Rena Safirstein

Fundamentals of Nursing, Endeavor Health - Skokie Hospital, 

• Assisted with fundamental patient care, including monitoring vital signs, providing baths, and assisting with feeding under preceptor supervision.
• Supported patients with mobility, personal hygiene, and overall comfort to promote safety and well-being.
• Communicated with patients to obtain health histories and foster trust.
• Maintained precise documentation in patient medical records (EPIC) to ensure effective communication within the healthcare team.
• Adhered to infection control measures, including proper hand hygiene, PPE usage, and patient isolation protocols.

Medical Surgical 1 (Med-Surg) Rotation, Endeavor Health - Skokie Hospital

• Performed physical assessments, including vital sign monitoring, auscultation, and further identifying abnormal findings.
• Assisted with medication preparation and administration, including oral, subcutaneous, and intramuscular injections, under the direct supervision of a licensed nurse.
• Provided essential wound care, including dressing changes and catheter maintenance, while maintaining sterile technique.
• Worked closely with the preceptor and healthcare team to develop patient care plans, supporting recovery goals and treatment strategies.
• Assisted in post-operative patient care, monitoring for complications, managing pain, and encouraging early mobilization.

Pediatric Rotation, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago

• Performed age-appropriate assessments for pediatric patients, including evaluating growth and development, and communicated findings to the preceptor.
• Collaborated with families to provide education, emotional support, and guidance in understanding their plan of care and treatment options.
• Administered pediatric medications under preceptor supervision, ensuring accurate weight-based dosing and safe delivery.
• Utilized therapeutic play techniques to alleviate anxiety in pediatric patients and applied non-pharmacological pain management strategies.
• Monitored and documented developmental milestones, ensuring they aligned with expected pediatric growth patterns.

Obstetric Rotation, Swedish Hospital, Northwestern Memorial Hospital

• Assisted in the assessment and care of pregnant patients in OB triage, including monitoring fetal heart tones and maternal vital signs.
• Observed and participated in labor and delivery processes, including assisting with patient positioning and comfort measures.
• Provided postpartum care by assessing fundal height, lochia, and maternal recovery while educating new mothers on breastfeeding and newborn care.
• Assisted in newborn assessments, including APGAR scoring, weight measurements, and initial screenings.
• Observed and practiced sterile techniques during procedures such as cervical exams, labor induction, and cesarean section preparation.
• Educated patients on prenatal care, postpartum recovery, and newborn care under the supervision of experienced nurses.
• Followed infection control protocols, including proper hand hygiene, PPE use, and safe handling of newborns.

North Park University Student Nurse Association, 01/24- current

• Work alongside fellow nursing students both on and off campus to foster collaboration and support.
• Take part in study groups, workshops, and seminars to enhance learning and skill development.
• Build connections with future nurses, bridging diverse nursing interests and cultivating professional relationships.
• Engage in healthcare-related volunteer activities to give back to the community and gain hands-on experience.

Representative for Nursing Cohort, North Park University, 01/24- 01/25

• Served as the primary liaison between students and faculty, advocating for cohort needs and concerns.
• Facilitated communication by relaying important announcements, policy updates, and academic resources to classmates.
• Organized study groups, peer support initiatives, and collaborative learning opportunities to enhance student success.
• Represented the cohort in faculty meetings, providing feedback on curriculum, scheduling, and clinical experiences.
• Promoted a positive and inclusive learning environment by addressing student concerns and fostering teamwork.

• BLS-CPR through American Heart Association
• PPE training through Northwestern Memorial Hospital
• HIPAA Certification
• Mandated Reporter Training through DCFS
• Epic Hyperspace
• EClinicalWorks
• Microsoft Office