coordinated healthcare needs, optimizing support for residents' overall well-being.
- Managed day-to-day healthcare operations of Assisted Living community, ensuring timely and effective resident healthcare delivery.
- Provided training, supervision, and monitoring of associates.
VENT CHARGE NURSE
Valley Nursing Center
Taylorsville
01.2009 - 04.2011
- Administered and managed advanced life support interventions, including ventilator management, cardiac monitoring, and hemodynamic monitoring.
- Participated in code blue and rapid response teams, providing timely and effective emergency care in critical situations.
- Performed clinical assessments on critically ill patients according to established criteria.
- Coordinated seamless transitions for patients from hospital to facility settings, ensuring continuity of care.
- Engaged in quality assurance initiatives to enhance critical care outcomes through data analysis and best practices.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of advances in critical care nursing practices through continuing education courses.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively manage multiple priorities and delegate tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Demonstrated strong communication skills in interactions with patients, families, colleagues, and healthcare professionals to foster collaboration and support.
- Implemented safety protocols such as hand hygiene compliance among staff members.
- Documented patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes accurately and comprehensively in electronic medical records (EMR) systems.
Wound Care Nurse/Unit Manager RN
Gateway Rehab and Healthcare
Lenoir
01.2006 - 01.2009
- Assessed wounds from accidents and surgical procedures to identify immediate treatment needs and develop long-term care plans.
- Assessed and implemented nursing care to the geriatric patient or vent/trach-dependent patient.
- Responded promptly to changes in patient status, ensuring timely interventions and continuity of care.
- Conducted regular patient rounds, coordinated case management with supervising physicians, and served as liaison between families and health care administrators.
- Before the patient was discharged, educated patients and families on care practices and methods to promote wellness and healing.
- Administered medication and charted verbal orders and nursing notes according to policies and procedures.
- Provided safe environments for all assigned patients, staff members, and visitors.
ER/ICU/FLOAT
Grace Hospital
Morganton
05.2004 - 01.2008
- Performed emergency interventions in life-threatening situations with accuracy and speed.
- Ensured compliance with all regulatory standards related to Emergency Room/ICU operations.
- Demonstrated excellent clinical decision-making skills based on evidence-based practice guidelines.
- Exhibited strong critical thinking skills while responding quickly to changing patient needs or emergent situations.
- Employed problem-solving strategies to address challenging patient or family scenarios, ensuring appropriate care and support.
- Assessed and evaluated patient health conditions to determine appropriate care plans.
- Collaborated with physicians, other healthcare providers, and families to develop comprehensive treatment plans for patients.
- Coordinated interdepartmental activities during high-volume ER periods to streamline patient flow and optimize resource allocation.
- Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while prioritizing urgent needs according to established protocols.
- Trained staff members on specialized equipment used within the ER environment such as ventilators or cardiac monitors.
- Facilitated timely transfer of critically ill patients from the Emergency Department to higher levels of care.
ER/ICU/FLOAT
Grace Hospital
Morganton
01.2000 - 05.2004
- Trained in accurate collection of patient vitals, including blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature, to monitor patient health.
- Collected urine samples, attached EKG leads, and removed catheters to support diagnostic procedures.
- Tracheostomy cleaning and set up oxygen therapy for patients in their rooms.
- Measure the amount of fluid intake from patients receiving nutrition intravenously, assemble, monitor, and discontinue the feeding.
- Managed multiple tasks efficiently while adapting to changing patient needs and care demands.
- Responded quickly to meet customer needs and resolve problems.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Nursing
Western Piedmont Community College
HickorySkills
- Acute care proficiency
- Advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS)
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS)
- Cardiac monitoring
- Vital signs monitoring
- Vital signs collection
- Respiratory Assessment
- Tracheostomy care
- Medication and IV administration skills
- Insulin administration support
- Diabetes management
- Immunization and vaccination
- Wound care management
- Infection control practices
- Preventive healthcare strategies
- Diet and nutrition expertise
- Care coordination
- Intake and discharge processes
- EMR/EHR management
- Medical procedure preparation
- Heartsaver first aid CPR AED
- Microsoft Office proficiency
- Task prioritization skills
- Delegation and motivation techniques
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Adaptability in healthcare settings
- Professionalism in patient care
- Patient education strategies
- Compassionate care approach
- Hemodynamic monitoring
- Critical care protocols
Certification
- Infection control Preventionist
- ACLS
- PALS
- BLS
References
References available upon request
Timeline
RN ICU/CCU (Travel Nurse Medical Solutions)
High Point Regional Hospital
10.2025 - Current
RN Cardiac IMC (Travel Nurse Medical Solutions)
Moses Cone Hospital
06.2025 - 09.2025
Transplant RN (Travel-Medical Solutions)
Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center
03.2025 - 06.2025
RN, ICU (Travel-Medical Solutions)
Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital
11.2024 - 02.2025
CCU/IMCU/OBS/Oncology/Rehab
Catawba Valley Medical Center
09.2023 - 09.2024
Rapid Response LTAC/Hospital Support
Protouch Staffing
01.2022 - 08.2022
Registered Nurse, LTAC
Crossmed Healthcare Staffing
08.2021 - 12.2021
Neuroprogressive ICU
Crossmed Healthcare Staffing
04.2021 - 08.2021
Unit Coordinator
Brian Center Health and Rehabilitation-Viewmont
07.2020 - 04.2021
Staff Development Coordinator/ADON
College Pines Nursing and Rehab
07.2018 - 07.2020
Home Health Registered Nurse Case Manager
Kindred at Home
04.2017 - 07.2018
Vent Nurse
UNIFOUR NURSING/Epic Health Services
10.2013 - 06.2017
Clinical Nurse Liaison
HealthSouth Rehabilitation
07.2012 - 09.2013
Health and Wellness Director (DON)
Brookdale Assisted Living
04.2011 - 06.2012
VENT CHARGE NURSE
Valley Nursing Center
01.2009 - 04.2011
Wound Care Nurse/Unit Manager RN
Gateway Rehab and Healthcare
01.2006 - 01.2009
ER/ICU/FLOAT
Grace Hospital
05.2004 - 01.2008
ER/ICU/FLOAT
Grace Hospital
01.2000 - 05.2004
Associate of Applied Science - Nursing
Western Piedmont Community College