Stephanie McKenna

• SERVICE DELIVERY
• Nursing lead in the development of an inpatient stroke service.
• Developed, implemented, and evaluated evidence-based medical and nursing practice protocols for the Emergency Department, inpatient rehabilitation, and Stroke outpatient setting.
• Participated in committees that developed strategies for improving patient satisfaction ratings.
• Identified opportunities for cost savings through improved processes or better utilization of resources.
• Assisted in the development of educational materials for staff members regarding new treatments and procedures.
• Consulted with medical staff about changes to current practices based on latest research findings.
• Provide clinical expertise and support to nurses in the delivery of quality care while adhering to ethical standards.
• Accept and triage referrals for stroke rehabilitation within the hospital and clinic setting.
• Analyzed data from patient records and surveys to identify areas for improvement in processes.
• Coordinated interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss complex cases.
• Educated nurses on best practices for providing care to patients with acute stroke.
• Used communication and leadership expertise to liaise between management, clinical staff and community.
• Evaluated patient care needs, prioritized treatment and maintained patient flow.
• Mentored and coached nursing staff, listening to concerns and providing counsel.
• Provided strong leadership and guidance to nurses.
• Provided patients and loved ones with information about conditions, treatments, possible outcomes and at-home care.
• ADVANCED CLINICAL SKILLS
• Implement pharmacological and non pharmacological management plans for acute stroke
• Interpreted laboratory results, diagnostic tests, and imaging studies as necessary.
• Conferred with physicians during rounds and coordinated necessary diagnostic assessments to accomplish patient care goals.
• Completed thorough and accurate documentation of care in full compliance with standards.
• Identified physical, emotional and social needs of patients during daily planning and addressed critical issues immediately.
• Pursued opportunities and leveraged expertise to optimize patient care, improve outcomes and optimize performance of nursing team members.
• Collaborated with department managers to correct problems and improve services.
• LEADERSHIP
• Developed and arranged continuing education opportunities for staff to increase knowledge and skills.
• Facilitated communication by providing information and counseling to families.
• Educated patients about treatment care plans.
• Advocated for patients to ensure their needs and preferences were addressed.
• Established and maintained positive relationships with residents, physicians, hospital staff, patients and families.
• Initiated referrals to other healthcare specialists as necessary.

RESEARCH/ QUALITY IMPROVEMENT

• Principal Investigator in FeSS protocol study.
• Evaluated quality and effectiveness of nursing practice or organizational systems.
• Collaborated with other health care professionals and service providers to drive optimal patient care.
• Coordinated services between multiple departments to keep procedures and testing on track.
• Offered clinical recommendations to physicians, other healthcare providers or healthcare organizations.
• Planned, evaluated or modified treatment programs by observing and interviewing patients or analyzing patient records.
• Supervised registered nurses and other healthcare personnel in delivering quality patient care services.
• Maintained detailed records of patient visits, diagnoses, treatments, and test results in electronic health record systems.
• Conducted follow-up visits to monitor treatment progress and ensure effectiveness of interventions.
• Evaluated research data related to new developments in healthcare delivery models.
• Participated in quality improvement initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for patients.
• Assessed patient health conditions and developed individualized care plans.
• Coordinated with members of multidisciplinary teams to provide integrated services for complex cases.