Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Timeline
Generic

Joan Bichsel

Quincy

Summary

Driven registered nurse with several years of experience caring for patients within setting. Smoothly deliver comprehensive patient care and delegate tasks according to patient needs and personnel skillsets. Dedicated to providing top quality care within multidisciplinary team environment.

Overview

31
31
years of professional experience

Work History

Registered Nurse

Blessing Hospital
Quincy
03.2017 - Current
  • Assisted physicians during examinations and surgical procedures to enhance patient care.
  • Evaluated, planned, implemented, and assessed nursing care for assigned patients.
  • Performed triage assessments for walk-in patients in a clinic environment.
  • Maintained adherence to infection control policies, ensuring a safe environment for all patients.
  • Counseled patients on medication side effects and necessary lifestyle changes for improved health outcomes.
  • Demonstrated capability to work both independently and collaboratively within a healthcare team.

Registered Nurse, Emergency Department

Blessing Hospital
Quincy
06.1994 - Current
  • Conducted regular rounds throughout the department ensuring a safe environment for staff and patients.
  • Facilitated discharge planning process to ensure continuity of care after leaving the facility.
  • Developed individualized plans of care based on each patient's needs.
  • Utilized evidence-based practice guidelines for appropriate nursing interventions.
  • Provided emotional support for patients and their families during times of stress.
  • Ensured compliance with hospital policies and procedures related to safety and infection control measures.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to develop individualized patient care plans.
  • Supported physicians during trauma resuscitations in the Emergency Department.
  • Ensured proper handling of specimens for laboratory testing.
  • Assisted with diagnostic tests such as X-rays, CT scans, ultrasounds.
  • Administered medications, intravenous fluids, treatments, and other therapies as prescribed by physicians.
  • Responded quickly to life-threatening situations utilizing advanced emergency skills.
  • Provided patient care according to established standards and protocols.
  • Performed initial assessment of patients in the Emergency Department, including vital signs and medical history.
  • Assessed changes in patient condition and notified physician as needed.
  • Provided compassionate end-of-life care for terminally ill patients.
  • Monitored cardiac rhythm strips and titrated vasoactive medications as ordered by physicians.
  • Actively participated in staff meetings to discuss current trends in emergency nursing practices.
  • Maintained accurate records of all assessments, treatments, medications administered, and other pertinent information related to patient's care.
  • Administered medications as prescribed by physicians.
  • Participated in educational activities such as seminars or classes related to emergency nursing practices.
  • Supported criminal inquiries by reporting injuries and completing evidence collection kits.
  • Cared for patients experiencing acute traumas, including cardiac arrests, strokes and gunshot wounds.
  • Upheld patient safety standards by preventing unauthorized access or incorrect dosage administration.
  • Maintained open and clear communication with physicians to coordinate effective patient care.
  • Administered critical IV medications to stabilize patients for assessment and treatment.
  • Responded quickly to codes and coordinated efficient and skilled care.
  • Triaged and treated high-volume caseload in busy emergency room setting.
  • Recorded patient condition, vital signs, recovery progress and medication side effects.
  • Maintained inventory of medical supplies and medications, ensuring availability for emergency situations.
  • Conducted patient assessments and diagnostic tests to provide physician with important patient health information.
  • Managed patient triage, prioritizing care based on severity of condition and available resources.
  • Monitored patient vital signs and symptoms, responding rapidly to changes in condition and initiating appropriate interventions.
  • Participated in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and department efficiency.
  • Monitored patient conditions to identify concerning changes and mitigate symptoms.
  • Trained other nurses on patient care and daily tasks, supporting growth, and professional development.
  • Performed comprehensive assessments of patients presenting with a wide range of acute conditions in a high-volume emergency department.
  • Maintained comprehensive base of unit supplies to meet expected patient demands, public health emergencies, and mass casualty incidences.
  • Educated patients and families on disease management, prevention, and healthy lifestyle choices.
  • Utilized advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) and basic life support (BLS) techniques during critical situations.
  • Observed nurse administration of oral, intramuscular, and IV medications to patients as prescribed, monitoring responses for adverse reactions.
  • Collaborated with public safety and community organizations to improve emergency response and patient outcomes.
  • Conducted public health education sessions on emergency preparedness and injury prevention.
  • Assessed patient needs, prioritized treatment, maintained patient flows and assisted physicians with non-invasive procedures.
  • Coordinated care with physicians and other clinical staff to prepare for treatment, carry out interventions, and enhance continuum of care.
  • Assisted in minor surgical procedures and provided post-operative care, ensuring optimal patient outcomes.
  • Facilitated seamless transfer of patients to other units or facilities, ensuring continuity of care.
  • Implemented infection control measures to prevent the spread of contagious diseases within the emergency department.
  • Provided emotional support and guidance to patients and families during stressful situations.
  • Documented all patient interactions, assessments, and interventions in electronic health records with accuracy.
  • Administered medications, treatments, and vaccines as prescribed, adhering to strict safety protocols.
  • Led debriefing sessions following major incidents, contributing to an environment of continuous learning and improvement.
  • Operated and maintained emergency department equipment, performing regular checks for functionality and safety.
  • Delivered information regarding care and medications to patients and caregivers in comprehendible terminology.
  • Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
  • Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
  • Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.
  • Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
  • Administered local, inhalation or intravenous anesthetics to patients undergoing procedures.
  • Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
  • Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
  • Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
  • Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
  • Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
  • Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.

Dialysis Charge Nurse

Davita, Inc & American Renal Associates
Quincy
01.2018 - 03.2023
  • Provided direction to nursing staff regarding appropriate interventions based on assessment findings.
  • Consulted with specialists from other departments regarding specialized treatments or therapies that may be beneficial for certain patients.
  • Ensured all equipment used is properly maintained as per manufacturer guidelines.
  • Assessed patient's physical condition prior to each dialysis session.
  • Developed protocols for managing emergency situations such as anaphylactic shock or cardiac arrest.
  • Educated patients and family members about disease processes, treatments options and self-care management techniques.
  • Conducted regular meetings with nursing staff to discuss ways to improve efficiency and effectiveness of care delivery.
  • Managed daily operations of the Dialysis Unit by overseeing staffing levels, scheduling staff shifts, ensuring adequate supplies are available.
  • Provided direct patient care, including assessing and monitoring vital signs, initiating and managing dialysis treatments, administering medications, and reporting changes in patient condition.
  • Maintained accurate records of patient progress notes, laboratory results, treatment plans, and other pertinent information.
  • Collaborated with interdisciplinary team to develop individualized plan of care for each patient.
  • Actively participated in unit quality improvement initiatives.
  • Participated in continuing education programs to stay current on best practices in renal care.
  • Monitored patients during dialysis sessions for any adverse reactions or complications.
  • Coordinated with physicians regarding patient care decisions including determining when a patient should be referred for further evaluation or hospitalization.
  • Developed policies and procedures related to care delivery within the Dialysis Unit.
  • Advised families on end-of-life decisions when necessary.
  • Served as a resource for colleagues seeking guidance on complex clinical issues.
  • Maintained accurate records of patient assessments, treatments, medications, and progress notes.
  • Assisted in training new nurses on the technical aspects of dialysis treatments.
  • Performed quality assurance activities to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
  • Utilized evidence-based practice guidelines when making decisions about patient care plans.
  • Attached dialyzer and tubing to dialysis machines for use in hemodialysis treatment.
  • Updated medical records with current vitals, behavioral observations and medication details.
  • Boosted clinical accountability and reduced discrepancies by coordinating with other stakeholders to develop and roll out new flow sheet and forms for dialysis treatment.
  • Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
  • Coordinated with healthcare team to establish, enact and evaluate patient care plans.
  • Monitored diet, physical activity, behaviors and other patient factors to assess conditions and adjust treatment plans.
  • Delivered information regarding care and medications to patients and caregivers in comprehendible terminology.
  • Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
  • Utilized computerized Resource and Patient Management System (RPMS) and Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
  • Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
  • Administered oral, IV and intra-muscular medications and monitored patient reactions.
  • Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.
  • Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
  • Stocked clinical workstations and procedure rooms with necessary supplies.
  • Prepared medical equipment and tools to aid physician during examination and treatment of patients.
  • Interpreted and evaluated diagnostic tests to identify and assess patient's condition.
  • Conducted specified laboratory tests to help detect conditions and determine diagnosis.
  • Coordinated discharge planning to ensure continuity of care post-hospitalization.
  • Achieved departmental goals and objectives by instituting new processes and standards for in-patient care.
  • Collaborated with health groups to plan or implement programs designed to improve overall health of communities.
  • Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
  • Assessed patient conditions, monitored behaviors and updated supervising physicians with observations and concerns.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Nursing

Chamberlain College of Nursing
Illinois
05-2014

Master of Science - Nursing Administration

Chamberlain College of Nursing
Illinois

Skills

  • Patient assessment
  • Medication administration
  • Infection control
  • Dialysis management
  • Emergency response
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration
  • Team leadership
  • Quality improvement
  • Equipment maintenance
  • Crisis management
  • Patient education
  • Clinical documentation
  • Critical thinking
  • Medication and IV administration
  • IV drug therapy management
  • SBAR communication
  • Strong clinical judgment
  • Reporting and documentation
  • Nursing staff leadership
  • Critical care
  • Telemetry monitoring
  • Direct nursing care
  • Infection control measures
  • High level of autonomy
  • Physical assessments
  • IV setup
  • Team coordination
  • Direct and indirect patient care
  • Emergency care
  • Family and patient support
  • Lab result interpretation
  • Culturally sensitive
  • Patient satisfaction and process improvement
  • Licensed RN
  • Emergency procedures
  • Medical records management
  • Policy compliance

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Dialysis Charge Nurse

Davita, Inc & American Renal Associates
01.2018 - 03.2023

Registered Nurse

Blessing Hospital
03.2017 - Current

Registered Nurse, Emergency Department

Blessing Hospital
06.1994 - Current

Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Nursing

Chamberlain College of Nursing

Master of Science - Nursing Administration

Chamberlain College of Nursing

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Joan Bichsel