Conscientious Registered Nurse with Multi-State/Compact License issued in Alabama proudly offering over 30 years of vast experience managing healthcare settings and strong knowledge of surgical/medical procedures. Substantial experience managing nursing staff. Four years of case management, Sixteen years of surgical expertise. Organized, outgoing and energetic with excellent computer skills, verbal and written communication skills.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Unit Manager
Cavalier Healthcare of Trussville
Trussville, Alabama
07.2024 - Current
Successfully managed all units of a 165 bed Rehab/skilled nursing facility after unit manager stepped down from position.
Completed segments of MDS for admissions, quarterly/annual assessments and significant changes in residents.
Admitted residents to facility through Point Click Care to provide a seamless transition from hospital, home, or another SNF and getting their rooms ready for needed equipment before their arrival. Performed the process of printing the information files from the hospital stay and assuring that the therapy papers were pulled from the stack of papers and placed under the proper therapy tabs to speed up the transition process of therapy for resident.
Involved in case conferences with resident and their families for 72-hour admission, quarterly, annual, and significant changes conferences.
Assisted Social Services with setting up interdisciplinary care plan meetings with resident/family, interdisciplinary team at regular intervals to discuss resident needs and discharge planning.
Assure development and updates of care plans to meet the current needs of the resident with input from resident, family, and the interdisciplinary care planning committee.
Supported facility’s commitment in the quality of services to residents and their family
Held confidential all company, facility, resident, or employee's information
Adhered to facility-established policies and procedures
Provided astute clinical leadership and oversight for nursing staff and treatment departments, ensuring the delivery of high-quality patient care while adhering to nursing standards, regulatory requirements, and facility policies
Management of the activities of nursing staff, to include registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and certified nursing assistants (CNAs), along with MAC's (CNAs with a medication administration certificate), assured that staff stayed in their scope of practice, provided guidance, and evaluated performance to ensure optimal patient outcome
Developed, implemented, and evaluated individualized care plans for patients, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, physicians, and therapists to address patients' medical needs, functional abilities, and care preferences. Assured that the most appropriate ICD-10 code was utilized.
Conducted comprehensive assessments of patients' health status, including physical/psychosocial/functional assessments, and monitored their responses to treatments/interventions, adjusted care plans as necessary
Implemented discharge planning when rehab residents upon admission to facility and continued discharge planning throughout their stay to ensure a seamless transition back to the community or facilitated their transition to long term care
Coordinated care between the facility and the hospice companies to promote dignity during the end-of-life issues through their death with dignity. Provided emotional support to the resident and their families as well as other residents of the facility.
Evaluated employee performance regularly for professional growth opportunities, accountability measures, and feedback-driven improvement strategies.
Resolved conflicts among team members quickly to maintain a positive working environment conducive for continued excellence in patient care.
Efficiently managing a 28 to 30-patient schedule in 2 shifts three times a week while continuing to gain knowledge, continuously looking for improving patient experience with adjusting to life as a dialysis-dependent kidney disease relying on hemodialysis
Serves as the primary point of contact and resource for hemodialysis patients and their families, providing education, support, and guidance on treatment modalities, medication management, and self-care practices to promote optimal health outcomes and quality of life
Coordinates and prioritizes patient care activities, including hemodialysis treatments, medication administration, laboratory testing, and patient assessments, to ensure timely and efficient delivery of care and adherence to prescribed treatment regimens
Administers medications and intravenous therapies as prescribed by healthcare providers, ensuring accurate dosage calculations, proper administration techniques, and adherence to medication safety protocols, including verification of patient allergies and contraindications
Monitors patients' vital signs, fluid status, and laboratory values during hemodialysis treatments, assessing for signs of complications, adverse reactions, or changes in health status, and initiating appropriate interventions or adjustments to treatment as needed
Documents patient assessments, treatment parameters, medication administration, and other pertinent information in electronic health records (EHR) and clinical documentation systems accurately and comprehensively, maintaining confidentiality and data integrity
Assumes the role of acting nurse manager in the absence of the Nurse Manager, providing direction, guidance, and support to nursing staff and other team members to maintain continuity of operations and uphold quality of care
Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
Coordinated nursing care on unit through staff assignments, assisting and rounding with physicians, monitoring patient orders, and communicating with ancillary departments.
Optimized patient satisfaction through timely response to concerns and effective communication among staff members.
Promoted a safe working environment by adhering to infection control policies and regularly reviewing safety protocols.
Maintained accurate documentation of patient information, enabling informed decision-making among the healthcare team members.
Participated in quality improvement initiatives, contributing to the development of best practices within the department.
Reduced medication errors by establishing stringent medication administration procedures.
Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviors and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.
Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
Offered exceptional care and support to individuals recovering from acute incidents and dealing with chronic conditions.
Facilitated therapeutic communication, conflict resolution and crisis intervention by redirecting negative behaviors and helping patients regain or improve coping abilities.
Implemented care plans for patient treatment after assessing physician medical regimens.
In Center Hemodialysis Staff Nurse
DaVita Dialysis
Centerpoint, Alabama
04.2022 - 08.2022
Provided direct patient care to individuals undergoing hemodialysis treatment ensuring safe, effective, and compassionate care delivery in accordance with established protocols, standards, and regulatory requirements
Performed comprehensive assessments of patient's health status, including vital signs, fluid status, and laboratory values, before, during, and after hemodialysis treatments, identifying and documenting relevant findings and abnormalities in electronic health record (EHR)
Monitored patients' response to hemodialysis therapy, assessing for signs of complications, adverse reactions, or changes in health status, and initiating appropriate interventions, adjustments, or modifications to treatment as needed to optimize patient outcomes and safety
Administered medications and intravenous therapies as prescribed by healthcare providers, adhering to medication safety protocols, dosage calculations, and administration techniques, and educating patients on medication compliance, side effects, and self-administration as appropriate
Educated patients and their families on kidney disease, hemodialysis treatment, dietary restrictions, fluid management, and self-care practices, empowering patients to actively participate in their treatment plan and make informed decisions about their health
Collaborated with interdisciplinary healthcare team members, including nephrologists, nurse practitioners, dietitians, and social workers, to develop individualized care plans, address patient needs and concerns, and coordinate ancillary services to support holistic patient care
Department Head of Treatments
Trinity Management at Altoona Health and Rehab
Altoona, Alabama
05.2020 - 04.2022
Provided clinical leadership in 60 bed facility and oversight for nursing staff and treatment departments, ensuring delivery of high-quality patient care and adherence to nursing standards, regulatory requirements, and facility policies
Attended classes for Patient Driven Payment Model (PDPM), and Prospective Payment System (PPS) for classifying SNF patients in covered Part A stay.
Supervised and coordinated activities of nursing staff, including registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and certified nursing assistants (CNAs), assigning duties, providing guidance, and evaluating performance to ensure optimal patient outcomes
Developed, implemented, and evaluated individualized care plans for patients, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, physicians, and therapists to address patients' medical needs, functional abilities, and care preferences
Conducted comprehensive assessments of patients' health status, including physical, psychosocial, and functional assessments, and monitored their responses to treatments and interventions, adjusting care plans as necessary
Provided specialized wound care management, including assessment, treatment, and documentation of wounds, ulcers, and skin conditions, utilizing evidence-based practices and advanced wound care modalities to promote healing and prevent complications
Collaborated with other department heads, healthcare providers, and support services to coordinate patient care, address interdisciplinary issues, and promote interdisciplinary communication and teamwork
MDS
ICD coding
RN Supervisor
Trinity Management at Altoona Health and Rehab
Altoona, AL
05.2020 - 07.2020
Provided leadership and guidance to nursing staff, including licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and certified nursing assistants (CNAs), ensuring adherence to established policies, procedures, and standards of care
Oversaw delivery of patient care services, including medication administration, wound care, and other nursing interventions, to ensure safety, comfort, and well-being of residents
Conducted regular rounds and assessments of residents' health status, monitoring for any changes in condition or signs of deterioration, and implementing appropriate interventions as needed
Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members, including physicians, therapists, and social workers, to develop and implement individualized care plans for residents, addressing their physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs
Provided clinical supervision and support to nursing staff, offering guidance on nursing practice, clinical decision-making, and problem-solving, and serving as resource for clinical expertise and knowledge
Managed critical situations calmly and efficiently, providing guidance to nursing team during emergencies.
Served as approachable leader who consistently addressed concerns raised by both nursing staff and families regarding patient care issues or operational challenges within unit effectively resolving them promptly whenever possible.
Cultivated atmosphere of teamwork and open communication among staff members, resulting i more cohesive work environment and greater job satisfaction for nursing team.
Established strong relationships with interdisciplinary teams for seamless coordination of resident care services.
Charge Nurse
Trinity Management at TLC Health and Rehab
Oneonta, Alabama
03.2019 - 05.2020
Provided direct patient care to residents in 104-bed facility, including assessing patient needs, developing care plans, administering medications, and performing nursing procedures in accordance with established protocols and standards of practice
Supervised and delegated nursing tasks and assignments to licensed and unlicensed staff, ensuring provision of safe, effective, and compassionate care to residents while promoting teamwork and collaboration among nursing team members
Monitored patient conditions, vital signs, and responses to treatments, interventions, and medications, promptly identifying any changes or concerns and initiating appropriate interventions or notifying attending physician or healthcare provider as needed
Conducted regular rounds to assess resident care needs, address issues or concerns, and ensure compliance with care plans, policies, and regulatory requirements
Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams, including physicians, therapists, social workers, and other healthcare professionals, to coordinate and optimize resident care services and support achievement of resident goals and objectives
Provided education, guidance, and support to residents and their families regarding health conditions, treatment options, and discharge planning, promoting informed decision-making and continuity of care
Coordinated nursing care on unit through staff assignments, assisting and rounding with physicians, monitoring patient orders, and communicating with ancillary departments.
Care Manager
ComfortCare Hospice
Cullman, Alabama
09.2018 - 03.2019
Served as Care Manager at ComfortCare Hospice, responsible for coordinating and overseeing delivery of comprehensive hospice care services to patients and their families
Conducted initial assessments and ongoing evaluations of patient needs, preferences, and goals to develop individualized care plans and treatment goals
Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams, including physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and therapists, to coordinate and implement holistic care plans that address physical, emotional, spiritual, and psychosocial needs
Communicated effectively with patients, families, and caregivers to provide education, support, and counseling regarding hospice philosophy, end-of-life care options, and advance care planning
Coordinated and facilitated regular care team meetings and case conferences to review patient status, discuss care plans, and address any concerns or changes in condition
Developed strong rapport with patients and families through empathetic listening and compassionate communication techniques.
Assessed clients and developed plans to meet needs. Managed complex caseloads, ensuring timely assessment, intervention, and documentation for optimal care outcomes.
Facilitated family meetings to address concerns, establish goals of care, and provide psychosocial support.
Communicated with healthcare providers to facilitate continuity of care.
Promoted patient self-management by providing education on chronic condition management and healthy lifestyle choices.
Maintained detailed records in compliance with agency standards and regulations.
Participated in team meetings and trainings to stay updated on best practices and new developments in care management.
Conducted thorough assessments to identify patients'' needs, strengths, and barriers to achieving optimal health outcomes.
Served as liaison between patients, families, physicians, insurance providers, and other healthcare professionals for seamless care coordination efforts.
Responded to emergency situations and provided support to promote client safety and wellbeing.
Consulted with supervisors to assess cases and plan strategies for enhancing care.
Evaluated clients progress and adjusted service plans to address areas of concern.
Monitored patient progress closely, adjusting care plans as needed to promote ongoing improvement.
Utilized electronic health records systems proficiently for efficient documentation of clinical information according to regulatory standards.
Prioritized time management effectively balancing competing demands within dynamic fast-paced healthcare environments.
Implemented evidence-based interventions for diverse populations, supporting culturally competent care delivery practices.
Liaised with other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive patient care plans and provide highest quality of care.
Care Manager
Brookdale Home Health
Oneonta, Alabama
04.2018 - 09.2018
Managed caseload of patients receiving home health services, including assessment, care coordination, and ongoing monitoring to ensure quality care and positive health outcomes
Conducted comprehensive assessments of patients' medical, social, and functional needs, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to develop individualized care plans tailored to each patient's unique circumstances
Coordinated and supervised delivery of home health services, including skilled nursing, therapy, and personal care assistance, ensuring adherence to care plans and regulatory requirements
Monitored patients' progress and response to treatment, conducting regular visits, assessments, and reassessments, and adjusting care plans as needed to optimize patient outcomes and safety
Communicated effectively with patients, families, caregivers, and healthcare providers, providing education, support, and guidance on care options, treatment goals, and available resources
Advocated for patients' needs and preferences, facilitating access to community resources, medical equipment, and supportive services to enhance independence, comfort, and quality of life
Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
Educated clients and families on community resources, treatment options and health care services to better manage conditions.
Developed strong rapport with patients and families through empathetic listening and compassionate communication techniques.
Assessed clients and developed plans to meet needs.
Provided crisis intervention services when necessary by assessing risk levels promptly addressing safety concerns collaboratively with treatment team.
Established and maintained relationships with clients, families and community partners to coordinate services to meet client's needs.
Managed complex caseload of 20-30 patients, ensuring timely assessment, intervention, and documentation for optimal care outcomes.
Communicated with healthcare providers to facilitate continuity of care.
Promoted patient self-management by providing education on chronic condition management and healthy lifestyle choices.
Maintained detailed records in compliance with agency standards and regulations.
Participated in team meetings and trainings to stay updated on best practices and new developments in care management.
Participated in interdisciplinary case conferences fostering teamwork collaboration sharing best practice insights to optimize patient care outcomes.
Served as liaison between patients, families, physicians, insurance providers, and other healthcare professionals for seamless care coordination efforts.
Maintained strict adherence to professional ethics and confidentiality guidelines, safeguarding sensitive information and promoting trust.
Responded to emergency situations and provided support to promote client safety and wellbeing.
Utilized electronic health records systems proficiently for efficient documentation of clinical information according to regulatory standards.
Prioritized time management effectively balancing competing demands within dynamic fast-paced healthcare environments.
Implemented evidence-based interventions for diverse populations, supporting culturally competent care delivery practices.
Developed and implemented individualized care plans and coordinated necessary services to avail quality care for clients.
Circulator OR/Charge Nurse
ST. Vincent's East
Birmingham, Alabama
11.2008 - 04.2018
Coordinated perioperative activities in a 13 suite OR, including patient preparation, intraoperative care, and postoperative monitoring, in collaboration with surgical team members and anesthesia providers
Managed the surgical schedule and operating room workflow, prioritizing cases, assigning staff, and allocating resources to maximize efficiency and patient throughput
Assisted in the setup and preparation of surgical suites, including sterilization of instruments, positioning of equipment, and verification of surgical supplies, ensuring compliance with infection control protocols
Facilitated communication and collaboration among surgical team members, including surgeons, scrub technicians, anesthesia providers, and ancillary staff, to promote effective teamwork and patient safety
Monitored patients' vital signs, anesthesia administration, and intraoperative responses, anticipating and responding to changes in patient condition or surgical requirements promptly and effectively
Participated in quality assurance activities, including surgical time-outs, medication reconciliation, and documentation audits, to identify opportunities for improvement and enhance patient care outcomes
Enhanced patient safety by conducting thorough pre-operative assessments and verifying surgical consents.
Supported patient recovery by assisting with post-operative care plans and providing appropriate discharge instructions.
Streamlined workflow in the operating room through effective communication with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other staff members.
Coordinated efficient patient flow in the operating suite, minimizing delays while maximizing patient care.
Facilitated timely turnover of operating rooms by promptly cleaning and resetting them for the next procedure.
Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive patient care before, during, and after surgery.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay updated on new techniques and advances in perioperative nursing.
Maintained accurate documentation of each surgery, contributing to better post-operative care and followup.
Assisted surgical teams with seamless communication, resulting in a well-coordinated and successful procedure.
Promoted positive working relationships within the surgical team through open communication and collaboration on best practices.
Developed, implemented and coordinated individualized plan of care for patients assigned through initial and on-going assessments.
Handled emergencies effectively by remaining calm under pressure and following established protocols for crisis situations in the operating room.
Maintained compliance with regulatory requirements, ensuring consistent high-quality care for all patients.
Reduced risk of infection by diligently monitoring the sterilization process of surgical instruments and equipment.
Documented care based on standards of care and practice, patient acuity and clinical priorities.
Identified patient needs and determined priorities for care through assessment, planning, intervention and evaluation.
Managed inventory levels of medical supplies in the operating room, ensuring timely replenishment when needed.
Initiated assessments based on patient's problems or needs, physician's medical diagnosis and functional health framework.
Demonstrated adaptability by quickly adjusting to new technologies or procedures in the rapidly evolving healthcare industry.
Provided comfort to patients during stressful moments prior to their surgeries with compassionate attention and empathetic listening skills.
Improved patient care by efficiently preparing operating rooms and ensuring all necessary supplies were readily available.
Ensured a sterile environment for surgeries by adhering to strict protocols and guidelines.
Maintained organized work area by cleaning and removing hazards.
Collaborated with other departments to optimize production workflows.
Care Manager
Home Care Plus Home Health
Birmingham, AL
09.2007 - 06.2008
Helped clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
Educated patients and families on community resources, treatment options and health care services to better manage conditions.
Assessed clients and developed plans to meet needs.
Established and maintained relationships with clients, families and community partners to coordinate services to meet client's needs.
Managed complex caseloads, ensuring timely assessment, intervention, and documentation for optimal care outcomes.
Communicated with healthcare providers to facilitate continuity of care.
Promoted patient self-management by providing education on chronic condition management and healthy lifestyle choices.
Maintained detailed records in compliance with agency standards and regulations.
Participated in team meetings and trainings to stay updated on best practices and new developments in care management.
Coordinated referrals to specialists, hospitalizations,
Enhanced patient care by developing and implementing individualized care plans.
Established and maintained effective communication with staff, physicians and community organizations to promote high quality patient care.
Communicated with patients, ensuring that medical information was kept private.
Created customized care plans, working with hospital staff and families to assess and meet individual needs.
Discussed medical histories with patients in effort to provide most effective medical advice.
Liaised with other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive patient care plans and provide highest quality of care.
Main Operating Room Circulator
Birmingham VA Medical Center
Birmingham, AL
11.2000 - 12.2006
Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams for seamless surgical procedures, fostering positive working relationships.
Optimized surgical outcomes through diligent attention to detail during each phase of perioperative process – preoperative assessment, intraoperative management, and postoperative care coordination.
Minimized complications by closely monitoring patients for signs of distress or adverse reactions during surgery and taking immediate action when necessary.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices within field of perioperative nursing.
Supported anesthesia providers with patient induction, monitoring anesthesia levels, and ensuring appropriate recovery post-surgery.
Streamlined preoperative processes through thorough preparation of necessary supplies and instruments for each procedure.
Increased efficiency in operating room by anticipating surgeon needs during procedures and providing timely assistance.
Coordinated with vendors for specialized equipment needed for specific surgeries reducing delays in surgery start times.
Demonstrated adaptability by proficiently handling various types of surgeries across diverse specialties such as orthopedic, general, cardiovascular, or neurosurgery cases.
Maintained accurate counts of sponges, needles, and instruments throughout surgery to prevent any retained items postoperatively.
Enhanced patient safety by effectively managing surgical environment and adhering to strict protocols.
Improved patient outcomes through meticulous documentation of patient medical history, allergies, and medications.
Acted as patient advocate during surgical process, ensuring that every step of care plan was followed for best possible outcome.
American Heart Association, BCLS 'CPR/Heart Saver'
Personal Information
Hobbies: I am the Adult Fellowship Coordinator at church., I am also in the Media department at church which includes inputting media for use in the Praise and Worship service as well as manning the media controls during the Praise and Worship/Livestreaming the services to Facebook.
Hobbies and Interest
I am the Adult Fellowship Coordinator at church.
I am also in the Media department at church which includes inputting media for use in the Praise and Worship service as well as manning the media controls during the Praise and Worship/Livestreaming the services to Facebook.