Donna Jay
Tapitallee
Summary
Accomplished Clinical Nurse Consultant with a proven track record at Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, enhancing patient outcomes through evidence-based practices and interdisciplinary collaboration. Skilled in stroke program management and developing training programs, I excel in clinical quality improvement and networking, achieving significant advancements in healthcare delivery and staff development.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Rural Stroke Coordinator/Clinical Nurse Consultant
Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
03.2016 - Current
- Evaluated program effectiveness using key performance indicators, identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary changes.
- Established strong relationships with local EMS providers to improve pre-hospital stroke care and expedite treatment times.
- Developed comprehensive education programs for staff, ensuring up-to-date knowledge in stroke management techniques.
- Enhanced interdisciplinary communication for better patient management and streamlined care processes.
- Streamlined discharge planning processes to ensure a smooth transition from acute care settings to post-acute care or rehabilitation facilities.
- Optimized stroke patient care by coordinating timely diagnostic tests and treatments.
- Conducted regular chart audits to ensure compliance with national stroke care standards and guidelines.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop individualized patient care plans, promoting optimal recovery and rehabilitation.
- Served as a liaison between patients, families, clinicians, administrators, insurance providers, and other stakeholders during complex case management situations.
- Managed data collection processes, providing accurate information to support decision-making and facilitate ongoing performance improvement efforts.
- Maintained current knowledge of best practices in the field by attending conferences, reviewing literature, and networking with fellow professionals.
- Reduced door-to-needle times through efficient coordination of acute stroke response protocols.
- Coordinated continuing education opportunities for staff members, fostering an environment of continuous learning and professional growth.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based stroke care protocols and guidelines.
- Served as a mentor for new Stroke Coordinators, sharing insights gained from years of experience and fostering a collaborative approach to program development and improvement.
- Championed the use of telemedicine technology when appropriate to enhance access to specialized neurological expertise in remote or rural areas.
- Led hospital-wide initiatives aimed at improving overall stroke care quality and enhancing the facility''s reputation as a center of excellence in stroke treatment.
- Mentored new clinical staff members for proper onboarding and orientation processes.
- Upheld quality assurance procedures to maintain patient safety and satisfaction.
- Implemented new policies and educated staff on changes.
- Coordinated, monitored, assigned, and documented patient and clinical care activities.
- Built strong relationships with patients and families for optimized care satisfaction.
- Devised and implemented clinical protocols to ensure high-quality patient care.
- Assessed clinical policies and procedures for compliance with changing regulations.
- Established and maintained effective communication with staff, physicians and community organizations to promote high quality patient care.
- Discussed medical histories with patients in effort to provide most effective medical advice.
- Championed evidence-based practice within the organization by leading the implementation of clinical practice guidelines designed to improve patient care outcomes.
- Developed educational materials and conducted in-service trainings to enhance clinical staff knowledge on various health topics.
- Conducted audits of medical records to ensure compliance with regulatory standards while maintaining patient confidentiality.
- Provided expert consultation for complex cases, ensuring comprehensive assessments and appropriate interventions were delivered.
- Participated in interdisciplinary rounds, contributing valuable insights from a nursing perspective to inform comprehensive treatment plans for patients with complex needs.
- Implemented quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall standard of patient care throughout the facility.
- Mentored newly hired nurses, ensuring proper orientation to facility procedures and fostering professional growth through ongoing support.
- Documented all aspects of care following facility and Medicare standards, creating accurate patient records of all interactions and interventions to sustain continuity of care.
- Performed head-to-toe physical assessments, prioritizing treatment and delegating assignments to maintain patient flows.
- Educated patients and families on treatment, expected outcomes and discharge instructions, serving as advisory resource to patients and families to facilitate recovery.
- Initiated care plan and actualized appropriate interventions and treatment.
- Conducted rounds with physicians, advising physicians on patients' conditions and assisting in coordinating diagnostic testing and follow up appointments to achieve optimal patient outcomes.
- Served as a clinical resource to staff, patients and families.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives to improve patient care.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Documented patient progress and care interventions in medical records.
- Developed, implemented and monitored clinical protocols and standards of care.
- Reviewed patient health status and developed individualized care plans.
- Explained side effects from medications and provided in-depth education to patients on diabetes, asthma, cancer, and other diseases.
- Created educational materials for staff and patients.
- Conducted research and developed evidence-based clinical guidelines.
Rehabilitation Registered Nurse
Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
08.2014 - 04.2021
- Evaluated program effectiveness using key performance indicators, identifying areas for improvement and implementing necessary changes.
- Established strong relationships with local EMS providers to improve pre-hospital stroke care and expedite treatment times.
- Developed comprehensive education programs for staff, ensuring up-to-date knowledge in stroke management techniques.
- Enhanced interdisciplinary communication for better patient management and streamlined care processes.
- Streamlined discharge planning processes to ensure a smooth transition from acute care settings to post-acute care or rehabilitation facilities.
- Optimized stroke patient care by coordinating timely diagnostic tests and treatments.
- Conducted regular chart audits to ensure compliance with national stroke care standards and guidelines.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop individualized patient care plans, promoting optimal recovery and rehabilitation.
- Served as a liaison between patients, families, clinicians, administrators, insurance providers, and other stakeholders during complex case management situations.
- Managed data collection processes, providing accurate information to support decision-making and facilitate ongoing performance improvement efforts.
- Maintained current knowledge of best practices in the field by attending conferences, reviewing literature, and networking with fellow professionals.
- Reduced door-to-needle times through efficient coordination of acute stroke response protocols.
- Coordinated continuing education opportunities for staff members, fostering an environment of continuous learning and professional growth.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based stroke care protocols and guidelines.
- Served as a mentor for new Stroke Coordinators, sharing insights gained from years of experience and fostering a collaborative approach to program development and improvement.
- Championed the use of telemedicine technology when appropriate to enhance access to specialized neurological expertise in remote or rural areas.
- Led hospital-wide initiatives aimed at improving overall stroke care quality and enhancing the facility''s reputation as a center of excellence in stroke treatment.
- Mentored new clinical staff members for proper onboarding and orientation processes.
- Upheld quality assurance procedures to maintain patient safety and satisfaction.
- Implemented new policies and educated staff on changes.
- Coordinated, monitored, assigned, and documented patient and clinical care activities.
- Built strong relationships with patients and families for optimized care satisfaction.
- Devised and implemented clinical protocols to ensure high-quality patient care.
- Assessed clinical policies and procedures for compliance with changing regulations.
- Established and maintained effective communication with staff, physicians and community organizations to promote high quality patient care.
- Discussed medical histories with patients in effort to provide most effective medical advice.
- Championed evidence-based practice within the organization by leading the implementation of clinical practice guidelines designed to improve patient care outcomes.
- Developed educational materials and conducted in-service trainings to enhance clinical staff knowledge on various health topics.
- Conducted audits of medical records to ensure compliance with regulatory standards while maintaining patient confidentiality.
- Provided expert consultation for complex cases, ensuring comprehensive assessments and appropriate interventions were delivered.
- Participated in interdisciplinary rounds, contributing valuable insights from a nursing perspective to inform comprehensive treatment plans for patients with complex needs.
- Implemented quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall standard of patient care throughout the facility.
- Mentored newly hired nurses, ensuring proper orientation to facility procedures and fostering professional growth through ongoing support.
- Documented all aspects of care following facility and Medicare standards, creating accurate patient records of all interactions and interventions to sustain continuity of care.
- Performed head-to-toe physical assessments, prioritizing treatment and delegating assignments to maintain patient flows.
- Educated patients and families on treatment, expected outcomes and discharge instructions, serving as advisory resource to patients and families to facilitate recovery.
- Initiated care plan and actualized appropriate interventions and treatment.
- Conducted rounds with physicians, advising physicians on patients' conditions and assisting in coordinating diagnostic testing and follow up appointments to achieve optimal patient outcomes.
- Served as a clinical resource to staff, patients and families.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives to improve patient care.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Documented patient progress and care interventions in medical records.
- Developed, implemented and monitored clinical protocols and standards of care.
- Reviewed patient health status and developed individualized care plans.
- Explained side effects from medications and provided in-depth education to patients on diabetes, asthma, cancer, and other diseases.
- Created educational materials for staff and patients.
- Conducted research and developed evidence-based clinical guidelines.
Clinical Nurse Educator
Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
02.2016 - 03.2016
- Evaluated clinical staff performance, identifying areas of improvement and providing constructive feedback to drive continuous growth.
- Utilized adult learning principles to adapt teaching methods according to individual learner needs, maximizing comprehension and retention of material presented.
- Led the development of annual training plans based on identified gaps in knowledge or skills among clinical staff members.
- Assisted in the design of simulation exercises, enhancing hands-on learning experiences for clinical staff members.
- Supported departmental goals by aligning educational programs with organizational objectives.
- Coordinated continuing education events, connecting nurses with relevant resources to advance their expertise within their respective fields.
- Kept current with emerging trends in healthcare education, incorporating new strategies into existing curricula for continuous program improvement.
- Improved nursing competency through the creation and delivery of targeted training sessions and workshops.
- Developed comprehensive competency assessments, effectively measuring nursing staff knowledge and skill levels.
- Enhanced patient outcomes by developing and implementing evidence-based educational programs for clinical staff.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to ensure consistent patient care and education across various departments.
- Contributed to hospital accreditation efforts by ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices in nursing education.
- Promoted patient safety by leading quality improvement initiatives within the nursing department.
- Served as a mentor for junior nursing staff, fostering a positive learning environment and promoting professional growth.
- Contributed to the achievement of key performance indicators by providing data-driven recommendations for nursing education initiatives.
- Fostered culture of continuous learning and improvement among nursing staff, contributing to enhanced team performance.
- Collaborated with healthcare teams to identify training needs and tailor educational content accordingly.
- Enhanced patient care outcomes by developing and implementing targeted nursing education programs.
- Developed educational materials and resources to support nursing staff in their daily duties.
- Championed adoption of digital tools in nursing education, enhancing learning experiences and outcomes.
- Boosted nurse competency with hands-on training sessions in latest healthcare technologies and practices.
- Optimized clinical skills training modules to address gaps in nursing practice, elevating patient care standards.
- Reduced medication errors and improved patient safety through targeted educational programs.
- Facilitated interdisciplinary training sessions, promoting cohesive approach to patient care.
- Assessed student knowledge levels and abilities with detailed assessments.
- Educated nursing students on successful methods for performing Rehabilitation nursing techniques.
- Directly cared for patients at least 20 hours each month to maintain currency on clinical techniques.
Nurse Unit Manager
Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
04.2015 - 01.2016
- Oversaw recruitment efforts within the nursing unit, selecting highly skilled candidates who would contribute positively to the team dynamic.
- Facilitated smooth transitions between shifts, ensuring seamless continuity of care for all patients on the unit.
- Actively sought out opportunities for continuing education within the field of nursing management, staying up-to-date on current trends and best practices.
- Collaborated with administrators to evaluate nursing policies and procedures for potential improvements regularly.
- Established a strong rapport with patients and their families, addressing concerns and providing valuable support throughout the treatment process.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations for nursing staff members, providing constructive feedback and identifying opportunities for improvement.
- Managed budgetary concerns within the nursing unit, carefully allocating resources and controlling costs.
- Streamlined nurse scheduling, ensuring adequate coverage for all shifts while minimizing overtime costs.
- Implemented infection control measures, reducing hospital-acquired infections among patients under the unit''s care.
- Promoted interdisciplinary communication through regular meetings with physicians, therapists, and other healthcare professionals.
- Contributed to hospital-wide accreditation efforts, maintaining compliance with industry standards for nursing practice.
- Reduced medication errors with thorough medication administration education and adherence to best practices.
- Increased patient safety by conducting regular risk assessments and implementing necessary interventions.
- Supervised, directed, and motivated high-quality performance from nursing staff.
- Led staff meetings to keep team informed of departmental changes and provide opportunities for nurses to share ideas and concerns.
- Managed staff scheduling and time off to adequately staff nursing floors and allow nurses earned time off.
- Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
- Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
- Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
- Sustained quality standards by performing routine medication audits and upholding internal and industry best practices.
- Leveraged feedback and process improvement opportunities to create safer and healthier environment and increase patient satisfaction.
- Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
- Investigated and resolved issues affecting hospital operations and patient care.
- Facilitated therapeutic communication, conflict resolution and crisis intervention by redirecting negative behaviors and helping patients regain or improve coping abilities.
- Collaborated with leadership to devise initiatives for improving nursing satisfaction, retention and morale.
Clinical Nurse Consultant
Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
08.2014 - 10.2014
- Championed evidence-based practice within the organization by leading the implementation of clinical practice guidelines designed to improve patient care outcomes.
- Established performance metrics for evaluating nursing staff effectiveness, facilitating targeted professional development opportunities as needed.
- Participated in interdisciplinary rounds, contributing valuable insights from a nursing perspective to inform comprehensive treatment plans for patients with complex needs.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to create individualized care plans that addressed the unique needs of each patient.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based nursing practices and providing guidance to clinical staff.
- Conducted audits of medical records to ensure compliance with regulatory standards while maintaining patient confidentiality.
- Streamlined workflow processes by identifying inefficiencies and implementing strategic solutions that improved overall clinic operations.
- Enhanced patient care by regularly updating and revising clinical policies, procedures, and protocols based on current research.
- Fostered a culture of continuous learning within the clinical team by sharing best practices and encouraging open communication on opportunities for improvement.
- Mentored newly hired nurses, ensuring proper orientation to facility procedures and fostering professional growth through ongoing support.
- Evaluated new technology advancements in patient care, making recommendations for adoption within the organization based on potential benefits.
- Provided expert consultation for complex cases, ensuring comprehensive assessments and appropriate interventions were delivered.
- Developed educational materials and conducted in-service trainings to enhance clinical staff knowledge on various health topics.
- Implemented quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall standard of patient care throughout the facility.
- Evaluated nursing staff's performance and developed education programs and professional development opportunities to improve individual and team competencies, clinical knowledge and delivery of care.
- Interacted effectively with department managers to promptly correct problems and improve services.
- Collaborated with physicians and interdisciplinary teams to devise and manage individualized plans of care.
- Fostered improvement in staff development, personnel training, and standards of patient care.
- Sought opportunities to improve patient care, outcomes and nursing staff performance.
- Documented all aspects of care following facility and Medicare standards, creating accurate patient records of all interactions and interventions to sustain continuity of care.
- Advocated for patients' physical, psychosocial, developmental, spiritual and emotional needs during planning.
- Performed head-to-toe physical assessments, prioritizing treatment and delegating assignments to maintain patient flows.
- Motivated nursing staff to pursue advanced training and collaborated with unit leaders to identify skill needs.
- Educated patients and families on treatment, expected outcomes and discharge instructions, serving as advisory resource to patients and families to facilitate recovery.
- Responded to behavioral and medical crises codes.
Registered Nurse
South West Area Health Service
03.2011 - 04.2012
- Utilized critical thinking skills to prioritize nursing interventions based on patients'' acuity levels and individual needs.
- Conducted thorough patient assessments to identify changes in condition, promptly notifying physicians and initiating appropriate interventions when necessary.
- Administered medications safely according to established guidelines while closely monitoring for side effects or adverse reactions requiring intervention.
- Enhanced patient satisfaction by providing compassionate, holistic nursing care that addressed physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
- Prevented the spread of infections by consistently adhering to strict infection control protocols and educating patients on proper hygiene practices.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans for complex patients with multiple comorbidities.
- Skillfully managed challenging patient situations using de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention strategies, and therapeutic communication skills.
- Improved patient outcomes by implementing evidence-based nursing interventions and individualized care plans.
- Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in nursing care and emerging trends in healthcare delivery.
Education
Masters of Advanced Nursing Practice - Nursing
University of Newcastle
Newcastle, NSW08.2012
Graduate Certificate of Health Science - Stroke Management Specialsation
University of Newcastle
Newcastle, NSW01.2010
Bachelor of Nursing - Nursing
University of Canberra
Canberra, ACT12.2006
No Degree - Neurovascular Registered Nurse Board Certified
Association of Neurovascular Clinicians
USA01.2023
No Degree - Advanced Stroke Coordinator Board Certified
Association of Neurovascular Clinicians
USA11.2022
Skills
- Clinical expertise
- Performance Metrics Monitoring
- Networking and relationship building
- Emergency Response Coordination
- Protocol development
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Research and evaluation
- Stroke Program Management
Affiliations
- Registration - NMW0001128341 expires 31/05/2025
- Member of the NSW Rural Stroke Network since 2016
- Member of the NSW Stroke Network since 2014
- Living Stroke Guidelines content expert since 2019
- Chair of the NSW Stroke Network Professional development working party
- Working with Childrens Check #WWC0092345E
Timeline
Rural Stroke Coordinator/Clinical Nurse Consultant
Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
03.2016 - Current
Clinical Nurse Educator
Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
02.2016 - 03.2016
Nurse Unit Manager
Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
04.2015 - 01.2016
Rehabilitation Registered Nurse
Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
08.2014 - 04.2021
Clinical Nurse Consultant
Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District
08.2014 - 10.2014
Registered Nurse
South West Area Health Service
03.2011 - 04.2012
Masters of Advanced Nursing Practice - Nursing
University of Newcastle
Graduate Certificate of Health Science - Stroke Management Specialsation
University of Newcastle
Bachelor of Nursing - Nursing
University of Canberra
No Degree - Neurovascular Registered Nurse Board Certified
Association of Neurovascular Clinicians
No Degree - Advanced Stroke Coordinator Board Certified
Association of Neurovascular Clinicians
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