Linda Thomas

Work History

Credentialled Diabetes Educator

Central Coast Local Health District

01.2021 - Current

Assessment and safe high-quality patient-centred Education with newly diagnosed T1/T2 adults as inpatients and outpatients. Ensuring delivery of optimal standards in various fields, like insulin starts, optimising diabetes health to meet the needs for the patient/family, establishing and supporting goals, individualised management, underpinned with best-practice in clinical care.
Confidently and independently plan and produce Evidence-Based individualised Care Plans that are endorsed by various Endocrinologist within CCLHD, to support safe management for both T1&T2 patients within care facilities within CCLHD community.
Insulin Stabilising Program (ISP): Working autonomously 2 days per week, to support patients transition from hospital to community setting, new to insulin or requiring insulin support and management, often with complex health complications, navigating and problem-solving and adjusting their insulin under a collaborative weekly meeting with the endocrinologist assessing the progress of their diabetes management. Demonstrating leadership, advanced skills in creative problem solving; with supportive friendly open transparent, non-judgmental communication between patient/family, optimising diabetes ongoing management, optimising glucose targets and pathology, chronic health complexities, like renal, cardiac and respiratory, cancer patients having steroid treatments and peg-feeds, having the advanced skills to recognise the deteriorating patient and encourage readmission, plus having insight to psychosocial factors, alcohol and substance abuse and possible learning disabilities. As a Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE), I am most aware of my "Scope of Practice" and when to escalate to the Endocrinologist or MDT.
This clinician has an awareness of sever and Chronic Management and an in-depth knowledge of pathology interpretation related to chronic diseases that affect diabetes management eg anaemia and renal function, supporting knowledge and judgement in treatment intervention and best-outcomes and delivery of care for patients.
As a Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE), I have professional recognition and abilities to direct NDSS T1 Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM) application (Dexcom6/Libre2) demonstrating professional knowledge and guidance and promote device preferences to suit the individual; then navigating the NDSS application and demonstrating and supporting patient on their 1st personal application of the device, providing orientation of the CGM, alarm settings, trouble shooting and on-going maintenance; plus connecting some patients with their consent to the CCLHD Diabetes Hub for continuous ongoing clinical assessment and management within the community. This CDE has current abilities in emerging technology to down load the CGM data to collaborate management and with endocrine consent to change the diagnosis of a patient with the NDSS, from T2 usually to T1 following pathology conformation.
Confidently work autonomously in 1:1 consult with patients and their family's within the community referral received by GP's and Endocrine Specialists. Customising interventions to accommodate the age, literacy level, cultural or ethical background, physical and cognitive abilities to patient with diabetes.
Also conducting "Getting Started Group" for newly diagnosed T2 nd Pre-diabetes patients. (What is T2 Diabetes, Risk Factors, What is a carbohydrate and how it is utilised in the body, HbA1C , Optimal Blood Glucose monitoring and ranges, diabetes medications. Healthy Lifestyle, including promotion of daily physical exercise, health diet choices, weight monitoring, diabetes medications and complication screening and awareness.
Effective and advanced evidence-based knowledge with insulin profiles, timings, storage and ketone education with sick-day recommendations and carbohydrate knowledge to support effective Hyperglycaemic management and Hypoglycemic management.
Hypoglycemic management to include hypo-awareness, possible causes, and effectively timely hypo-management including awareness of driving legalities within Australia. Supporting treatment intervention and supporting best-outcomes for patients with Diabetes.
Demonstrates effective professional timely clear written and verbalised communication, utilising electronic progress notes and collaborates with other professionals, specialists, VMO's and Endocrine team, regarding patients and advocating patients choices and direction with diabetes management; promoting positive clinical outcomes for patients with diabetes, instigating timely referrals within CCLHD MDT to support ongoing management and timely safe discharges.
Critique/analyse, evaluate patients progress data on medications administration and blood glucose trends within hospital setting and identify near misses alert Diabetes Nurse Unit manager and relevant teams and complete timely IMMS, working to enhance clinical best-practice and unmet needs to optimal patient outcomes and service delivery. Including reviewing discharge summaries for patients on Insulin stabilising program and trouble shoot accordingly.
Attends Hospital-led Family Conferences as a Diabetes Educator, supporting optimal safe discharge creative problem solving to support patients/families outcomes with safety in mind.
Has had some exposure to closed-pump insulin devices, attended a 6 hour Medtronic work-shop and has confidently downloaded some pumps for data analysis to support ongoing management. I have instigated Omnipod representatives to train and develop my ongoing journey with current emerging diabetes technologies.
Responsible for accurate weekly audits and statistics on Outpatients and current Insulin Stabilising Program (ISP) data collaboration plus discharges from ISP, successful outcomes etc, to support Diabetes Department goals and performance direction.
This CDE has been fortunate to attend two NAIDOC Community Days for screening and health support for indigenous populations within CCLHD. Implementing opportunistic diabetes advances and education in prevention and improvement within health and recently undated my CCLHD mandatory education within Aboriginal Culture that underpins ethical decision making. Respecting their culture and referring to Aboriginal health support worker, to optimise care and outcomes in health.
Acts as a resource person for Diabetes Management to other health professionals through regular mandatory education presentations for nursing clinicians and Endocrine medical staff orientation. Promoting the role of the diabetes educator, diabetes services and management of T1 and T2 current best-practices, incorporating risk management and improving knowledge/competencies to support optimal outcomes within the CCLHD.
Mentoring Post-Graduate Students, in Diabetes Education and Management acting as a resource and mentor to others in relation to optimal clinical practice and professional practice as per: Australian Diabetes Education Association (ADEA) and CCLHD.
This CDE has an in-depth knowledge of Diabetes Policies and Procedures to disseminate to MDT and optimise best-evidence clinical practice and outcomes for patients and clinicians within CCLHD, through mandatory training and incidental opportunities.
Presents Educational Presentations on "Effective Diabetes Management" on T1 and T2 with insulin therapy, administration hypo-treatment etc within Disability Group Home Facilities and Retired Age Care Facilities representing the Diabetes Services in CCLHD and providing current safe practices to the local community.
Responsible for ordering and rotating stocks in blood glucose meters, CGM's and readers, education leaflets, needles and other resources to support current diabetes education. engaging in positive communication relations and interactions with diabetes representatives to optimise care delivery within CCLHD.
Remaining current within Diabetes research and independent studies via e-learning, journals, attending conferences and medication seminars, training days and webinars, ensuring own current contributing professional development.

Casual Pool Registered Nurse

Central Coast Local Health District

Toukley, NSW

09.2018 - 12.2021

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 worked on COVID fast track Medical Imaging and COVID wards and COVID screening.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in nursing care and emerging trends in healthcare delivery.
Promoted a culture of safety within the healthcare facility by participating in quality improvement initiatives, identifying potential hazards, and advocating for best practices in nursing care delivery.
Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.

Practice Nurse in Community

Toukley Medical Family Practice

06.2016 - 09.2018

Maintained a clean and safe environment, adhering to infection control protocols and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Utilized electronic health records systems effectively for accurate data entry, retrieval, and communication among healthcare team members.
Participated in professional development activities to stay current on best practices in nursing care delivery methods.
Educated patients about prescribed medications'' proper use and potential side effects for increased adherence rates and safety measures taken into account.
Assessed and collaborated GP management Care plans for Diabetes and Chronic conditions.
Immunisations
Conducted immunization clinics, contributing to improved community health outcomes through disease prevention efforts.
Conducted regular audits of medical supplies and equipment, ensuring adequate stock levels for uninterrupted patient care delivery.
Increased patient engagement in their own healthcare by offering resources, information, and guidance on self-care techniques.
Kept optimal supply levels in treatment rooms, triage, and other areas to meet typical patient loads.
Maintained constant communication with physician and other members of care team.
Promoted continuity of care with thorough documentation of medical histories, vital signs, observations, interventions, and results.
Provided compassionate support to patients during medical procedures, alleviating anxiety and discomfort.
Delivered high-quality patient care with strong attention to detail in administering medications, treatments, and wound care.
Collaborated with healthcare professionals to develop individualized care plans for optimal patient outcomes.

Registered Nurse in Emergency Department

Calvary Mater

Newcastle, NSW

06.2012 - 08.2016

Contributed to a positive work environment by fostering strong relationships with colleagues, collaborating on shared goals, and promoting teamwork within the Emergency Department.
Provided support to patients experiencing emotional distress or mental health crises, utilizing therapeutic communication techniques to create a sense of trust and safety.
Assisted physicians in performing diagnostic procedures by providing necessary equipment, preparing patients for exams, and ensuring accuracy of test results.
Coordinated patient transfers to appropriate hospital departments or outside facilities while maintaining continuity of care during transition periods.
Assisted in life-saving procedures such as CPR, intubation, and defibrillation during critical situations in the Emergency Department.
Improved patient outcomes by closely monitoring vital signs, recognizing changes in patient condition, and promptly notifying physicians when necessary.
Collaborated with interdisciplinary team members to develop and implement individualized care plans for patients in the Emergency Department.
Maintained accurate documentation of patient information using electronic medical records systems, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with HIPAA regulations.
Provided compassionate care to patients and their families, addressing concerns and answering questions regarding treatment options.
Utilized evidence-based practice methods to guide clinical decision-making processes while caring for patients in the Emergency Department.
Administered medications safely and accurately, adhering to hospital policies and procedures for medication administration.
Educated patients on disease prevention techniques and self-care strategies to promote long-term wellness after discharge from the Emergency Department.
Enhanced patient care by conducting thorough assessments via triage and developing appropriate nursing interventions.
Served as a preceptor for new Registered Nurses entering the Emergency Department, providing guidance and support during orientation process.
Reduced emergency room wait times by efficiently triaging patients and prioritizing care based on severity of conditions.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to remain current on best practices in emergency nursing care.
Deescalated potentially volatile situations involving agitated or aggressive patients through effective communication and crisis intervention techniques.
Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
Teamed on trauma and emergency interventions involving serious head injuries, gunshot wounds, and thoracic trauma.
Communicated openly and collaboratively with all healthcare staff to organize successful patient care.
Answered codes quickly and orchestrated efficient, skilled medical care.
Educated patients and answered questions about health condition, prognosis, and treatment.
Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically-ill patients.
Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
Promoted patient and family comfort during challenging recoveries to enhance healing and eliminate non-compliance problems.
Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
Facilitated therapeutic communication, conflict resolution and crisis intervention by redirecting negative behaviours and helping patients regain or improve coping abilities.
Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
Investigated and resolved issues affecting hospital operations and patient care.
Performed frequent checks on life support equipment and made necessary adjustments to preserve optimal patient conditions.

Accident and Emergency Registered Nurse

Worcester National Health Trust

02.2008 - 05.2012

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 co-morbidities.
Skillfully managed challenging patient situations using de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention strategies, and therapeutic communication skills.
Promoted a culture of safety within the healthcare facility by participating in quality improvement initiatives, identifying potential hazards, and advocating for best practices in nursing care delivery.
Provided support for patients'' families during difficult medical decisions or end-of-life care, serving as a liaison between the healthcare team and loved ones.
Advised patients and caregivers of proper wound management, discharge plan objectives, safe medication use, and disease management.
Demonstrated expertise in wound management techniques resulting in accelerated healing times for patients with complex wounds or pressure injuries.
Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans for complex cases.
Communicated with healthcare team members to plan, implement and enhance treatment strategies.
Provided skilled, timely and level-headed emergency response to critically-ill patients.
Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
Offered exceptional care and support to individuals recovering from acute incidents and dealing with chronic conditions.
Promoted patient and family comfort during challenging recoveries to enhance healing and eliminate non-compliance problems.
Quickly responded to situations impacting safety and security to unit, actualizing crisis prevention interventions to control and de-escalate situations.
Delivered high level of quality care to diverse populations while overseeing patient admission and triaging based on acuity and appropriate department admission.
Performed triage on incoming patients and determined severity of injuries and illnesses.
Performed frequent checks on life support equipment and made necessary adjustments to preserve optimal patient conditions.
Facilitated therapeutic communication, conflict resolution and crisis intervention by redirecting negative behaviours and helping patients regain or improve coping abilities.
Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
Streamlined medication administration processes for increased safety and accuracy during busy shifts.
Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in nursing care and emerging trends in healthcare delivery.

Registered Nurse

Worcester National Health Trust

02.2007 - 02.2008

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.
Advised patients and caregivers of proper wound management, discharge plan objectives, safe medication use, and disease management.
Facilitated patient transitions between different levels of care, ensuring continuity of services and minimizing disruptions in treatment plans.
Educated family members and caregivers on patient care instructions.
Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures.
Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
Monitored patient reactions after administering medications and IV therapies.
Promoted patient and family comfort during challenging recoveries to enhance healing and eliminate non-compliance problems.
Equipped patients with tools and knowledge needed for speedy and sustained recovery.
Recorded details regarding therapies to keep patient charts updated.
Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviours and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.
Performed frequent checks on life support equipment and made necessary adjustments to preserve optimal patient conditions.

Summary

Overview

Work History

Credentialled Diabetes Educator

Casual Pool Registered Nurse

Practice Nurse in Community

Registered Nurse in Emergency Department

Accident and Emergency Registered Nurse

Registered Nurse

Education

Post Graduate Degree - Graduate Certificate in Person-Centred Diabetes

Bachelor of Science - With Honours in Adult Nursing (Upper Second Class)

Skills

Accomplishments

Certification

Languages

Timeline

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