Rebecca J. Hillman
Fenton
Summary
Competent and caring professional offering several years of coordinating and carrying out patient care in high-volume hospital environments. Demonstrated performing with speed and accuracy to assess patients, deliver treatments, and delegate tasks. Proven history of advocating for patient needs and fostering top-quality care.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Telemedicine, Telemetry Nurse, LTACH Nurse
Mercy Hospital St. Louis
St. Louis
08.2012 - Current
- Monitored patient vital signs using telemetry equipment for accurate assessments.
- Collaborated with healthcare teams to develop patient care plans and improve outcomes.
- Administered medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians.
- Educated patients and families on heart health and telemetry procedures.
- Documented patient data in electronic health records for continuity of care.
- Responded promptly to alarms and alerts, ensuring patient safety at all times.
- Assisted in training new staff on telemetry monitoring protocols and procedures.
- Participated in quality assurance audits to maintain compliance with healthcare standards.
- Collaborated with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure quality patient care.
- Educated patients on health conditions and promoted better nutrition and holistic stress relief methods.
- Listed all important information regarding patient health changes, medication side effects and treatments for physician review.
- Evaluated effectiveness of interventions by assessing patient response and making necessary modifications or adjustments as indicated.
- Documented all care given according to established standards of practice and hospital policies and procedures.
- Demonstrated excellent communication skills when interacting with patients, families, visitors, physicians, and other healthcare personnel.
- Conducted regular safety checks on monitoring equipment ensuring proper functioning at all times.
- Identified cardiac dysrhythmias, documented changes in the rhythm strip, and reported any abnormalities to physicians.
- Managed multiple complex cases simultaneously while providing quality nursing care within prescribed time frames.
- Responded quickly and efficiently during code blue scenarios utilizing advanced cardiac life support protocols as necessary.
- Prioritized tasks based on urgency of need while maintaining a calm demeanor during emergencies.
- Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
Dialysis RN (Acute Care Setting)
Total Renal Care (DaVita)
St. Louis
06.2008 - 11.2012
- Administered dialysis treatments to patients with chronic kidney disease.
- Monitored vital signs and assessed patient responses during procedures.
- Collaborated with healthcare team to develop individualized care plans.
- Educated patients and families on dialysis processes and self-care.
- Maintained and sanitized dialysis equipment according to safety protocols.
- Documented patient information accurately in electronic health records.
- Trained new staff on dialysis procedures and patient care techniques.
- Provided emotional support to patients throughout their treatment journey.
- Educated patients on their renal failure diagnosis and how to manage their condition.
- Coordinated with multidisciplinary team members to provide comprehensive care for patients undergoing dialysis treatments.
- Provided direct patient care, including physical assessments and treatments, in a dialysis unit.
- Performed daily machine maintenance, including water testing and filter replacement.
- Assessed patient needs before starting hemodialysis procedure and monitored vital signs throughout treatment process.
- Participated in quality assurance activities within the department by reviewing policies and procedures and providing feedback for improvement.
- Instructed patients on proper home care techniques following discharge from facility.
- Boosted clinical accountability and reduced discrepancies by coordinating with other stakeholders to develop and roll out new flow sheet and forms for dialysis treatment.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
Telemetry Registered Nurse
St. Joseph Hospital West
Lake Saint Louis
02.2008 - 08.2012
- Monitored patient vital signs using telemetry equipment for accurate assessments.
- Collaborated with healthcare teams to develop and implement patient care plans.
- Administered medications and treatments according to established protocols and guidelines.
- Educated patients and families on health conditions and care procedures effectively.
- Documented patient progress and responses in electronic health records promptly.
- Assisted with emergency interventions during critical care situations as needed.
- Trained new nursing staff on telemetry monitoring systems and protocols efficiently.
- Maintained a sterile environment while performing procedures to ensure safety standards.
- Utilized telemetry to monitor patients cardiac status.
- Responded quickly to any changes in patient's condition or vital signs.
- Assessed and monitored patient conditions using telemetry equipment.
- Educated patients on their condition and medications while providing emotional support.
- Developed individualized plan of care for each patient based on assessment data obtained from various sources such as labs, diagnostic tests and other health professionals' reports.
- Maintained current knowledge of healthcare trends, standards of care, treatments, drugs and therapies used in the field of Telemetry nursing.
- Interpreted cardiogram strips accurately and reported abnormal findings immediately.
- Managed intravenous therapy including IV starts, changes, discontinuation per physician orders.
- Collaborated with doctors to plan post-treatment home care and prevent return hospitalization.
- Performed ECG monitoring and interpretation of cardiac rhythms.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives within the unit.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure best possible outcomes for the patient.
- Administered intravenous fluids, medications and other therapies as ordered by physician.
- Conducted assessments on newly admitted patients.
- Monitored vital signs for critically ill patients using advanced technologies and equipment.
- Performed venipuncture for lab draws when needed.
- Identified potential complications or adverse reactions related to treatment plans.
- Provided education to family members regarding post discharge homecare needs.
- Utilized evidence-based practice to improve clinical outcomes.
- Responded to emergency situations with speed, expertise and level-headed approaches to provide optimal care, support and life-saving interventions.
- Maintained strict patient data procedures to comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
- Advocated for patient needs with interdisciplinary team and implemented outlined treatment plans.
- Coordinated discharge planning to ensure continuity of care post-hospitalization.
Registered Nurse, PCU
Access Nurses
St. Louis
11.2007 - 02.2008
- Administered medications and managed IV therapies as per physician orders.
- Monitored patient vital signs and reported changes to the healthcare team.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop patient care plans.
- Educated patients and families on health conditions and post-discharge care.
- Assisted in the implementation of infection control protocols to ensure safety.
- Documented patient assessments and interventions in electronic health records.
- Trained new staff on procedures, protocols, and best practices in patient care.
- Observed, evaluated, recorded and reported symptoms, reactions and progress of residents.
- Instructed patients on disease, treatment and care plan to enhance quality of life and promote positive attitude.
- Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
- Interviewed patients and families to assess needs and risk categories to develop and implement appropriate plans of care.
- Collaborated with physical and occupational therapists and physicians to develop exercise plans tailored to patient's specific needs.
- Responded quickly to emergent situations in order to provide prompt interventions for critically ill patients.
- Performed diagnostic tests such as EKGs and lab draws according to established protocols.
- Utilized evidence-based practice guidelines in providing quality patient care.
- Actively participated in unit meetings regarding changes in policy or procedures related to PCU services.
- Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
- Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.
- Achieved departmental goals and objectives by instituting new processes and standards for in-patient care.
Registered Nurse, PCU
Kennstone Hospital
Marietta
01.2007 - 10.2007
- Monitored patient vital signs and reported changes to the healthcare team.
- Administered medications and managed IV therapies as per physician orders.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop patient care plans.
- Educated patients and families on health conditions and post-discharge care.
- Assisted in the implementation of infection control protocols to ensure safety.
- Documented patient assessments and interventions in electronic health records.
- Provided emotional support and counseling to patients and their families.
- Trained new staff on procedures, protocols, and best practices in patient care.
- Regulated medications and treatments according to physician orders.
- Administered injections and IV therapy and placed IV catheters.
- Observed, evaluated, recorded and reported symptoms, reactions and progress of residents.
- Instructed patients on disease, treatment and care plan to enhance quality of life and promote positive attitude.
- Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
- Interviewed patients and families to assess needs and risk categories to develop and implement appropriate plans of care.
- Collaborated with physical and occupational therapists and physicians to develop exercise plans tailored to patient's specific needs.
- Coordinated communication between physicians, family members, and other healthcare providers involved in the patient's care.
- Responded quickly to emergent situations in order to provide prompt interventions for critically ill patients.
- Maintained accurate medical records of all treatments provided to patients.
- Performed diagnostic tests such as EKGs and lab draws according to established protocols.
- Utilized evidence-based practice guidelines in providing quality patient care.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
- Actively participated in unit meetings regarding changes in policy or procedures related to PCU services.
- Performed assessments of new admissions in order to create individualized plans of care for each patient.
- Helped patients and families feel comfortable during challenging and stressful situations, promoting recovery and reducing compliance issues.
- Observed strict safety measures, including checking medication dosages before administration to patients.
- Referred patients to specialized health resources or community agencies to furnish additional assistance.
Registered Nurse, PCU
Lancaster Regional Hospital
Lancaster
10.2005 - 01.2007
- Provide care for heart patients
- Analyze EKG strips
- Perform charge nurse duties on an occasional basis
- Perform in a team environment
- Care for Post Cardiac Cath patients
- Care for Post CABG patients
- Care for Multi-Surgical patients and patients with cardiac drips
- Monitored patient vital signs and reported changes to the healthcare team.
- Administered medications and managed IV therapies as per physician orders.
- Administered medications and monitored patient responses in clinical settings.
- Collaborated with healthcare teams to develop individualized patient care plans.
- Educated patients on health management and disease prevention strategies.
- Conducted routine assessments to evaluate patient vital signs and conditions.
- Documented patient information accurately in electronic health record systems.
- Provided support to families during critical care situations and emotional distress.
- Mentored junior nursing staff on best practices and clinical protocols.
- Maintained a safe environment for both staff and patients through adherence to safety protocols.
- Educated patients on their medical condition, treatment plans, and self-care management techniques.
- Provided nursing care for patients with various medical diagnoses and treatments.
- Observed and carried out physician and nursing orders.
- Responded quickly and effectively in emergency situations utilizing advanced life saving skills when needed.
- Ensured that all documentation was accurate and up-to-date according to established guidelines.
- Answered patient and family questions to educate on optimal treatment procedures.
- Trained other nurses on patient care and daily tasks, supporting growth, and professional development.
- Managed multiple tasks simultaneously while prioritizing urgent requests from physicians or nurses.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives in order to improve patient outcomes.
Home Health Registered Nurse Case Manager
Spectra Care
Louisville
02.2005 - 09.2005
- Coordinated patient care plans with interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
- Assessed patient health status and monitored ongoing medical needs.
- Educated patients and families on disease management and treatment options.
- Documented patient progress and maintained accurate medical records.
- Managed medication administration and ensured compliance with protocols.
- Facilitated communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers.
- Developed discharge plans to support seamless transitions of care.
- Provided emotional support and counseling to patients and families in need.
- Performed comprehensive physical assessments in accordance with agency policies and procedures.
- Adhered strictly to HIPAA regulations when handling confidential information related to clients' health records.
- Maintained timely documentation of all patient visits in the electronic medical record system.
- Managed caseload efficiently while meeting productivity goals set forth by management.
- Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient status and coordinate services provided by other disciplines.
- Coordinated delivery of durable medical equipment with vendors as needed per patient plan of care.
- Counseled family members on how best to provide ongoing support for their loved one's recovery at home.
- Educated patients on the importance of medication compliance and adherence to physician orders.
- Assessed safety risks in the home environment such as fall hazards or improper use of medical equipment.
- Compiled data for monthly reports related to clinical outcomes, customer satisfaction surveys.
- Actively participated in continuing education programs designed to enhance professional knowledge base.
- Evaluated effectiveness of nursing interventions according to established standards and guidelines.
- Collaborated with physicians, families, and other healthcare professionals to ensure quality of care.
- Developed care plans and coordinated services for home health patients.
- Provided skilled nursing assessments, interventions, and treatments to homebound patients.
- Attended community health fairs and events to promote home health services offered by the agency.
- Completed initial assessments of patients and family to determine and address individual home care needs.
- Charted changes in patient conditions and discussed concerns with supervising healthcare provider.
- Answered patient calls, identified issues, and determined how best to provide assistance within parameters established by facility and supervisor.
- Participated in on-call rotations and delivered after-hours care.
- Collected biological samples for routine laboratory testing to assist diagnostic processes.
- Conducted telehealth visits, providing remote support and monitoring.
- Supported patients with chronic illness management, optimizing quality of life.
- Managed the administration of intravenous (IV) therapies and nutrition.
- Trained new home health nurses, sharing best practices and clinical expertise.
Home Health Nurse/Case Manager (Internal Transfer for Mercy)
Unity Home Healthcare
St. Louis
07.2004 - 02.2005
- Provide individualized Healthcare to a wide variety of patients in their homes
- Determine client healthcare needs
- Administer wound treatment
- Inform Physicians of patient status and carry out their orders
- Release patients from care when necessary
- Perform blood draws and deliver to area labs
- Evaluate patients for Physical/Occupational therapy and complete general assessments
Dialysis Nurse
St. Johns Mercy Medical Center
St. Louis
09.2003 - 07.2004
- Administered Dialysis, was responsible for hooking patients up to machines for prescribed time limits
- Educated patients about dialysis, diets, and care of access sites
- Assisted in determining the type of therapy required for patients through assessments and lab results
- Relayed patient information and their concerns to the doctors
ICU Nurse
St. Louis University Hospital
St. Louis
06.2002 - 08.2003
- Provided direct patient care in high-acuity settings.
- Monitored vital signs and assessed patient conditions continuously.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams for comprehensive treatment plans.
- Administered medications and managed intravenous therapies effectively.
- Educated patients and families about treatment processes and recovery plans.
- Documented patient progress and care interventions accurately in records.
- Trained new nurses on ICU protocols and best practices consistently.
- Ensured compliance with infection control standards and safety procedures.
- Assisted physicians with various invasive procedures within the ICU setting.
- Implemented evidence-based practice guidelines when caring for critically ill patients.
- Initiated resuscitation measures when necessary following cardiac arrest or respiratory failure events.
- Assessed ICU patients each shift to ascertain vitals and key information.
- Responded quickly and efficiently to any changes in patient condition or treatment plan.
- Completed patient assessments, triaged and recorded patient histories, symptoms and observations.
- Facilitated admission and discharge processes for ICU patients.
- Ensured compliance with hospital policies and procedures related to ICU operations.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members in order to provide quality patient care.
- Successfully managed multiple tasks while maintaining focus on providing safe, high-quality patient care.
- Delivered optimum treatments to critical-care patients following prescribed rules, policies, protocol, and procedures.
- Helped monitor, maintain and improve nursing-sensitive indicators, core measures and other identified outcome metrics.
- Actively participated in continuing education opportunities related to critical care nursing practices.
- Participated in development, implementation and evaluation of action plans for continuous performance improvement.
- Functioned as charge nurse and assumed patient care in absence of nurses ending or arriving for shifts.
- Developed and maintained professional relationship with members of health care team, patient, and patient's family.
- Identified potential safety risks in the ICU environment and took appropriate action to mitigate those risks.
- Advocated for patient needs and preferences, acting as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare providers.
- Utilized strong critical thinking skills to make quick and accurate clinical decisions in emergency situations.
- Operated and maintained life support systems and other medical equipment with precision and care.
- Supervised cardiac monitors, mechanical ventilators and alarms and oxygen delivery devices.
Corpsman in U.S. Navy
U.S. Navy and Naval Reserve
St. Louis
01.1991 - 11.2002
- General Military duties were to perform physicals, eye exams and immunizations
- Dealt with many types of patients, and with many different aspects of the medical field
ICU Nurse
Christian Northeast Hospital
St. Louis
12.1999 - 06.2002
- Performed ADLS, range of motion exercises
- Assessed patients and relayed condition to doctors and family
- Assessed patients for pain and applied appropriate approach to pain control whether it was repositioning a patient or relaying a patient’s condition to a physician in order to get the appropriate medicines prescribed
- Helped families cope with their decisions to terminate life support
- Informed families of options for long-term- care facilities
- Assisted families in creating an acceptable at home plan for loved ones
- Inserted IV access (peripheral or central) and maintained IV therapies
- Assisted in placing Swan catheters and conducted readings to adjust therapies
- Performed major and minor dressing changes
Education
Bachelor’s Degree - Nursing
Chamberlain College of Nursing
St. Louis, MOAssociate Degree - Nursing
Lewis & Clark Community College
Godfrey, ILSkills
- Patient monitoring
- Telemetry interpretation
- Medication administration
- Electronic health records
- Vital signs assessment
- Care plan coordination
- Quality assurance practices
- Infection control protocols
- Evidence-based practice
- Team collaboration
- Effective communication
- Critical thinking
- Patient education
- Time management
- Patient care and monitoring
- Clinical judgment
- Critical care nursing
- Advanced life support
- Interpersonal and written communication
- Health promotion
- Discharge planning
- Strong clinical judgment
- Multitasking capacity
- Team building
- Care coordination
Certification
- CPR
- ACLS
- SCRN
Timeline
Telemedicine, Telemetry Nurse, LTACH Nurse
Mercy Hospital St. Louis
08.2012 - Current
Dialysis RN (Acute Care Setting)
Total Renal Care (DaVita)
06.2008 - 11.2012
Telemetry Registered Nurse
St. Joseph Hospital West
02.2008 - 08.2012
Registered Nurse, PCU
Access Nurses
11.2007 - 02.2008
Registered Nurse, PCU
Kennstone Hospital
01.2007 - 10.2007
Registered Nurse, PCU
Lancaster Regional Hospital
10.2005 - 01.2007
Home Health Registered Nurse Case Manager
Spectra Care
02.2005 - 09.2005
Home Health Nurse/Case Manager (Internal Transfer for Mercy)
Unity Home Healthcare
07.2004 - 02.2005
Dialysis Nurse
St. Johns Mercy Medical Center
09.2003 - 07.2004
ICU Nurse
St. Louis University Hospital
06.2002 - 08.2003
ICU Nurse
Christian Northeast Hospital
12.1999 - 06.2002
Corpsman in U.S. Navy
U.S. Navy and Naval Reserve
01.1991 - 11.2002
Bachelor’s Degree - Nursing
Chamberlain College of Nursing
Associate Degree - Nursing
Lewis & Clark Community College