Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Tracy Patten

Johnston,Iowa

Summary

Highly skilled and compassionate ICU Nurse with a proven track record at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center, adept in critical care and patient advocacy. Leveraged advanced cardiovascular life support and critical thinking skills to enhance patient outcomes, achieving a significant reduction in ICU readmissions. Demonstrates exceptional teamwork and collaboration, ensuring high-quality patient care.

Overview

18
18
years of professional experience

Work History

Circulating OR Nurse

Orthopaedic Outpatient Surgery Center (OOSC)
03.2024 - Current
  • Anticipated potential needs in the operating room environment by maintaining an organized workspace and replenishing supplies as needed for efficient workflow.
  • Actively participated in continuing education opportunities to stay current on best practices in perioperative nursing care.
  • Preserved patient dignity and privacy throughout the surgical experience by advocating for their rights as part of a holistic approach to nursing care.
  • Promoted teamwork among OR staff by fostering a positive work environment based on mutual respect and shared goals.
  • Collaborated closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and other healthcare professionals to deliver optimal patient care in the operating room.
  • Ensured proper positioning of patients during surgeries, minimizing risk of injury or discomfort.
  • Maintained detailed documentation of surgical procedures and interventions for accurate medical records and billing purposes.
  • Expedited patient recovery by promptly addressing postoperative complications or concerns through timely intervention and collaboration with other healthcare providers.
  • Safeguarded patients from harm by accurately identifying and verifying surgical sites, protecting against wrong-site surgeries.
  • Reduced surgery delays by efficiently preparing the operating room with necessary equipment, instruments, and supplies.
  • Enhanced patient safety by strictly adhering to aseptic techniques and infection control protocols during surgeries.
  • Streamlined communication between surgical team members, ensuring accurate sharing of critical information during procedures.
  • Coordinated with surgeons and staff to deliver safe patient care during operations.
  • Collected, labeled and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
  • Assisted physicians in operating room by providing necessary supplies and equipment.
  • Utilized sterile techniques and infection-control guidelines to maintain clean and safe environment.
  • Prepped operating rooms to comply with environmental asepsis standards.
  • Provided direct support to surgical team during procedures.
  • Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety, and rights of patient.
  • Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.

Clinic II RN

Iowa Heart Center
01.2024 - 03.2024
  • Administered medications accurately and safely, reducing medication errors and adverse reactions.
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction through effective communication, empathy, and timely response to their needs.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams for comprehensive patient care plans, resulting in better health outcomes.
  • Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
  • Improved patient outcomes by providing high-quality nursing care and implementing evidence-based practices.
  • Educated patients on disease management and self-care techniques, promoting lifestyle changes for improved health.
  • Served as a liaison between physicians and patients'' families to facilitate clear communication regarding treatment options and progress updates.
  • Provided emotional support to patients and their families.
  • Provided emotional support to patients during challenging times, fostering a sense of trust and rapport that contributed to better overall wellbeing.
  • Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
  • Participated in professional development opportunities regularly to stay current on best practices in the field of nursing.
  • Evaluated healthcare needs, goals for treatment, and available resources of each patient and connected to optimal providers and care.
  • Conferred with physicians to discuss diagnoses and devise well-coordinated treatment approaches.
  • Audited charts and reviewed clinical documents to verify accuracy.
  • Monitored patient condition by interpreting and tracking EKG readings, identifying irregular telemetry readings and updating team members on changes in stability or acuity.
  • Maintained quality care and comfort for patients with heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and other conditions.
  • Managed quality care for patients with heart failure, end-stage renal disease and coronary artery disease.
  • Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
  • Equipped patients with tools and knowledge needed for speedy and sustained recovery.

Circulating OR Nurse

SCA
03.2023 - 12.2023
  • Anticipated potential needs in the operating room environment by maintaining an organized workspace and replenishing supplies as needed for efficient workflow.
  • Actively participated in continuing education opportunities to stay current on best practices in perioperative nursing care.
  • Preserved patient dignity and privacy throughout the surgical experience by advocating for their rights as part of a holistic approach to nursing care.
  • Participated in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing patient outcomes and refining OR processes for optimal efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Promoted teamwork among OR staff by fostering a positive work environment based on mutual respect and shared goals.
  • Improved surgical outcomes by providing comprehensive perioperative nursing care to patients and their families.
  • Collaborated closely with surgeons, anesthesia providers, and other healthcare professionals to deliver optimal patient care in the operating room.
  • Monitored vital signs continuously throughout procedures, alerting appropriate team members when changes indicated potential concerns or required adjustments in care plans.
  • Ensured proper positioning of patients during surgeries, minimizing risk of injury or discomfort.
  • Maintained detailed documentation of surgical procedures and interventions for accurate medical records and billing purposes.
  • Expedited patient recovery by promptly addressing postoperative complications or concerns through timely intervention and collaboration with other healthcare providers.
  • Safeguarded patients from harm by accurately identifying and verifying surgical sites, protecting against wrong-site surgeries.
  • Reduced surgery delays by efficiently preparing the operating room with necessary equipment, instruments, and supplies.
  • Enhanced patient safety by strictly adhering to aseptic techniques and infection control protocols during surgeries.
  • Streamlined communication between surgical team members, ensuring accurate sharing of critical information during procedures.
  • Coordinated with surgeons and staff to deliver safe patient care during operations.
  • Collected, labeled and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
  • Assisted physicians in operating room by providing necessary supplies and equipment.
  • Utilized sterile techniques and infection-control guidelines to maintain clean and safe environment.
  • Prepped operating rooms to comply with environmental asepsis standards.
  • Provided direct support to surgical team during procedures.
  • Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety, and rights of patient.
  • Sanitized, selected and organizing instruments, equipment and supplies according to surgeon preferences.
  • Collaborated with members of patients' healthcare team to deliver appropriate level of care.
  • Monitored patients' vital signs and administered medications per physician orders or good practices.
  • Provided instruction to patients and family members before and after surgical procedures.
  • Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.

ICU Nurse

Lovelace Medical Center
01.2023 - 03.2023
  • Managed critical care patients with complex medical conditions, providing compassionate care and support to families.
  • Conducted ongoing monitoring of vital signs, lab results, and diagnostic tests to promptly identify changes in patient conditions.
  • Monitored patients' respiratory status and ventilator operation and made adjustments to promote stabilization.
  • Developed and implemented patient care plans based on physicians' instructions and generally accepted nursing practices.
  • Administered medications safely and effectively, following established protocols and guidelines for dosage calculations and administration techniques.
  • Provided life-saving interventions during emergency situations, stabilizing patients and preventing further complications.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop individualized care plans for optimal patient recovery.
  • Delivered age-appropriate medical care for adult, adolescent, and geriatric ICU patients.
  • Facilitated smooth patient transfers between units by collaborating with other healthcare professionals, ensuring continuity of care throughout the hospital stay.
  • Observed patients' vital signs and administered physician-prescribed medications and treatments.
  • Adhered to strict safety guidelines when handling and disposing of biohazardous materials to maintain a safe environment in the ICU.
  • Provided emotional support to patients'' families while maintaining open lines of communication regarding treatment plans and progress updates.
  • Recorded patients' medical status and treatment details in electronic charts to accurately document medical care.
  • Maintained strict adherence to infection control protocols, reducing hospital-acquired infections in the ICU setting.
  • Implemented best practices in wound care management, reducing healing time and preventing complications in post-surgical patients.
  • Mentored new ICU nurses, sharing knowledge and expertise to enhance their professional growth and development.
  • Reduced ICU readmissions through thorough patient assessments and comprehensive discharge planning.
  • Streamlined communication between healthcare providers, ensuring accurate information sharing for improved patient management.
  • Followed HCA ethical values and principles and adhered to HIPAA medical record regulations to promote patients' privacy.
  • Assessed and documented changes in patient's condition and prepared patient for transfer to higher level of care.
  • Administered medications and treatments as ordered by physician.

ICU Nurse

Advent Health North Pinellas
01.2022 - 01.2023
  • Managed critical care patients with complex medical conditions, providing compassionate care and support to families.
  • Conducted ongoing monitoring of vital signs, lab results, and diagnostic tests to promptly identify changes in patient conditions.
  • Monitored patients' respiratory status and ventilator operation and made adjustments to promote stabilization.
  • Developed and implemented patient care plans based on physicians' instructions and generally accepted nursing practices.
  • Administered medications safely and effectively, following established protocols and guidelines for dosage calculations and administration techniques.
  • Provided life-saving interventions during emergency situations, stabilizing patients and preventing further complications.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop individualized care plans for optimal patient recovery.
  • Delivered age-appropriate medical care for adult, adolescent, and geriatric ICU patients.
  • Facilitated smooth patient transfers between units by collaborating with other healthcare professionals, ensuring continuity of care throughout the hospital stay.
  • Observed patients' vital signs and administered physician-prescribed medications and treatments.
  • Adhered to strict safety guidelines when handling and disposing of biohazardous materials to maintain a safe environment in the ICU.
  • Served as a liaison between physicians, family members, and patients on complex end-of-life decisions within the intensive care unit.
  • Coordinated timely responses to rapid response calls within the hospital facility leading to quicker intervention strategies for deteriorating patients.
  • Provided emotional support to patients'' families while maintaining open lines of communication regarding treatment plans and progress updates.
  • Recorded patients' medical status and treatment details in electronic charts to accurately document medical care.
  • Maintained strict adherence to infection control protocols, reducing hospital-acquired infections in the ICU setting.
  • Implemented best practices in wound care management, reducing healing time and preventing complications in post-surgical patients.
  • Mentored new ICU nurses, sharing knowledge and expertise to enhance their professional growth and development.
  • Coordinated patients' post-discharge treatment plans with physicians and other nurses to promote continuity of medical care.
  • Participated in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing overall ICU operations and patient care delivery systems.
  • Assisted in the orientation process of new staff members by providing guidance on unit policies, procedures, equipment usage.
  • Reduced ICU readmissions through thorough patient assessments and comprehensive discharge planning.
  • Streamlined communication between healthcare providers, ensuring accurate information sharing for improved patient management.
  • Supervised new employees and student nurses to promote adherence to established patient care standards and practices.
  • Explained health care issues and ramifications to patients and families to promote informed medical care choices.
  • Continuously expanded clinical knowledge base through participation in educational workshops, seminars, and conferences related to critical care nursing.
  • Followed HCA ethical values and principles and adhered to HIPAA medical record regulations to promote patients' privacy.

Circulating Nurse, Operating Room

Mason City Surgery Center
06.2019 - 10.2021
  • Streamlined operating room setup for faster procedure turnaround times, ensuring timely patient care.
  • Facilitated smooth transitions between surgical cases by efficiently preparing operating rooms for subsequent procedures.
  • Reduced risk of infection by maintaining a sterile operating room environment through proper cleaning and equipment handling techniques.
  • Minimized post-operative complications through diligent assessment of patients'' vital signs and overall condition during recovery.
  • Contributed to a culture of safety within the operating room by staying current on best practices and advocating for their implementation as needed.
  • Demonstrated adaptability to various types of surgeries, swiftly learning new techniques when required.
  • Upheld strict standards for patient privacy, maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information at all times.
  • Contributed to reduced surgical errors by consistently verifying patient information, site markings, and procedure details prior to surgery.
  • Maintained comprehensive documentation of all surgical processes, enhancing communication among medical professionals involved in each case.
  • Assisted in the continuous improvement of overall patient care by actively participating in operating room meetings and providing constructive feedback.
  • Promoted a positive work environment within the operating room by fostering strong teamwork among all staff members involved in each case.
  • Improved surgical team efficiency by effectively communicating with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other staff members during operations.
  • Supported ongoing education efforts within the surgical department, participating in training sessions and sharing knowledge with colleagues for continuous improvement.
  • Assisted in successful surgeries by providing necessary instruments and supplies to the surgeon in a timely manner.
  • Enhanced patient safety by diligently monitoring surgical procedures and promptly addressing any concerns.
  • Participated in quality assurance initiatives aimed at identifying areas for improvement within the operating room setting and implementing appropriate changes as needed.
  • Sanitized, selected and organizing instruments, equipment and supplies according to surgeon preferences.
  • Optimized resource utilization by accurately tracking inventory levels of critical supplies and equipment needed for surgeries.
  • Utilized sterile techniques and infection-control guidelines to maintain clean and safe environment.
  • Coordinated with surgeons and staff to deliver safe patient care during operations.
  • Collected, labeled and transported specimens and delivered to lab for testing.
  • Prepped operating rooms to comply with environmental asepsis standards.
  • Assisted physicians in operating room by providing necessary supplies and equipment.
  • Provided direct support to surgical team during procedures.
  • Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety, and rights of patient.
  • Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
  • Collaborated with members of patients' healthcare team to deliver appropriate level of care.
  • Monitored patients' vital signs and administered medications per physician orders or good practices.
  • Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.

Burn ICU RN

Blake Medical Center
06.2018 - 05.2019
  • Decreased length of hospital stay by facilitating early mobility programs and promoting optimal pain management strategies.
  • Served as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare providers, ensuring clear communication of treatment plans and progress updates throughout the duration of care.
  • Streamlined workflow processes within the Burn ICU through active participation in continuous quality improvement initiatives and staff meetings.
  • Reduced patient complications by promptly identifying signs of infection and collaborating with the interdisciplinary team for appropriate interventions.
  • Managed critical situations efficiently with rapid response skills during emergent events such as airway compromise or hemorrhage control procedures.
  • Educated patients on wound care management and post-discharge instructions to ensure smooth transitions from acute care settings to home or rehabilitation facilities.
  • Ensured continuity of care by effectively communicating with other healthcare professionals, maintaining detailed documentation, and participating in interdisciplinary rounds.
  • Maximized resource utilization by monitoring and adjusting equipment settings for optimal patient care delivery while minimizing waste.
  • Increased patient satisfaction by providing compassionate care, addressing concerns, and involving families in the decision-making process.
  • Provided emotional support for patients experiencing psychological distress related to their burn injuries, connecting them with appropriate mental health resources when necessary.
  • Enhanced patient recovery by implementing evidence-based burn care practices and closely monitoring progress.
  • Upheld ethical nursing standards by advocating for patient rights, maintaining confidentiality, and practicing within personal scope and professional boundaries.
  • Facilitated timely diagnostic testing by coordinating with ancillary departments such as radiology or laboratory services to optimize patient care delivery.
  • Maintained regulatory compliance within the Burn ICU setting through adherence to state licensing guidelines and national accreditation standards for specialized units.
  • Collaborated with surgical teams during skin grafting procedures to provide seamless perioperative support for patients requiring reconstructive surgeries after burn injuries.
  • Promoted a safe environment by adhering to infection control protocols, performing regular equipment checks, and maintaining proper supplies in the unit.
  • Improved patient outcomes through expert assessment, diagnosis, and treatment plan development for complex burn injuries.
  • Assessed and managed various patient treatments for numerous patient diagnoses from sepsis to acute respiratory distress.
  • Conducted patient assessments, recorded vitals, and analyzed records and charts to define care requirements.
  • Oversaw various aspects of telemetry by administering pa catheters and arterials, vasoactive drugs, titration, thrombolytic therapy, dysrhythmia interpretation, and chest tubes.
  • Coordinated with healthcare staff from various disciplines to devise, carry out, and manage personalized care plans to benefit patient health and recovery.
  • Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
  • Administered medications and treatments as ordered by physician.
  • Assessed and documented changes in patient's condition and prepared patient for transfer to higher level of care.
  • Guided patients, caregivers, and family members on plans of treatment and helpful resources available locally to support care.

ICU Nurse

MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center
10.2014 - 05.2018
  • Enhanced patient recovery by implementing individualized care plans and closely monitoring progress.
  • Provided high-quality care for critically ill patients, resulting in improved outcomes and reduced hospital stays.
  • Utilized evidence-based practices in daily nursing care, leading to improved patient outcomes and overall unit performance.
  • Promoted a culture of safety within the unit through adherence to protocols and effective communication among staff members.
  • Served as a mentor for new nursing staff members, providing guidance on best practices in the Cardiac ICU setting.
  • Served as an advocate for patients, ensuring their wishes were respected and incorporated into care plans when possible.
  • Streamlined communication among healthcare professionals to ensure cohesive patient care strategies and timely interventions.
  • Managed rapidly changing situations by quickly assessing and responding to patients'' needs with appropriate interventions.
  • Reduced complications through diligent monitoring of vital signs, medication administration, and maintaining sterile environments.
  • Ensured compliance with regulatory standards by following established protocols for infection control, medication administration, and documentation procedures.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement comprehensive treatment plans for cardiac ICU patients.
  • Optimized resource allocation by effectively managing supplies and equipment within the Cardiac ICU unit.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on advancements in Cardiac ICU nursing practices.
  • Contributed to interdisciplinary team meetings discussing complex cases, leading to improved coordination of care for critically ill patients.
  • Maintained accurate documentation of patient information, assessments, interventions, and responses to treatments.
  • Fostered strong relationships with patients'' families by providing emotional support and education about their loved ones'' conditions.
  • Improved patient satisfaction by addressing concerns and providing thorough education on diagnosis, treatment, and preventive measures.
  • Conducted patient assessments, recorded vitals, and analyzed records and charts to define care requirements.
  • Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
  • Administered medications and treatments as ordered by physician.
  • Coordinated with healthcare staff from various disciplines to devise, carry out, and manage personalized care plans to benefit patient health and recovery.
  • Assessed and documented changes in patient's condition and prepared patient for transfer to higher level of care.
  • Guided patients, caregivers, and family members on plans of treatment and helpful resources available locally to support care.
  • Trained and coached new employees on protocols and best practices to promote ideal patient outcomes.

Clinical Leader

MercyOne North Iowa Home Care
09.2013 - 10.2014
  • Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based clinical practices and protocols.
  • Developed and implemented new policies and procedures, promoting adherence to best practices and regulatory standards.
  • Participated in continuous education programs to maintain current knowledge of industry trends and advancements in patient care techniques.
  • Served as a key liaison between patients, families, and healthcare providers, facilitating effective communication regarding treatment options and care decisions.
  • Created educational materials for staff and patients.
  • Assessed effectiveness of clinical nursing interventions and programs.
  • Explained side effects from medications and provided in-depth education to patients on diabetes, asthma, cancer, and other diseases.
  • Reviewed patient health status and developed individualized care plans.
  • Enhanced patient care by implementing evidence-based clinical practices and protocols.
  • Continuously evaluated clinical workflows for opportunities to improve efficiency, ultimately leading to increased patient satisfaction and better use of resources.
  • Participated in regular clinical audits to ensure adherence to established policies, procedures, and care standards within the nursing team.
  • Reduced hospital readmissions by closely monitoring patients'' progress and adjusting care plans as necessary.
  • Supported colleagues through peer consultation on challenging cases for improved problem-solving approaches in patient care management.
  • Assisted in developing policies and procedures to maintain compliance with industry standards, regulations, and best practices.
  • Conducted staff training sessions on emerging healthcare trends, enhancing overall team knowledge and expertise.
  • Reviewed charts weekly to complete quality control checks.
  • Administered performance evaluations and probationary reviews to assess nursing personnel.
  • Evaluated nursing staff's performance and developed education programs and professional development opportunities to improve individual and team competencies, clinical knowledge and delivery of care.
  • Interacted effectively with department managers to promptly correct problems and improve services.
  • Collaborated with physicians and interdisciplinary teams to devise and manage individualized plans of care.
  • Oversaw training, staffing and education of all nurses and ancillary staff.
  • Supervised professional and paraprofessional nursing staff and delegated tasks to maintain continuum of care.
  • Supervised team of 12 nurses and 5 clinical nursing assistants.
  • Monitored clinical staff performance and provided feedback.

ER Registered Nurse

MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center
03.2008 - 09.2013
  • Planned, prioritized and provided nursing care by applying advanced specialty clinical nursing knowledge and skills to support comfort and safety of patients and families.
  • Developed strong relationships with colleagues across departments, fostering a collaborative work environment that enhanced overall patient care delivery processes.
  • Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining a high level of attention to detail under pressure during busy shifts in the ER department.
  • Increased efficiency within the triage system by prioritizing cases based on severity levels.
  • Observed and recorded signs, symptoms, behaviors and physiological status of patient.
  • Maintained a clean and safe environment for patients and staff, adhering to infection control protocols and reducing the risk of hospital-acquired infections.
  • Enhanced patient care by conducting thorough assessments and developing individualized nursing plans.
  • Assembled equipment and supplies for diagnostic or treatment procedures in specialty service areas.
  • Coordinated discharge planning processes effectively resulting in a smoother transition for patients back into their communities.
  • Adhered to required infection control, isolation procedures and aseptic techniques in delivery of patient care.
  • Contributed to a reduction in medication errors by implementing a double-check system for drug administration.
  • Provided emotional support for patients and families, fostering trust and rapport during challenging situations.
  • Participated in ongoing education initiatives to remain current on best practices in emergency nursing care.
  • Assisted physicians with diagnostic procedures, providing critical support during emergency situations.
  • Collected laboratory samples and performed testing in accordance with established policies and procedures and COLA and CLIA regulations.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans, maximizing patient outcomes.
  • Streamlined the admission process for patients, resulting in reduced waiting times and improved patient satisfaction.
  • Mentored new nursing staff members, promoting professional development and enhancing the overall quality of care provided within the ER setting.
  • Improved patient safety by identifying and addressing potential risks and implementing preventative measures.
  • Maintained accurate medical records for each patient, ensuring proper documentation of interventions, evaluations, and progress updates.
  • Facilitated effective communication between healthcare professionals, ensuring accurate information sharing and timely decisionmaking.
  • Administered prescribed medications and treatments, adhering to hospital protocols and regulatory guidelines.
  • Actively participated in quality improvement initiatives by identifying areas for potential improvement and suggesting evidence-based solutions.
  • Fostered professional collaboration and participation of staff in decisions affecting patient care and practice environment.
  • Evaluated the effectiveness of implemented nursing interventions regularly through feedback from both patients and other healthcare team members.
  • Served as an advocate for patients'' rights by addressing concerns or complaints related to their care promptly.
  • Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
  • Communicated openly and collaboratively with all healthcare staff to organize successful patient care.
  • Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
  • Cared for as many as 15 patients each day, quickly identifying concerns, controlling symptoms and providing expert emergency care.
  • Educated patients and answered questions about health condition, prognosis, and treatment.
  • Delivered important IV and venous medications to control symptoms and provide effective treatments.
  • Answered codes quickly and orchestrated efficient, skilled medical care.
  • Teamed on trauma and emergency interventions involving serious head injuries, gunshot wounds, and thoracic trauma.
  • Recorded details regarding therapies to keep patient charts updated.
  • Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
  • Performed frequent checks on life support equipment and made necessary adjustments to preserve optimal patient conditions.
  • Provided exceptional care to high-acute patients needing complex care such as ventilator management, extensive wound care and rehabilitation.
  • Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
  • Delivered high level of quality care to diverse populations while overseeing patient admission and triaging based on acuity and appropriate department admission.
  • Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injuries and illnesses.
  • Observed and documented patient factors such as diets, physical activity levels, and behaviors to understand conditions and effectively modify treatment plans.
  • Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
  • Sustained quality standards by performing routine medication audits and upholding internal and industry best practices.
  • Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically-ill patients.
  • Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
  • Offered exceptional care and support to individuals recovering from acute incidents and dealing with chronic conditions.
  • Reported findings to quality departments after conducting routine restraint audits and worked with team to devise corrective actions for deficiencies.

Medical Surgical Registered Nurse

MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center
03.2006 - 03.2008
  • Promoted a safe environment for patients by adhering to infection control protocols, fall prevention strategies, and other safety measures.
  • Prevented complications for post-operative patients through careful monitoring, early detection of issues, and prompt intervention when needed.
  • Managed caseload of [Number] patients simultaneously by providing bedside care, treatments, IV therapy, and wound care.
  • Assessed patient conditions accurately by conducting comprehensive physical assessments, interpreting diagnostic tests, and utilizing critical thinking skills.
  • Assisted with wound care, dressing changes and NG tube placement to maintain stable patient conditions.
  • Educated patients on self-care techniques such as wound management, medication administration, and lifestyle modifications to promote long-term wellness.
  • Provided inpatient care to diverse population of adult medical and surgical patients.
  • Administered blood products and monitored vital signs to address immediate concerns.
  • Educated patients and families on disease diagnosis, prognosis and post-operative care.
  • Effectively managed time and prioritized tasks to ensure timely administration of medications, treatments, and procedures.
  • Improved patient satisfaction scores by consistently providing compassionate, empathetic, and culturally sensitive care.
  • Provided emotional support for patients facing serious diagnoses or end-of-life decisions, fostering trusting relationships with both patients and their families.
  • Participated in staff meetings, educational opportunities, and quality improvement initiatives to stay current on best practices within the field of medical-surgical nursing.
  • Educated patients and families on medical-surgical procedures, therapeutic regimens, and pain management techniques.
  • Monitored patients before, during and after surgical operations to evaluate patient care.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to optimize patient outcomes through effective communication and care coordination.
  • Monitored and managed pain levels of post-surgical patients to reduce unnecessary opiate usage.
  • Administered IV medications, monitoring and documenting patient responses to address complications.
  • Contributed to a positive work culture by serving as a mentor for new nurses and participating in shared governance initiatives within the organization.
  • Facilitated efficient discharge planning with case managers, social workers, therapists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals involved in the treatment plan.
  • Demonstrated adaptability during critical situations by remaining calm under pressure while providing high-quality care for patients experiencing acute or life-threatening conditions.
  • Started intravenous fluids, administered medications, and documented patient charts by recording food and fluid output and intake.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to facilitate comprehensive patient-centered care.
  • Decreased medication errors by diligently following the five rights of medication administration and double-checking orders with pharmacy staff when necessary.
  • Provided patient-centered discharge planning and education to reduce complications and readmissions.
  • Performed nursing assessments and developed patient-specific treatment plans to deliver comprehensive care.
  • Reduced hospital readmissions by providing thorough discharge education and follow-up instructions for patients and their families.
  • Liaised with physicians to coordinate and assist with patient examinations and treatments.
  • Managed patients' pain by implementing pharmacological and non-pharmacological pain management interventions.
  • Assisted with bedside procedures such as central line insertions, lumbar punctures, and chest tube placements by ensuring proper equipment set-up and maintaining aseptic technique.
  • Acted as an advocate for patients'' needs while maintaining adherence to legal requirements and ethical nursing practices.
  • Enhanced patient recovery by implementing evidence-based nursing interventions and individualized care plans.
  • Mitigated risks related to potential medical errors by proactively identifying and addressing discrepancies in patient charts, medications, or treatment plans.
  • Streamlined nursing workflows by effectively delegating tasks to ancillary staff according to scope of practice guidelines.
  • Monitored patient vital signs to perform thorough condition assessments.
  • Provided health education to patients and families regarding discharge instructions and plans of care.
  • Monitored hemodynamic variances to identify signs of life-threatening complications.
  • Managed patient pain relief and sedation by providing non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions.
  • Performed emergency medical procedures such as BLS, ACLS and other condition stabilizing interventions.
  • Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
  • Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety, and rights of patient.
  • Performed intravenous therapy procedures and monitored chest tubes.
  • Observed and documented patient factors such as diets, physical activity levels, and behaviors to understand conditions and effectively modify treatment plans.
  • Sustained quality standards by performing routine medication audits and upholding internal and industry best practices.
  • Provided exceptional care to high-acute patients needing complex care such as ventilator management, extensive wound care and rehabilitation.
  • Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
  • Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically-ill patients.
  • Conveyed treatment options, diagnosis information and home care techniques to patients and caregivers to continue care consistency.
  • Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
  • Promoted patient and family comfort during challenging recoveries to enhance healing and eliminate non-compliance problems.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

Chamberlain University
Downers Grove, IL
02.2015

Associate of Science - Nursing

North Iowa Area Community College
Mason City, IA
05.2005

High School Diploma -

Clear Lake High School
Clear Lake, IA
05.1994

Skills

  • Fluid Management
  • Airway Management
  • IV Insertion
  • Patient Positioning
  • Specimen Collection
  • Sterile technique
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Basic Life Support
  • Critical Thinking
  • HIPAA Compliance
  • Patient Safety
  • Patient Communication
  • Patient Charting
  • Patient and Family Education
  • Medication Administration
  • Infection Control
  • Patient Advocacy
  • Chart updating
  • Emergency Response
  • EMR Software
  • Attention to Detail
  • Compassionate and Caring
  • Strong Clinical Judgment
  • Direct Patient Care
  • Delegation and Motivation
  • Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
  • Accurate Documentation
  • Procedure Assistance
  • Student Precepting
  • Case Review
  • Critical Care
  • Clinical Assessments
  • Discharge Planning
  • Diagnostic Testing
  • Preoperative Checklists
  • IV Administration
  • Complex Medical Terminology
  • Medication and IV administration
  • Patient and family advocacy
  • Patient Care Assessment
  • Monitoring Vital Signs
  • Blood Draw and Sample Collection
  • Vitals monitoring
  • Clear Patient Communication
  • Wound Care
  • Microsoft Office
  • Intravenous therapy
  • Documentation
  • Collecting vitals
  • Training staff
  • Intake and discharge
  • Diabetes management
  • Cardiac monitors
  • Immunizations and Vaccinations
  • Tracheostomy Care
  • Equipment Sterilization
  • Nursing Performance Assessment
  • Instrument Sterilization
  • Oxygen saturation standards
  • EMR / EHR
  • Procedure Room Preparation
  • Home care
  • Chronic Disease Management
  • Test Interpretations

Timeline

Circulating OR Nurse

Orthopaedic Outpatient Surgery Center (OOSC)
03.2024 - Current

Clinic II RN

Iowa Heart Center
01.2024 - 03.2024

Circulating OR Nurse

SCA
03.2023 - 12.2023

ICU Nurse

Lovelace Medical Center
01.2023 - 03.2023

ICU Nurse

Advent Health North Pinellas
01.2022 - 01.2023

Circulating Nurse, Operating Room

Mason City Surgery Center
06.2019 - 10.2021

Burn ICU RN

Blake Medical Center
06.2018 - 05.2019

ICU Nurse

MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center
10.2014 - 05.2018

Clinical Leader

MercyOne North Iowa Home Care
09.2013 - 10.2014

ER Registered Nurse

MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center
03.2008 - 09.2013

Medical Surgical Registered Nurse

MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center
03.2006 - 03.2008

Bachelor of Science - Nursing

Chamberlain University

Associate of Science - Nursing

North Iowa Area Community College

High School Diploma -

Clear Lake High School
Tracy Patten