Doreen Arends
Aurora
Summary
Dynamic nursing professional with extensive experience as an MDS Coordinator at Highline Rehab Care Center, excelling in clinical documentation accuracy and staff training. Proven track record in enhancing patient care quality through effective interdisciplinary collaboration and adherence to HIPAA compliance, driving improved outcomes and operational efficiency.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
MDS Coordinator
Julia Temple Healthcare Center
10.2024 - Current
- Assisted in completing Minimum Data Set assessments for resident care plans.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
- Supported data entry and management within electronic health record systems.
- Conducted research on best practices for MDS documentation and reporting.
- Participated in staff training sessions on MDS processes and procedures.
- Helped prepare reports to monitor quality metrics and improve care outcomes.
- Engaged with residents and families to gather information for assessments.
- Adapted quickly to new software tools and systems for effective workflow management.
- Set schedules for staff to start and complete MDS assessments and care plan meetings.
- Ensured timely completion of all MDS assessments, maintaining full compliance with federal and state regulations.
ADON
Life Care Center of Aurora
10.2023 - 07.2024
Infection Control Nurse
Life Care Centers of Aurora
10.2023 - 07.2024
- Developed infection prevention protocols, enhancing patient safety and compliance with healthcare regulations.
- Conducted thorough infection surveillance to identify trends and implement effective control measures.
- Educated clinical staff on best practices for infection control, ensuring adherence to established guidelines.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to assess and improve hospital-wide infection prevention strategies.
- Analyzed data from infection reports to drive continuous quality improvement initiatives and outcomes.
- Led training sessions for nursing staff on emerging infectious diseases and appropriate response procedures.
- Oversaw implementation of new sterilization techniques, reducing cross-contamination risks in patient care areas.
- Managed audits of infection control practices, providing actionable feedback to enhance overall compliance rates.
- Implemented isolation precautions for high-risk patients, minimizing exposure risks to others within the healthcare environment.
- Conducted regular audits of clinical practices related to infection control measures, identifying areas for improvement and providing targeted recommendations.
- Optimized environmental cleaning procedures, resulting in decreased transmission of pathogens within the facility.
- Set clear policies to improve success of infection control measures in departments.
- Identified and mitigated unnecessary infection risks through regular reviews and procedural assessments.
- Evaluated hospital-onset and healthcare-acquired infections by conducting root cause analysis.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of existing infection control policies and procedures, making necessary revisions to adapt to changing needs within the healthcare environment.
- Coordinated successfully and with full compliance to prevent infections according to facility and Joint Commission standards.
- Enhanced patient outcomes by collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to address infection prevention concerns.
- Investigated outbreaks and revamped control measures to prevent future incidents.
- Collaborated with clinical leaders to develop policies and procedures related to infectious disease management, improving overall patient care standards.
- Organized and led regular training sessions for staff members on infection prevention topics, ensuring continuous professional development opportunities.
- Educated patients and families about infectious disease prevention strategies, fostering increased understanding and engagement in self-care activities.
- Updated departmental documentation systems, enabling more efficient tracking and reporting of key performance indicators related to infection control programs.
- Identified risks proactively, preparing teams for likely infections based on seasonal changes or current epidemiological trends.
- Gathered and submitted data to regulatory agencies for mandatory report infections such as [Type].
Interim Director of Nursing
Highline Post Acute
12.2021 - 10.2023
- Directed nursing operations to enhance patient care quality and safety standards.
- Developed and implemented strategic initiatives to optimize nursing workflow efficiency.
- Mentored nursing staff, fostering professional development and enhancing team collaboration.
- Established and enforced policies ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations and best practices.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to improve patient outcomes through integrated care strategies.
- Led quality assurance programs, identifying areas for improvement in nursing services delivery.
- Managed budgets and resources effectively, aligning nursing goals with organizational objectives.
- Analyzed data trends to drive decision-making processes for staffing and patient care improvements.
- Participated in management team meetings to discuss resident status, census changes, and resident complaints or concerns.
- Oversaw and approved recruitment, hiring and orientation of new nursing staff.
- Ensured regulatory compliance by staying current on industry standards and updating policies accordingly.
- Built and maintained positive working relationships with physicians and staff to support seamless healthcare operations.
- Performed rounds to observe care and interview staff, residents, and families.
- Streamlined nursing operations by optimizing staffing schedules, resource allocation, and workflow processes.
- Developed positive employee relations, incentives, and recognition programs to promote teamwork and mutual respect.
- Monitored and evaluated nursing staff performance, providing feedback and guidance to support standards of care.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans for patients with complex needs.
- Collaborated with staff, management, and external groups to coordinate patient care.
- Worked closely administration to develop and implement best practices to improve patient outcomes.
- Established and monitored infection control programs to provide safe, sanitary environment to prevent transmission of disease and infection.
- Facilitated continuing education and training programs to drive staff competency and professional development.
- Enhanced staff performance by conducting regular evaluations, providing constructive feedback, and offering tailored professional development opportunities.
- Identified department issues to recommend corrective actions.
- Promoted a culture of safety by enforcing compliance with infection control policies and procedures.
- Managed budgets effectively, identifying cost-saving measures while maintaining high-quality patient care standards.
- Planned and assigned workload to [Number]-person nursing staff to direct patient care.
- Led quality improvement projects aimed at enhancing clinical outcomes through data-driven analysis and targeted interventions.
- Developed strong relationships with community partners to facilitate continuity of care for patients transitioning between healthcare settings.
- Established new policies and updated existing policies to improve standard of care for patients.
- Mentored new nurses through orientation programs, facilitating their integration into the team and fostering their professional growth.
ADON
Highline Rehab Care Center
03.2014 - 01.2022
- Led daily operations of nursing staff to ensure high-quality patient care.
- Developed and implemented training programs for new nursing personnel, enhancing team competency.
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to optimize patient care plans and improve outcomes.
- Monitored compliance with regulatory standards, ensuring adherence to best practices in healthcare delivery.
- Conducted performance evaluations for nursing staff, providing feedback and fostering professional growth.
- Streamlined communication between departments, improving coordination and efficiency in patient management.
- Analyzed patient feedback to identify areas for improvement in service delivery and care experience.
- Initiated quality improvement projects that enhanced operational workflows within the nursing department.
- Established strong partnerships with community resources including hospice providers, home health agencies, and outpatient rehabilitation centers to enhance patient care transitions and discharge planning.
- Managed staffing needs effectively, ensuring appropriate nurse-to-patient ratios during all shifts.
- Reduced medication errors by conducting thorough medication administration audits and providing feedback to nursing staff.
- Mentored new nursing staff, fostering professional growth and development while maintaining high standards of patient care.
- Streamlined communication between nursing departments for efficient workflow and patient care coordination.
- Assisted in developing policies and procedures that were in compliance with state regulations, maintaining accreditation standards for the facility.
- Oversaw infection control efforts throughout the facility, contributing to reduced transmission rates among patients and staff members alike.
- Led quality improvement initiatives focused on reducing hospital-acquired infections, enhancing overall patient safety measures.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to develop individualized care plans for patients, ensuring optimal health outcomes.
- Facilitated open communication among team members, promoting a positive work environment conducive to collaboration and problemsolving.
Wound Care Nurse
Highline Rehab Care Center
01.2016 - 01.2021
- Assessed and documented patients' wound conditions, tailoring care plans to individual needs.
- Educated patients and families on effective wound care techniques and prevention strategies.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes and treatment plans.
- Developed and implemented evidence-based protocols for wound management, enhancing care quality.
- Conducted regular audits of wound care protocols, identifying opportunities for process improvement.
- Managed complex cases requiring specialized interventions, ensuring adherence to best practices.
- Evaluated patients'' wounds and recommended appropriate treatments, expediting the healing process.
- Treated and carefully tended to vascular and diabetic ulcers.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams for comprehensive treatment plans, resulting in improved patient outcomes.
- Collaborated with healthcare team to implement interventions for wound healing and skin breakdown prevention.
- Implemented plans to prevent pressure ulcers and other wound developments.
- Assessed and treated draining of wounds and burns.
- Provided post-surgery treatment and care for patients with ostomies.
- Conducted regular assessments of patients'' wounds to monitor progress and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of advancements in wound care research, incorporating new findings into practice for better results.
- Communicated effectively with patients from diverse backgrounds, fostering trust and understanding throughout their treatment journey.
- Reduced wound infection rates through strict adherence to aseptic protocols and proper wound dressing procedures.
MDS Coordinator
Highline Rehab Care Center
03.2015 - 01.2021
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge on CMS guidelines and changes to ensure accuracy in reporting and reimbursement processes.
- Collaborated with nursing staff to provide accurate and timely clinical assessments for each resident, leading to improved overall care.
- Assessed electronic medical record for required documentation to support MDS coding.
- Collaborated closely with therapy departments to accurately capture rehabilitation needs within MDS documentation, supporting appropriate resource allocation for residents'' needs.
- Verified prompt and accurate completion of MDS activities for billing.
- Enhanced patient care quality by implementing comprehensive MDS assessments and care plans.
- Provided ongoing education for nursing staff regarding MDS best practices, contributing to a knowledgeable and skilled workforce.
- Monitored changing regulations related to RAI/MDS requirements, keeping staff informed about updates that impact their daily work routines.
- Completed minimum data set assessments with strong collaboration across business, provider and clinical disciplines.
- Implemented interdisciplinary meetings focused on individualized care plan development, resulting in more targeted interventions and improved resident outcomes.
Nurse Manager
Highline Rehab Care Center
09.2010 - 03.2014
- Oversaw daily nursing operations to ensure optimal patient care and staff efficiency.
- Led team meetings to discuss patient care strategies and operational improvements.
- Developed and implemented training programs for new nursing staff to enhance skill sets.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to create individualized patient care plans.
- Monitored compliance with healthcare regulations and institutional policies for quality assurance.
- Analyzed workflow processes to identify areas for improvement in service delivery.
- Mentored junior nurses, fostering professional development and enhancing team performance.
- Managed budgeting and resource allocation to optimize departmental functionality and cost-effectiveness.
- Conducted performance evaluations and provided constructive feedback to support professional growth of nursing staff members.
- Trained new nurses in proper techniques, care standards, operational procedures, and safety protocols.
- Managed budgets and controlled costs, achieving financial targets without compromising patient care quality.
- Managed staff scheduling and time off to adequately staff nursing floors and allow nurses earned time off.
- Supervised, directed, and motivated high-quality performance from nursing staff.
- Fostered open communication among nurses through regular team meetings, promoting collaboration and shared decisionmaking.
- Developed and implemented quality improvement initiatives to provide best possible patient care and identify and address areas of concern.
- Ensured regulatory compliance by maintaining accurate records and staying up-to-date on industry standards.
- Served as a key point of contact between nursing staff, physicians, administration, and other healthcare professionals.
RN Floor Nurse
Highline Post Acute Care Center
09.2008 - 10.2010
- Administered medications and treatments per physician orders, ensuring patient safety and adherence to protocols.
- Monitored patient vital signs, identifying changes and communicating critical information to medical team promptly.
- Assisted in developing care plans tailored to individual patient needs, fostering a supportive environment for recovery.
- Educated patients and families on post-discharge care instructions, enhancing understanding of health management strategies.
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams to coordinate comprehensive care, improving overall patient outcomes during hospital stays.
- Maintained accurate electronic health records, documenting patient progress and facilitating effective communication among staff.
- Implemented infection control measures to promote a safe environment for patients, minimizing risk of hospital-acquired infections.
- Participated in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing nursing practices and increasing operational efficiency within unit.
- Collaborated with healthcare team members to assess, implement and evaluate nursing care plans.
- Strengthened relationships between patients, families, and healthcare providers through clear communication and active listening skills.
- Communicated effectively with patients and family members to convey important instructions and discuss treatments.
- Ensured accuracy in patient records by meticulously documenting assessments, interventions, and outcomes, ultimately contributing to better-informed decision making by healthcare providers.
- Delivered treatments and direct nursing care according to physicians' orders in [Type] environment.
- Examined and treated patients' injuries and pressure wounds to promote healing.
- Provided effective patient education, ensuring understanding of medical conditions and treatment protocols for better selfmanagement.
- Promoted a safe environment by consistently adhering to infection control policies and procedures.
Education
Nursing
University of Pheonix
Denver, CO07-2015
Associate of Science - Nursing
Lajunta Junior College
La Junta, CO04-2008
Skills
- HIPAA compliance
- Electronic health records proficiency
- Staff training and development
- Clinical documentation accuracy
Certification
- RAC-CT( Resident assessment coordinator)- Since 2020
- WCC( Wound care and ostomy) -since 2016
- MC&BC( Medical coding and Biller certified) -since 2023
- Infection preventionist-Since 2024
- Licensed RN -since 2008
Timeline
MDS Coordinator
Julia Temple Healthcare Center
10.2024 - Current
ADON
Life Care Center of Aurora
10.2023 - 07.2024
Infection Control Nurse
Life Care Centers of Aurora
10.2023 - 07.2024
Interim Director of Nursing
Highline Post Acute
12.2021 - 10.2023
Wound Care Nurse
Highline Rehab Care Center
01.2016 - 01.2021
MDS Coordinator
Highline Rehab Care Center
03.2015 - 01.2021
ADON
Highline Rehab Care Center
03.2014 - 01.2022
Nurse Manager
Highline Rehab Care Center
09.2010 - 03.2014
RN Floor Nurse
Highline Post Acute Care Center
09.2008 - 10.2010
Nursing
University of Pheonix
Associate of Science - Nursing
Lajunta Junior College
Similar Profiles
Jerlin AmistosoJerlin Amistoso
Doctor of Physical Therapy at Julia Temple Healthcare CenterDoctor of Physical Therapy at Julia Temple Healthcare Center
Brooke MatthewsBrooke Matthews
Direct Care Staff/Medication Specialist at Julia Paige Family CenterDirect Care Staff/Medication Specialist at Julia Paige Family Center
Alfredo Diaz JrAlfredo Diaz Jr
Custodian at Julia De Burgos Cultral Arts CenterCustodian at Julia De Burgos Cultral Arts Center
Trevor TausTrevor Taus
General Intern at Kane County Cougars BaseballGeneral Intern at Kane County Cougars Baseball
Amber KilgoreAmber Kilgore
Gymnastics Coach at Phenom GymnasticsGymnastics Coach at Phenom Gymnastics