Vanessa Potter
Kalamazoo,MI
Summary
Compassionate RN Case Manager experienced in Acute and Home care case management along with a strong background in Emergency departments, triage and outpatient clinic environments. Hardworking and dedicated to achieving desired case outcomes. Proactive and resourceful with strong knowledge of community resources. Strong communicator with passion for helping others.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
RN Case Manager
Bronson Methodist Hospital
01.2020 - Current
- Current Case Manager of busy 18-bed ED Admission unit.
- Case Management experience in Orthopedic Surgical Unit/ Covid Investigational Unit, General Medical Unit.
- Identified care needs of individual patients and coordinated responses based on physician advice, insurance limitations, and procedural costs.
- Evaluated treatment plans against individual goals and healthcare standards.
- Managed support services and fostered communication among social workers, therapists, hospital staff, and patients.
- Consulted with clinicians to devise and manage ongoing care plans for at-risk patients.
- Educated patients and loved ones about different treatment options and outside care approaches to reduce the burden on hospital resources.
- Reduced care costs without sacrificing quality through service coordination and multidisciplinary collaboration.
- Addressed delays in discharge, postponed procedures, and discharge equipment unavailability.
- Effectively communicated with physicians regarding patient needs, performance, medications, and changes.
- Completed initial assessments of patients and families to determine and address individual home care needs. ·
- Coordinated with interdisciplinary professionals to develop plans of care, administer tests, and monitor patient status.
- Advocated for patients by communicating care preferences to practitioners, verifying interventions met treatment goals, and identifying insurance coverage limitations.
- Evaluated healthcare needs, goals for treatment, and available resources of each patient and connected to optimal providers and care.
- Responded promptly and professionally to patient questions and concerns.
- Participated in the patient and family planning process, as well as provided instructions, and addressed questions and concerns.
- Liaised with physicians regarding patient needs, performance, and changes.
- Conducted regular re-evaluations to address changes in needs and conditions, introducing revisions to care plans.
- Assessed and examined patients and documented history of current and previous conditions, diseases, and injuries along with medications currently being taken.
- Authored initial assessments of patients and families to develop plans for individual home care needs.
- Worked with suppliers and vendors on the provision of medical equipment, items, and services.
RN Case Manager
Bronson at Home
06.2017 - 01.2020
- Home Care Case manager performed Oasis admissions and discharges, complex wound care including wound vac device management, and specialized wound dressing techniques. Managed Peripherally inserted central lines and ports. Educated on various IV infusion devices both CADD Prizm Ambulatory-Pumps and Elastomeric home infusion devices. Educated on Kangaroo pumps for enteric feedings.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions, reportable signs and symptoms, safe home oxygen use, and fall prevention.
- Education on Heart failure, Diabetes, wound and dressing management, and post-cardiac surgery care.
- Accurately documented treatments, and performed medication reviews. Provided Education and troubleshooting for various peripherally inserted devices. IVs antibiotics and TPN administration and education provided. Collected lab specimens and coordinated with primary care providers and infectious disease physicians to manage care and ongoing treatment needs.
- Performed comprehensive start-of-care assessments in the home for new home care clients.
- Partnered with physicians, social workers, activity therapists, nutritionists, and case managers to develop and implement individualized care plans and documented patient interactions and interventions in electronic charting systems.
- Identified care needs of individual patients and coordinated responses based on physician advice, and insurance limitations related to supplies and medications.
- Evaluated treatment plans against individual goals and healthcare standards.
- Educated patients and loved ones about different treatment options and outside care approaches to reduce burdens on hospital resources.
- Reduced care costs without sacrificing quality through service coordination and multidisciplinary collaboration.
- Consulted with clinicians to devise and manage ongoing care plans for at-risk patients. Collaborated with healthcare team including wound care clinics and primary care physician offices to implement interventions for wound healing and skin breakdown prevention.
- Attended wound care education programs to gain knowledge on the most recent techniques and procedures available.
- Developed treatment plans according to current wound care protocols.
- Identified patients requiring debridement procedures and alerted participating wound centers and primary care physicians.
- Demonstrated dressing techniques to educate and orient in-service nurses.
- Implemented plans to prevent pressure ulcers and other wound developments.
- Assessed and treated wounds and burns, requiring wound vacs and various wound dressing products.
- Instructed patients and caregivers on how to clean and dress wounds and how to prevent infections.
- Treated and carefully tended to vascular and diabetic ulcers.
- Provided post-surgery treatment and care for patients with ostomies. Provided education on ostomy products and self-application for autonomy in their self-care.
- Documented and examined patient recovery and reported progress to doctors for effective management.
- Maintained comprehensive understanding of genitourinary, gastrointestinal, and integumentary systems and provided treatment for wounds impacting them.
- Completed initial assessments of patients and families to determine and address individual home care needs. ·
- Advised patients on proper nutrition and offered holistic solutions to severe conditions.
- Identified nutritional deficiencies and coordinated with personnel to solve nutrition problems.
- Effectively communicated with physicians regarding patient needs, performance, medications, and changes.
- Collaborated with administrative and pharmacy staff to plan refill scheduling and deliveries of medications.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
Registered Nurse
Bronson Lakeview Emergency Department
07.2016 - 06.2017
- Performed Charge, Triage, and staff nurse functions in Critical Access Emergency Department. Cared for up to 20 patients per shift.
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Educated patients, families, and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process and management, and lifestyle options.
- Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
- Provided direct patient care, stabilized patients, and determined next course of action.
- Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Implemented medication and IV administration, catheter insertion, and airway management.
- Managed care from admission to discharge.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Collected blood, tissue, and other laboratory specimens and prepared for lab testing.
- Communicated openly and collaboratively with all healthcare staff to organize successful patient care.
- Answered codes quickly and orchestrated efficient, skilled medical care.
- Educated patients and answered questions about health conditions, prognosis, and treatment.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Administered different therapies and medications in line with physician orders and treatment plans.
- Collaborated with law enforcement on criminal cases by quickly reporting injuries and collecting needed evidence.
- Kept optimal supply levels in treatment rooms, triage, and other areas to meet typical patient loads.
- Teamed on trauma and emergency interventions involving serious head injuries, gunshot wounds, and thoracic trauma.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Accurately documented treatment, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement, and enhance treatment strategies.
- Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
- Provided skilled, timely, and level-headed emergency response to critically ill patients.
- Offered exceptional care and support to individuals recovering from acute incidents and dealing with chronic conditions.
- Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security of unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
- Adhered to strict safety measures by carefully determining proper dosages before administering medications.
- Cared for patients in Critical Access Emergency Department, supporting fellow nurses in delivering outstanding treatment to patients.
- 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.
- Facilitated therapeutic communication, conflict resolution, and crisis intervention by redirecting negative behaviors and helping patients regain or improve coping abilities.
- Assessed and evaluated mental health needs, working with multidisciplinary team to initiate, manage, and modify individualized care plans.
- Implemented care plans for patient treatment after assessing physician medical regimens.
- Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviors and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.
- Participated in evidence-based practice project implementation, nursing competency development, and nursing simulation activities.
- Collaborated with leadership to devise initiatives for improving nursing satisfaction, retention, and morale.
- Performed frequent checks on life support equipment and made necessary adjustments to preserve optimal patient conditions.
- Participated in Shared Governance to discuss policies, propose revisions, and implement changes.
Registered Nurse
Bronson Battle Creek Hospital Emergency Department
04.2015 - 07.2016
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Educated patients, families and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process and management and lifestyle options.
- Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures and safety protocols.
- Provided direct patient care, stabilized patients and determined next course of action.
- Administered medications via oral, IV and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Implemented medication and IV administration, catheter insertion and airway management.
- Managed care from admission to discharge.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Collected blood, tissue and other laboratory specimens and prepared for lab testing.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- Monitored patient condition by interpreting and tracking EKG readings, identifying irregular telemetry readings and updating team members on changes in stability or acuity.
- Monitored patient reactions to drugs and carefully documented findings.
- Organized and managed care of patients undergoing various therapies and procedures.
- Conferred with physicians to discuss diagnoses and devise well-coordinated treatment approaches.
- Advocated for patients by communicating care preferences to practitioners, verifying interventions met treatment goals and identifying insurance coverage limitations.
- Advised patients and caregivers of proper wound management, discharge plan objectives, safe medication use and disease management.
- Taught patients how to improve lifestyle choices, dramatically reducing chance of symptom reoccurrence.
- Secured controlled narcotics and distributed medication on schedule to meet patient needs and minimize misuse opportunities.
- Maintained quality care and comfort for patients with heart failure, pulmonary hypertension and other conditions.
- Provided exceptional care to high-acute patients needing complex care such as ventilator management, extensive wound care and rehabilitation.
- Managed quality care for patients with heart failure, end-stage renal disease and coronary artery disease.
- Participated in nursing simulation activities, evidence-based practice project implementation and competency development to further nursing education.
- Audited charts and reviewed clinical documents to verify accuracy.
- Contributed substantially to successful department JCAHO accreditation by consistently operating to highest standards of care.
- Kept optimal supply levels in treatment rooms, triage and other areas to meet typical patient loads.
- Teamed on trauma and emergency interventions involving serious head injuries, gunshot wounds and thoracic trauma.
- Orchestrated quality-driven, cost-effective care in high-volume trauma center setting.
- Delivered proper care to victims of domestic violence at urgent care clinic.
Resource Registered Nurse
Allegan General Hospital Pain Management Center
06.2014 - 12.2014
- Returned to Allegan ED after working with opening the Pain Management center.
- Educated family members, and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Obtained training from parent organization in Ohio. Implemented staff education and training for opening a new pain management practice. Worked with pain management Physician and practice manager to implement practice policies and protocols.
- Received referrals and evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Accurately documented treatment, medications, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement, and enhance treatment strategies.
- Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Advocated for and strived to protect the health, safety, and rights of patients.
- Tracked, reviewed, and monitored diagnostic test results and assisted in the management of patient care between visits.
- Completed paperwork and prior authorizations and scheduled appointments for patients.
- Contacted patient's primary care providers to establish anticoagulation holds for upcoming invasive pain management procedures.
- Administered different therapies and medications in line with physician orders and treatment plans.
Registered Nurse
Allegan General Hospital Emergency Department
10.2011 - 04.2015
- Staff, Charge, and Triage RN in 11-Bed Critical Access Emergency Department.
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Educated patients, families, and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process and management, and lifestyle options.
- Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
- Provided direct patient care, stabilized patients, and determined next course of action.
- Answered codes quickly and orchestrated efficient, skilled medical care.
- Communicated openly and collaboratively with all healthcare staff to organize successful patient care.
- Vaccinated patients to protect individuals from Rabies by following Rabies protocol.
- Educated patients and answered questions about health conditions, prognosis, and treatment.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- Teamed on trauma and emergency interventions involving serious head injuries, gunshot wounds, and thoracic trauma.
- Kept optimal supply levels in treatment rooms, triage, and other areas to meet typical patient loads.
- Administered different therapies and medications in line with physician orders and treatment plans.
- Collaborated with law enforcement on criminal cases by quickly reporting injuries and collecting needed evidence to support Meaningful use upgrades.
- Implemented and performed staff training on newly acquired Paragon electronic medical record system organization-wide.
- Placed new supply orders, managed inventory, and restocked clerical spaces.
- Accurately documented treatment, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
- Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Greeted visitors and initiated triage processes for clients to streamline patient flow.
- Adhered to strict safety measures by carefully determining proper dosages before administering medications.
- Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
- Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security of unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
- Provided skilled, timely, and level-headed emergency response to critically ill patients.
- Promoted patient and family comfort during challenging recoveries to enhance healing and eliminate non-compliance problems.
- Delivered high level of quality care to diverse populations while overseeing patient admission and triaging based on acuity and appropriate department admission.
- Assessed and evaluated mental health needs, working with multidisciplinary team to initiate, manage, and modify individualized care plans.
- Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviors and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.
- Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
- Advocated for and strived to protect health, safety, and rights of patients.
Triage / Practice Registered Nurse
Bronson Lakeview Family Practice
01.2010 - 10.2011
- Remained Per Diem with Bronson Lakeview Family Practice for a few months while working at Allegan General Hospital Emergency Department.
- Worked as the practice Telephonic and clinic-based RN for Five Family Practice Physicians.
- Prepared and administered vaccines and medications, collected specimens and performed other patient care tasks to assist physicians with examinations and procedures.
- Completed paperwork and prior authorizations and scheduled appointments for patients.
- Counseled patients via telephone according to established guidelines and protocols, advising on provider-established plans of care.
- Relayed triage information and facilitated communication between provider and patient concerning patient disposition.
- Scheduled appointments for patients not requiring emergency services but needing examination from provider and consulting directly with provider.
- Performed additional clinic and non-triage nurse duties such as instructing patients in general and specific medical care and health issues and administering or dispensing medication and injections.
- Assisted in management of patient utilization of health care system and provided patient education relative to health care needs, use of community resources, and responsibilities of membership in managed care.
- Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- Obtained case history and gathered triage information to determine appropriate avenue for care.
- Tracked, reviewed, and monitored diagnostic test results and assisted in management of patient care between visits.
- Assessed patient health status based upon presenting symptoms and directed patient to appropriate level of care or acceptable alternative venue.
- Reinforced health education, counseling, and advice to patients and families and assessed patient educational needs, prioritized patient learning needs, identified barriers to learning and used educational tools to encourage non-adherent patients.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement, and enhance treatment strategies.
- Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
- Built meaningful relationships with patients and families for optimal care.
- Administered medications and topical treatments to address patient symptoms.
- Prepared Patients for visits, performed clinical tasks, assessed vital signs, assisted with female examinations, performed set up and take down for in-office procedures along with sterile urinary catheterizations and other office procedures.
- Cleaned and stocked rooms. Prepared charts for upcoming visits.
Registered Nurse
Bronson Methodist Hospital Emergency Department
06.2008 - 01.2010
- Managed High acuity patient teams consisting of 4-6 patient beds.
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Educated patients, families, and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process and management, and lifestyle options.
- Provided direct patient care, stabilized patients, and determined next course of action.
- Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Managed care from admission to discharge.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Collected blood, tissue, and other laboratory specimens and prepared for lab testing.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- Monitored patient condition by interpreting and tracking EKG readings, identifying irregular telemetry readings, and updating team members on changes in stability or acuity.
- Monitored patient reactions to drugs and carefully documented findings.
- Organized and managed care of patients undergoing various therapies and procedures.
- Secured controlled narcotics and distributed medication on schedule to meet patient needs and minimize misuse opportunities.
- Maintained quality care and comfort for patients with heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and other conditions.
- Participated in nursing simulation activities, evidence-based practice project implementation, and competency development to further nursing education.
Registered Nurse
Bronson Methodist Hospital Medical Intensive Care Unit
01.2008 - 06.2008
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Educated patients, families, and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process and management, and lifestyle options.
- Provided direct patient care, stabilized patients, and determined next course of action.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Collected blood, tissue, and other laboratory specimens and prepared for lab testing. Utilized collection techniques of drawing arterial blood specimens for ABGs and drew specimens from arterial lines.
- Maintained airways, on intubated medically complex patients.
- Managed pain and sedation in patients
- Performed head-to-toe assessments, and one-on-one physical care.
- Organized and replenished unit supplies to maintain team readiness for expected demands.
- Responded to patient emergencies with immediate care and notified clinicians to provide comprehensive assistance.
- Obtained patient vital signs and reported results to staff nurse or physician, noting changes from prior measurements.
- Offered immediate assistance in emergency and routine paging situations to evaluate needs and deliver care.
- Assisted with feeding and monitored intake to help patients achieve nutritional objectives.
- Monitored, tracked, and conveyed important patient information to healthcare staff to help optimize treatment planning and care delivery.
Research Nurse
Jasper Clinical Research
01.2007 - 01.2008
- Educated study participants on patient care instructions.
- Assisted in design of recruitment strategies.
- Recruit participants according to IRB-approved methodologies.
- Ensured that studies were implemented in full compliance with FDA Regulations and Guidelines, Good Clinical Practices (GCP).
- Maintained study files, provided copies of forms to study sponsor, IRB, general clinical research center, FDA including reporting of SAEs, AEs per regulatory and institutional guidelines.
- Evaluated and enrolled patients in clinical research studies.
- Performed study procedures (e.g., start intravenous lines, venipunctures, obtain biological specimen samples, obtain ECG recordings, vital signs, safety assessments, ) as required by study protocol under supervision of Clinical Research Coordinator, Principal Investigator, and Sub-Investigators.
- Integral member of clinical research team who provided direct nursing care to research study participants.
- Participated in individualized training/orientation programs geared to teaching or reinforcing principles of Clinical Nursing Research
- Facilitated and participated in execution of study-related activities of Phase I and Phase III clinical research studies.
- Collaborated closely with Principal Investigator (PI) and clinical research team to ensure that key federal/state/local regulatory requirements were followed.
Registered Nurse
Bronson Trauma and Emergency and Chest Pain Observation Unit
10.2005 - 01.2007
- Assessed and managed up to eight patient teams separately and differently from patients in general flow of emergency department. Provided dedicated care for suspected cardiac patients requiring further testing and treatment decision-making.
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Prepared patients for cardiac stress testing. Assessed functional health status of patients with cardiac disorders, and documented and reported deviations for expected findings.
- Educated patients, families, and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process and management, and lifestyle options.
- Provided direct patient care, stabilized patients, and determined next course of action.
- Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Managed care from admission to discharge.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Collected blood, tissue, and other laboratory specimens and prepared for lab testing.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- Monitored patient condition by interpreting and tracking EKG readings, identifying irregular telemetry readings, and updating team members on changes in stability or acuity.
- Monitored patient reactions to drugs and carefully documented findings.
- Organized and managed care of patients undergoing various therapies and procedures.
- Secured controlled narcotics and distributed medication on schedule to meet patient needs and minimize misuse opportunities.
- Maintained quality care and comfort for patients with heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and other conditions.
- Participated in nursing simulation activities, evidence-based practice project implementation, and competency development to further nursing education.
Registered Nurse
Bronson General Surgery Unit
01.2005 - 10.2005
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Educated patients, families and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process and management and lifestyle options.
- Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures and safety protocols.
- Provided direct patient care, stabilized patients and determined next course of action.
- Administered medications via oral, IV and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Implemented medication and IV administration, catheter insertion and airway management.
- Managed care from admission to discharge.
- Collected blood, tissue and other laboratory specimens and prepared for lab testing.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- Monitored patient condition by interpreting and tracking EKG readings, identifying irregular telemetry readings and updating team members on changes in stability or acuity.
- Monitored patient reactions to drugs and carefully documented findings.
- Organized and managed care of patients undergoing various therapies and procedures.
- Conferred with physicians to discuss diagnoses and devise well-coordinated treatment approaches.
- Evaluated healthcare needs, goals for treatment and available resources of each patient and connected to optimal providers and care.
- Advised patients and caregivers of proper wound management, discharge plan objectives, safe medication use and disease management.
- Advocated for patients by communicating care preferences to practitioners, verifying interventions met treatment goals and identifying insurance coverage limitations.
- Taught patients how to improve lifestyle choices, dramatically reducing chance of symptom reoccurrence including smoking cessation diabetic and heart failure management.
- Secured controlled narcotics and distributed medication on schedule to meet patient needs and minimize misuse opportunities.
- Oversaw delivery of care for patients on medical-surgical unit, providing direct care, delegating nursing assignments, and supervising team comprised of nurses, LPNs, technicians and unit clerks.
- Contributed substantially to successful department JCAHO accreditation by consistently operating to highest standards of care.
- Kept optimal supply levels in treatment rooms, triage and other areas to meet typical patient loads.
- Started intravenous fluids, administered medications and documented patient charts by recording food and fluid output and intake.
- Educated patients and families on medical-surgical procedures, therapeutic regimens and pain management techniques.
- Managed caseload of 6-7 patients simultaneously by providing bedside care, treatments, IV therapy and wound care.
- Managed patients' pain by implementing pharmacological and non-pharmacological pain management interventions.
- Used McKesson to document patient plan of care by taking into account nursing interventions, diagnosis and expected patient outcomes.
- Inserted catheters and completed tracheostomy care for patients.
Registered Nurse
Bronson Trauma
01.2003 - 01.2005
- Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
- Educated patients, families, and caregivers on diagnosis and prognosis, treatment options, disease process and management, and lifestyle options.
- Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
- Provided direct patient care, stabilized patients, and determined next course of action.
- Maintained quality care and comfort for patients with heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and other conditions.
- Conferred with physicians to discuss diagnoses and devise well-coordinated treatment approaches.
- Assisted with insertion of central lines and endotracheal tubes as part of trauma team.
- Managed care from admission to discharge.
- Implemented medication and IV administration, catheter insertion, and airway management.
- Monitored patient condition by interpreting and tracking EKG readings, identifying irregular telemetry readings, and updating team members on changes in stability or acuity.
- Advised patients and caregivers of proper wound management, discharge plan objectives, safe medication use, and disease management.
- Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
- Orchestrated quality-driven, cost-effective care in high-volume trauma center setting.
- Audited charts and reviewed clinical documents to verify accuracy.
- Provided didactic and clinical instructions to orient new nurses and potential student nurses to achieve training outcomes.
- Organized and managed care of patients undergoing various therapies and procedures.
- Monitored patient reactions to drugs and carefully documented findings.
- Delivered proper care to victims of domestic violence.
- Updated patient charts with data such as medications to keep records current and support accurate treatments.
- Advocated for patients by communicating care preferences to practitioners, verified interventions met treatment goals.
- Kept optimal supply levels in treatment rooms, triage, and other areas to meet typical patient loads.
- Managed quality care for patients with heart failure, end-stage renal disease, and coronary artery disease.
- Teamed on trauma and emergency interventions involving serious head injuries, gunshot wounds, and thoracic trauma.
- Participated in nursing simulation activities, evidence-based practice project implementation, and competency development to further nursing education.
- Contributed substantially to successful department JCAHO accreditation by consistently operating to highest standards of care.
- Administered medications and treatment to patients and monitored responses while working with healthcare teams to adjust care plans.
- Secured controlled narcotics and distributed medication on schedule to meet patient needs and minimize misuse opportunities.
- Provided exceptional care to high-acute patients needing complex care such as ventilator management, extensive wound care, and rehabilitation.
- Collected blood, tissue, and other laboratory specimens and prepared for lab testing.
- Taught patients how to improve lifestyle choices, dramatically reducing chance of symptom reoccurrence.
Licensed Practical Nurse
Bronson Trauma and Emergency and Express Care
01.2002 - 01.2003
- Lab collection utilizing chain of command for urine drug screens for pre-employment physicals.
- Followed Blood and Body fluid exposure protocols for employees and patients.
- Documented accurate and complete patient information to address patient problems and expected outcomes.
- Administered controlled narcotics, inserted IVs and performed catheterizations.
- Performed routine evaluations of each patient's status, needs and preferences.
- Obtained patient vital signs and input/output measurements from inpatients.
- Managed patient care through closely monitoring respiration, blood pressure and blood glucose levels.
- Monitored, tracked and conveyed important patient information to healthcare staff to help optimize treatment planning and care delivery.
- Used aseptic techniques to provide sterilized wound care and dressing applications.
- Comforted and counseled patients and families throughout care process.
- Cared for wounds, provided treatments and assisted with procedures.
- Gathered lab specimens, ordered testing and interpreted results to diagnose patients.
- Delivered updates in patient status to charge nurse, recording changes in medical records.
- Educated patients and caregivers on medical diagnoses, treatment options, chronic disease self-management and wound management.
- Obtained biological specimens for ordered tests and prepared for laboratory transport.
- Minimized staff and patient infection risk by cleaning and disinfecting equipment instruments.
- Assisted with feeding and monitored intake to help patients achieve nutritional objectives.
- Supported physicians during examinations and scans to assist with diagnostic procedures.
- Monitored and tracked patient vitals in McKesson to keep team informed of changing conditions.
Unit Clerk/Patient Care Nursing Assistant
Bronson Methodist Hospital Emergency Department
01.2000 - 01.2002
- Unit Clerk/PCA in Busy Level One Trauma Emergency Department
- Answered unit calls and took messages for healthcare staff to maximize team productivity.
- Answered multi-line telephone system, provided information, and directed calls.
- Documented updates to patient information in medical charts while maintaining HIPAA compliance and protecting confidentiality of records.
- Arranged discharges and patient transportation.
- Delivered clerical support by handling range of routine and special requirements.
- Charted vital signs and added telemetry strips to charts.
- Orchestrated efficient and thorough replenishment of unit supplies to handle forecasted patient loads.
- Coordinated diagnostic tests, collection of samples, and transportation to scanning rooms.
- Received, recorded, and addressed incoming and outgoing communication via telephone.
- Placed new supply orders, managed inventory, and restocked clerical spaces.
- Assisted doctors with examinations of patients by taking vital signs and drawing blood.
- Monitored patients' comfort and safety during examinations and tests to alert physicians of abnormalities and changes in patient response.
- Utilized hospital beds and wheelchairs to transport patients throughout hospital.
- Collected basic samples, labeled specimens properly, and transferred to laboratory for testing.
- Assisted in obtaining and documenting vital signs and placement of oxygen saturation, cardiac monitoring, and non-invasive blood pressure monitoring systems.
- Quickly responded to codes and cardiac monitor alarms.
- Measured and fit crutches and canes, instructing patients on proper use of support devices.
- Worked with nurses to assess patients and prepare for tests and procedures.
- Administered basic wound care, and performed sterile urinary catheterizations.
- Safely transported patients by wheelchair, stretcher, or bed to other units.
- Received direction and assignments from physicians and nurses, providing efficient technical support to optimize patient care.
- Carried out phlebotomy procedures and watched for adverse reactions.
- Continuously monitored patients and reported changes to head nurses and physicians.
- Liaised between nurses, physicians, patients, and visitors.
- Decontaminated and sanitized all equipment, instruments, and supplies.
- Assisted patients with limited mobility in dressing and undressing, bathing, and other day-to-day needs.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Western Governer's University
Salt Lake City, UT10.2019
Associate of Applied Science - Nursing
Kalamazoo Valley
Kalamazoo, MI12.2003
Certificate Award Nursing, Licensed Practical Nurse -
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Kalamazoo, Michigan2002
Skills
- Judgment and Decision-Making
- Multitasking and Organization
- Complex Problem-Solving
- Customer Service
- Critical Thinking
- Resource Identification
- Case Planning and Management
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Resource Management
- Community Resources
- Coordination
Accomplishments
- Shared Governance Committee Case Management 2023- Current
- QAPI committee Bronson at Home
- Western Governors University RN to BSN October 21, 2019
- BLS, Emergency Nurse Pediatric Course, Basic Disaster Life Support courses completed
- Trauma Nurse Core Curriculum completed while actively working in ED.
- 2017 Emergency Department Charge Nurse Bronson Lakeview Emergency Department.
- Bronson Lakeview Emergency Department- Epic Steering Committee and Nursing Shared Leadership Committee
- April 1, 2016 Emergency Nurse Pediatric Course Instructor Course completed at Bronson Battle Creek Emergency Department, Registered Nurse, Preceptor to new staff and students.
- Staff training for Paragon Computer implementation and Meaningful use upgrades at Allegan General Hospital
- Superstar Award for Customer Service Excellence, Allegan General Hospital
- Preceptor, Allegan General Hospital Emergency Department
- Bronson Methodist Hospital Performance Improvement Committee, Trauma and Emergency Department Magnet committee,
- Trauma and Emergency, Emergency Department Observation Unit Shared Governance Committee,
- General Surgery Unit Safety Champion,
- Bronson Trauma and Emergency Department Rising Star Award, Bronson Methodist Hospital
Timeline
RN Case Manager
Bronson Methodist Hospital
01.2020 - Current
RN Case Manager
Bronson at Home
06.2017 - 01.2020
Registered Nurse
Bronson Lakeview Emergency Department
07.2016 - 06.2017
Registered Nurse
Bronson Battle Creek Hospital Emergency Department
04.2015 - 07.2016
Resource Registered Nurse
Allegan General Hospital Pain Management Center
06.2014 - 12.2014
Registered Nurse
Allegan General Hospital Emergency Department
10.2011 - 04.2015
Triage / Practice Registered Nurse
Bronson Lakeview Family Practice
01.2010 - 10.2011
Registered Nurse
Bronson Methodist Hospital Emergency Department
06.2008 - 01.2010
Registered Nurse
Bronson Methodist Hospital Medical Intensive Care Unit
01.2008 - 06.2008
Research Nurse
Jasper Clinical Research
01.2007 - 01.2008
Registered Nurse
Bronson Trauma and Emergency and Chest Pain Observation Unit
10.2005 - 01.2007
Registered Nurse
Bronson General Surgery Unit
01.2005 - 10.2005
Registered Nurse
Bronson Trauma
01.2003 - 01.2005
Licensed Practical Nurse
Bronson Trauma and Emergency and Express Care
01.2002 - 01.2003
Unit Clerk/Patient Care Nursing Assistant
Bronson Methodist Hospital Emergency Department
01.2000 - 01.2002
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Western Governer's University
Associate of Applied Science - Nursing
Kalamazoo Valley
Certificate Award Nursing, Licensed Practical Nurse -
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
SEWING, SOAP MAKING, FARMING, HORSEBACK RIDING AND PHYSICAL FITNESS.
My husband and I own and operate a farm with cattle, goats, chickens, and a very spoiled horse. I have both guardian and herding dogs on the farm. They assist with herding cattle and chickens as well. I enjoy sewing and crafting. My main interests are creating wonderful goat's milk soaps from my very own goats. I also ride horseback, love swimming, and enjoy riding my bike on nature trails around West Michigan
Similar Profiles
Emily CottinghamEmily Cottingham
Registered Nurse, Pediatric Sedation at Bronson Methodist HospitalRegistered Nurse, Pediatric Sedation at Bronson Methodist Hospital
Victoria GreeneVictoria Greene
Registered Nurse at Bronson Methodist HospitalRegistered Nurse at Bronson Methodist Hospital
Joely HendersonJoely Henderson
RN Floor Nurse at Bronson Methodist HospitalRN Floor Nurse at Bronson Methodist Hospital