Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Yvette Pope

Pueblo,CO

Summary


Dynamic individual with hands-on experience in medical and psychiatric nursing and talent for navigating challenges. Brings strong problem-solving skills and proactive approach to new tasks. Known for adaptability, creativity, and results-oriented mindset. Committed to making meaningful contributions and advancing organizational goals.

Patient-oriented Nurse with 25+ years of diverse experience in direct patient care, staff supervision and department operations. Skilled at multitasking and prioritizing patient needs and daily assignments. Offering expertise with a multitude of different specialties.

Accomplished nursing leader with extensive experience at the State of Colorado, adept in clinical leadership and quality improvement. Demonstrated success in enhancing patient care through effective staff evaluation and professional development. Skilled in multidisciplinary team collaboration and healthcare administration, with a strong work ethic and problem-solving abilities. Achieved significant reductions in hospital-acquired infections, underscoring a commitment to excellence in nursing ethics and patient education.

Overview

34
34
years of professional experience

Work History

Assistant Director of Nursing/Program Chief Nurse

State of Colorado
09.2018 - 11.2024
  • Executive nursing leader of over 300+ nursing personnel providing nursing services to over 100+ patients being treated on 4-6 patient treatment units.
  • Executive nursing leader of units serving acute, male, female, geriatric, and adolescent psychiatric patients.
  • Performed hospital wide Administrator on call duties according to a rotating calendar schedule.
  • Performed interim Director of Nursing duties during Director of Nursing absence.
  • Participated in executive management team meetings to discuss patient status, patient treatment goals, nursing services provided to help meet treatment goals and evaluation of patient goal outcomes.
  • Collaborated with all vertical and horizontal nursing staff, executive and middle treatment team management, and external groups to coordinate and ensure exceptional patient care.
  • Monitor nursing schedules and optimized staffing levels to maintain an appropriate nurse to patient ration so as to ensure nursing is maintaining high-quality patient care.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop efficient care strategies tailored to individual patient needs.
  • Contributed to the accreditation process ensuring nursing compliance with regulatory agencies by maintaining up-to-date knowledge of laws, guidelines, and best practices related to nursing care management and evidence based nursing practices.
  • Participated in the review and development of policies and procedures for safe patient care nursing practices minimizing errors within the department.
  • Developed of nursing specific medical based assessment tools.
  • Served as a role model for nursing staff by demonstrating exceptional nursing management and clinical skills, ethical behavior, and actions encouraging nursing staff success.
  • Enhanced staff performance through training sessions, skills based evaluations and professional development opportunities.
  • Coordinated with interdisciplinary treatment team on complex cases, ensuring seamless communication among healthcare professionals involved in patient care.
  • Promoted a culture of teamwork by encouraging open communication among staff members and facilitating collaboration across departments.
  • Participated in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing and improving overall safe patient service delivery.
  • Implemented infection control measures, reducing hospital-acquired infections significantly over time.
  • Identified department issues and developing corrective actions to help resolve.
  • Ensuring treatment teams were developing comprehensive care plans for patients, ensuring optimal health outcomes and patient satisfaction.
  • Ensured adherence to safety guidelines for both patients and staff members during all aspects of clinical operations.
  • Improved patient care by implementing evidence-based nursing practices and protocols.
  • Evaluated assigned workload for 300+ nursing staff providing direct patient care under my supervision.
  • Evaluated and supported work performance for 300+ nursing personnel by recognizing and promoting exceptional care, identifying areas needing training, requiring additional training as necessary, providing constructive feedback and issuing of corrective or disciplinary action according to Colorado State Personnel Board rules and regulations.

Unit Lead Nurse

State of Colorado
05.2017 - 08.2018
  • Supervised 25+ nursing personnel providing nursing services to over 24+ psychiatric patients.
  • Advocated for the needs of both patients and nursing staff, leading to improved working conditions and better overall outcomes.
  • Collaborated with healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive care plans addressing each patient''s unique needs and goals.
  • Ensured unit nursing compliance with all relevant regulatory guidelines through diligent monitoring efforts and proactive staff development.
  • Overseeing patient discharges and transfers to other units, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal disruptions to care continuity.
  • Streamlined nursing processes for efficiency, allowing for optimal patient care and time management.
  • Developed strong relationships with interdisciplinary teams, ensuring seamless coordination of patient care.
  • Participated in the development of departmental goals and objectives, contributing insights gleaned from frontline experience to inform strategic planning initiatives.
  • Implemented quality improvement initiatives that improved patient treatment and safety measures.
  • Championed continuous learning opportunities for staff members through training sessions, contributing to heightened levels of competency among colleagues.
  • Conducted ongoing assessments of patient needs to ensure accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment plans.
  • Served as a valued liaison between medical staff members from various disciplines, improving interdisciplinary communication and collaboration efforts.
  • Led a team of nursing staff in providing high-quality care to patients while maintaining a professional working environment.
  • Managed complex cases with multiple medical issues, effectively prioritizing tasks for efficient resolution of problems encountered during treatment process.
  • Mentored new nursing staff, fostering a supportive and educational atmosphere for growth and development.
  • Ensuring nursing staff are educating patients on preventative health measures, promoting positive lifestyle choices and self-management techniques.
  • Consistently met or exceeded performance goals set by hospital administration in areas such as infection control rates and average length-of-stay figures.
  • Provided compassionate care to patients through effective communication and active listening skills, enhancing overall patient satisfaction rates.
  • Utilized data-driven decision-making techniques to optimize resource allocation, improving overall performance metrics within the department.
  • Collaborated with leadership to devise initiatives for improving nursing satisfaction, retention and morale.
  • Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
  • 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.
  • Led teams in driving successful patient outcomes by prioritizing standard of care and best practices.
  • Participated in evidence-based practice project implementation, nursing competency development and nursing simulation activities.
  • Sustained quality standards by performing routine nursing care audits and upholding internal and industry best practices.
  • Leveraged feedback and process improvement opportunities to create safer and healthier environment and increase patient satisfaction.
  • Reported findings to quality departments after conducting routine restraint audits and worked with team to devise corrective plan of actions for deficiencies.

Nurse II/Charge Nurse

State of Colorado
08.2015 - 04.2017
  • Charge RN over 6-8 nursing staff members providing nursing services to 24+ psychiatric patients.
  • Assign and directly supervise nursing specific direct patient care during shift ensuring hospital policies, best nursing practices, strict safety guidelines, and Colorado State laws were being followed.
  • Participate in an efficient shift handover process which improved continuity of care between nursing shifts.
  • Streamlined communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive understanding of care plans.
  • Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
  • Assess patients' complaints and current symptoms utilizing thorough and complete nursing assessment knowledge, develop a treatment plan, initiate nursing care interventions and evaluate treatment progress towards goals.
  • Documented all nursing care, education, discharge/transfer instructions, and follow-up care provided.
  • Observed and documented patient factors such as diets, physical activity levels, and behaviors to understand conditions and effectively modify treatment plans.
  • Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients in easy-to-understand terms.
  • Offered exceptional care and support to individuals recovering from acute incidents and dealing with chronic conditions.
  • Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injuries and illnesses.
  • Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically-medical and psychiatrically ill patients.
  • 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.
  • Facilitated therapeutic communication, conflict resolution and crisis intervention by redirecting negative behaviors and helping patients regain or improve coping abilities.
  • Reported findings to quality departments after conducting routine restraint audits and worked with lead nurse corrective actions for deficiencies.
  • Collaborated with leadership to devise initiatives for improving nursing satisfaction, retention and morale.
  • Remained calm during high-stress, critical situations, demonstrating sustained focus and problem-solving in real-time.
  • Educated patients on disease management, self-care techniques, and wellness strategies to improve long-term health outcomes.
  • Improved patient satisfaction ratings by delivering compassionate and personalized care.
  • Implemented infection control measures that significantly reduced hospital-acquired infections.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams for optimized patient treatment plans and outcomes.
  • Mentored new nursing staff members, fostering teamwork and improving unit efficiency.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge on emerging trends in nursing practice to enhance effectiveness in delivering quality care.
  • Performed accurate documentation of patient assessments, interventions, and outcomes in compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Performed routine wound care and dressing changes on schedule.
  • Promoted a safe and comfortable healing environment by addressing patient concerns promptly and professionally.

CDOC Nursing Quality Care Coordinator

State of Colorado
06.2012 - 07.2015
  • Reviewed/tracked/trended all Colorado Department of Correction (CDOC) quality incidents, and participated in the development of state wide, prison specific or individual specific corrective action plans.
  • Used company software and databases to maintain records of off Department of Correction quality incidents.
  • Submitted all reportable required incidents to Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).
  • Collaborated and partnered directly with CDPHE regarding quality initiatives and infection control issues state wide.
  • Provided on site nursing expertise investigation details, conclusion and recommendations regarding all Colorado Department of Correction (CDOC) critical incidents.
  • Conducted all death investigative reviews for CDOC.
  • Maintained, tracked and assigned an CDOC state wide peer reviews.
  • Assisted in CDOC state wide employee health programs.
  • CDOC Training Academy nursing instructor
  • CDOC Training Academy Prison Rape Elimination Act instructor.
  • Participated in the review and development of CDOC policies, standards and protocols.
  • Provided coverage for the CDOC State Wide Infection Control Nurse.
  • Served as the CDOC Nursing specific expert in nursing specific care to offenders.
  • Served as the CDOC Nursing specific expert in nursing safety and security measures for the department.
  • Served on numerous special investigative teams at the request of prison Wardens and CDOC Executive staff.
  • Conducted interdisciplinary services audits on care provided to offenders.
  • Developed and implemented individual, prison specific or state wide mass casualty education/trainings.
  • Provided CDOC Quality Manager duties/responsibilities during her absence and position vacancy.

RN I - RN III (Intermittent Positions 1997-2012)

State of Colorado
11.1997 - 05.2012
  • Charge RN to first line RN supervisor of 1-2 CDOC prisons.
  • RN serving both female and male offenders throughout career.
  • Provided daily RN nursing care/services/treatment for offenders with chronic health condition to include but not limited to endocrine, cardiac, respiratory, autoimmune, opthalmology, gynecology, neurology, dermatology, and hematology. This included determining next course of action to preserve life or limb.
  • Provide emergent/urgent nursing care services stabilizing offenders with traumatic illness/injury to include but not limited to attempted suicide, stabbings, drug overdoses, MI, CVA, DKA, anaphylaxis, farm injuries, industrial injuries, and welding injuries. This included determining next course of action to preserve life or limb.
  • Tracked statically, monitored health and compliance, educated and served as the prison Chronic Care Nurse expert for offenders and prison officials.
  • Tracked statically, monitored health and compliance, educated and served as the prison Infection Control Nurse expert for offenders and prison officials. This include the management of outbreaks such as MRSA and Chickenpox.
  • Educated offenders on disease management and self-care techniques, promoting lifestyle changes for improved health.
  • Implemented infection control measures within the unit, maintaining a safe environment for both offenders and staff members.
  • Tracked statically, monitored facility/CDOC policy, procedure, standard compliance, provided staff education and served as the prison Quality Nurse expert for prison officials. This include tracking trending issues and development a corrective action plan to correct.
  • Served as the nursing American Correctional Association (ACA) expertise when developing nursing safety and security or medical/nursing specific direct patient care services prison specific practices. This include educating staff and preparing the prison for ACA audits/inspections.
  • Utilized advanced clinical skills such as wound care management or IV therapy administration, leading to faster recovery times for offenders treated under my supervision.
  • Completed phlebotomy lab collections.
  • Administered medications accurately and safely, reducing medication errors and adverse reactions.
  • Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
  • Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
  • Served as a liaison between physicians and offenders to facilitate clear communication regarding treatment options and progress updates.
  • Mentored new nursing staff, contributing to a supportive work environment and improved retention rates.
  • Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
  • Managed offenders recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
  • Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
  • Led teams in driving successful patient outcomes by prioritizing standard of care and best practices.
  • Delivered high level of quality care to diverse populations while overseeing offender admission and triaging based on acuity and appropriate department admission.
  • Sustained quality standards by performing routine audits and upholding internal and industry best practices.
  • Performed frequent checks on life support equipment and made necessary adjustments to preserve optimal offender conditions.
  • Reported findings to quality departments after conducting routine restraint audits and worked with team to devise corrective actions for deficiencies.

Health Service Administrator

State of Colorado
03.2008 - 08.2009
  • Prison Health Service Administrator supervising a multidisciplinary team providing offender care services including medical, nursing, drug and alcohol, sex offender treatment, mental health services, and dental. The teams consisted of over 50+ subordinates.
  • Prison Health Service Administrator for a prison which served general population offenders and infirmary unit.
  • Prison Health Service Administrator for both a male and female prison.
  • Provided on call services/coverage to ensure proper efficiency and effectiveness of medical services provided to prison offenders.
  • Served as a prison management team member collaborating closely with safety/security and operational team members.
  • Served as a critical incident command team member during a prison specific critical incident.
  • Served on several task forces providing nursing specific investigative expertise at the request of prison Wardens or Executive Team members. This required exceptional collaborative efforts working closely with safety and security experts.
  • Served as the Americal Correctional Association health service expert ensuring compliance to regulatory standards.
  • Reviewed, tracked and trended all prison quality incident report, development of corrective actions as necessary to improve health services.
  • Recruited and responsible for the orientation and training of new healthcare staff members.
  • Tracked and evaluated statistical data on healthcare activities to make effective program decisions.
  • Oversaw recruitment efforts for clinical and administrative staff, building a highly skilled team dedicated to exceptional offender care.
  • Organized and managed contracts directly related to strategic mission of healthcare system.
  • Analyzed current offender health programs to determine effectiveness.
  • Provided in-depth support to executive staff in regards to healthcare programs and administration.
  • Analyzed population health trends to inform strategic planning efforts, aligning organizational goals with facility needs.
  • Created and implemented organizational policies and procedures.
  • Guided implementation of new technology solutions designed to increase productivity while maintaining data security protocols within the organization.
  • Conducted routine facility inspections, identifying areas needing improvement and eliminating hazards posed to staff and offenders for continued compliance with associated regulations.
  • Designed and introduced leadership development, coaching and team management model, resulting in promotion of employees into increased levels of responsibility.
  • Monitored and inspected staff processes to eliminate hazards posed for both offenders and staff while ensuring continuous compliance with regulations.
  • Enhanced staff training programs by identifying professional development needs and providing targeted educational resources.
  • Implemented data-driven decision-making processes to identify areas for improvement in service delivery, resulting in more efficient workflows.
  • Attended and participated in CDOC nursing leadership meetings.
  • Monitored staff patient care flow to ensure effectiveness and efficiency.
  • Ensures that all medical equipment was inspected and maintained appropriately to prevent hazards/injuries.
  • Organized staff scheduling arrangements that ensured adequate coverage during peak hours while balancing employee work-life balance concerns effectively while adhering to State of Colorado Personnel Board Rules.
  • Evaluated health care staff performance, promoted and rewarded exceptional performance and development of plans necessary for areas needing improvement to include providing feedback, training, and corrective actions as necessary.
  • Ensure adequate stock of equipment and supplies necessary to ensure effective and efficient employment and offender services.

CNA - LPN - RN (Intermittent 1990-1997)

Sangre De Cristo Hospice
11.1990 - 07.1997
  • Intermittently throughout 1990 to 1997 I was employed for Hospice in many different roles.
  • Cared for clients of all ages with terminal diagnoses such as respiratory failure, cancer, Parkinson's disease, muscular sclerosis and muscular dystrophy.
  • Maintained confidentiality of patient information according to HIPAA guidelines while communicating effectively with team members about critical updates.
  • Utilized proper body mechanics and assistance devices when transferring patients, minimizing the risk of injury for both parties.
  • Assisted with feeding and monitored intake to help patients achieve nutritional objectives.
  • Prevented bedsores by regularly repositioning patients and implementing proper wound care techniques.
  • Delivered individualized patient care by recording vital signs, documenting observations, administering treatments, and evaluating patient needs.
  • Provided emotional support for patients during challenging times, fostering a positive end of life treatment and living environment.
  • Assisted patients with daily living activities, promoting independence and dignity.
  • Aid patients with shaving, bathing, and teeth brushing.
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction by providing compassionate and attentive care.
  • Implemented fall prevention measures by identifying high-risk patients and maintaining clutter-free environments around bedsides.
  • Reduced patient stress levels through effective communication, comfort measures and active listening skills.
  • RN on call offering immediate assistance in emergency and routine paging situations to evaluate needs and deliver care.
  • Oversaw and maintained patients' care plans
  • Assisted in emergency situations under the direction of nursing supervisors or physicians, providing crucial support during end of life interventions as a CNA.
  • Conducted basic RN physical assessments on new admissions to gather baseline data for nursing staff evaluation.
  • Conducted ongoing RN physical assessments on assigned patients to determine ongoing end of life care needs.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to develop and implement individualized care plans for patients.
  • Served as a liaison between patients, families, and medical staff to ensure clear communication and understanding of treatment plans.
  • Administered prescribed medications and treatments ensuring adherence to safety protocols.
  • Utilized therapeutic communication, empathy and active listening skills to encourage and develop positive relationships with patients.
  • Documented patient information and care activities in health record.
  • Responded to patient requests for supplies and personal comfort items such as extra blankets.
  • Observed patients under care conditions to help identify symptoms, responses to treatments and progress with goals.
  • Support patient and family in end of life process.
  • Respond, assess, and communicate with physician of patient death.

LPN - RN

Southern Colorado Clinic
05.1993 - 06.1995
  • Covered as a float nurse working with multiple different areas within Southern Colorado Clinic including Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, GI, and urgent care.
  • Utilized time management skills to prioritize tasks effectively, allowing for efficient completion of daily responsibilities.
  • Maintained accurate documentation of all relevant clinical data, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Implemented infection control measures, ensuring a clean and safe environment for patients and staff.
  • Managed patient care through closely monitoring respiration, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels.
  • Administered controlled narcotics, inserted IVs, and performed catheterizations.
  • Assisted with appointments.
  • Performed wound care treatments using sterile techniques, promoting healing and preventing complications.
  • Adhered to treatment plan instructions when administering medications and treatments to patients.
  • Improved patient outcomes by providing high-quality nursing care and closely monitoring vital signs.
  • Cared for wounds, provided treatments, and assisted with procedures.
  • Reduced medication errors by accurately administering medications and diligently verifying patient information.
  • Documented accurate and complete patient information to address patient problems and expected outcomes.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge base and skillset as an LPN.
  • Demonstrated adaptability in working with diverse patient populations across various healthcare settings.
  • Provided emotional support to patients and families during difficult times, fostering positive relationships built on trust and compassion.
  • Performed routine evaluations of each patient's status, needs, and preferences.
  • Enhanced patient satisfaction levels through effective communication and empathetic listening skills.
  • Used aseptic techniques to provide sterilized wound care and dressing applications.
  • Answered incoming phone calls from patients to provide basic assistance and triage medical concerns.
  • Accurately recorded interactions in medical charts, documenting accidents and interventions applied.
  • Addressed any concerns or questions posed by patients or family members promptly to maintain confidence in their care plan.
  • Monitored, tracked, and conveyed important patient information to healthcare staff to help optimize treatment planning and care delivery.
  • Assisted in the management of chronic health conditions by providing education, support, and follow-up care.
  • Provided compassionate end-of-life care, ensuring that patients were comfortable and families felt supported during the process.
  • Educated patients and caregivers on medical diagnoses, treatment options, chronic disease self-management and wound management.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary team of healthcare and social service providers to address patients' needs through effective intervention and care planning.
  • Conducted thorough patient assessments to identify medical needs and develop appropriate treatment plans.
  • Evaluated patients to identify and address wounds, behavioral concerns, and medically relevant symptoms.
  • Gathered lab specimens, ordered testing, and interpreted results to diagnose patients.
  • Assisted physicians during examinations or procedures as needed, playing a vital role in the overall patient experience.
  • Contributed to continuous quality improvement efforts by identifying areas for potential growth within the nursing practice.
  • Minimized staff and patient infection risk by cleaning and disinfecting equipment instruments.
  • Administered medications and injections to patients.
  • Assessed patients' temperature, pulse, and blood pressure and recorded in electronic medical records.
  • Reviewed patient history to verify conditions and current medications.
  • Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
  • Responded to patient requests with appropriate clinical and personal assistance.
  • Coordinated patient transfers to other facilities.
  • 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.
  • Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
  • Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.

Education

Associate of Applied Science - Nursing

Pueblo Community College
Pueblo, CO
05-1993

Skills

  • Exceptional assessment skills
  • Exceptional documentation skills
  • Nursing management
  • Case management
  • Clinical leadership
  • Patient education
  • Clinical assessment
  • Care coordination
  • Quality improvement
  • Quality control
  • Staff evaluation
  • Professional development
  • Multidisciplinary team collaboration
  • Recruiting and hiring
  • Behavioral health
  • Healthcare administration
  • Shift scheduling
  • Long-term care
  • Process improvement
  • Accreditation coordination
  • Mass casualty incident planning
  • Clinical care oversight
  • Clinical documentation
  • Programs development
  • Nurse education and training
  • Leadership and guidance
  • Strong work ethic
  • Policies compliance enforcement
  • Effective multitasking
  • HIPAA regulations
  • Critical thinking
  • Direct patient care
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Acute care
  • Standards of practice
  • Disease control
  • Nursing ethics
  • Documentation and reporting
  • Risk management
  • Emergency response
  • Policy development
  • Chronic disease management
  • Quality improvement initiatives
  • Nursing recruitment
  • HIPAA guidelines
  • Customer service
  • Problem-solving
  • Attention to detail

Timeline

Assistant Director of Nursing/Program Chief Nurse

State of Colorado
09.2018 - 11.2024

Unit Lead Nurse

State of Colorado
05.2017 - 08.2018

Nurse II/Charge Nurse

State of Colorado
08.2015 - 04.2017

CDOC Nursing Quality Care Coordinator

State of Colorado
06.2012 - 07.2015

Health Service Administrator

State of Colorado
03.2008 - 08.2009

RN I - RN III (Intermittent Positions 1997-2012)

State of Colorado
11.1997 - 05.2012

LPN - RN

Southern Colorado Clinic
05.1993 - 06.1995

CNA - LPN - RN (Intermittent 1990-1997)

Sangre De Cristo Hospice
11.1990 - 07.1997

Associate of Applied Science - Nursing

Pueblo Community College
Yvette Pope