Sara Nicholson
Centennial
Summary
Dynamic nurse leader with extensive experience in oncology and BMT, notably at Stanford Healthcare. Pioneered the post CAR T Nurse Coordinator role, enhancing care standards and patient education. Known for exceptional clinical expertise and effective communication, adept at quality improvement and patient advocacy. Co-authored an abstract for ASTCT 2025, showcasing commitment to advancing nursing practice.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Post Commercial CAR T Nurse Coordinator
Colorado Blood Cancer Institute
06.2023 - Current
- Brand new role developed in June 2023. Collaborated with providers and BMT/Hematology/IECT Coordinators to determine the needs, expectations and responsibilities for this role. Created a role description based on these findings.
- Worked closely with disease group physicians to develop a standard of care for each IECT commercial product regarding infectious prophylaxis, post infusion follow up, CRS/ICANS management, future testing and follow up care.
- Collected data for all Commercial CAR T patients including hospitalization dates, CRS/ICANS onset, duration, treatment, and response.
- Developed standardized patient education
- Developed standardized education and recommendations to provide to referring physicians
- Developed a standardized handoff procedure after 100 days to hematology coordinators to ensure smooth transition of care
- Participated actively in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing overall organizational performance, streamlining data collection practices, aligned data tracking and standard of care policies to meet FACT requirements.
- 3rd author on abstract to be presented at ASTCT 2025 Tandem meetings
Oncology Infusion Registered Nurse
Stanford Health Care, Infusion Center
09.2022 - 06.2023
- Educated patients and families about cancer treatments, side effects, and self-care strategies, empowering them to make informed decisions.
- Managed complex medication regimens while monitoring for potential drug interactions or adverse reactions, mitigating risks associated with cancer treatments.
- Enhanced patient safety with strict adherence to chemotherapy administration protocols and monitoring guidelines.
- Provided individualized patient education on chemotherapy medications, infusion procedures, and side-effect management strategies to promote self-advocacy and coping skills.
Assistant Patient Care Manager - Inpatient BMT
Stanford Healthcare
04.2020 - 09.2022
- Evaluated staff performance regularly, providing constructive feedback and support for professional development opportunities.
- Resolved conflicts among staff members by employing effective communication techniques and seeking mutually beneficial solutions when issues arose.
- Performed real-time chart audits for patients ensuring accuracy and completeness of information while capitalizing on opportunities for process improvement.
- Managed scheduling to ensure optimal coverage while maintaining a healthy work-life balance for staff members.
- Developed departmental goals and objectives to improve satisfactory rating with patients.
- Participated in hospital-wide initiatives aimed at improving overall patient experience and satisfaction levels.
Registered Nurse, Blood and Marrow Transplant
Stanford Healthcare
10.2013 - 04.2020
- Roles included Travel Nurse, Bedside Nurse, Charge Nurse and Preceptor
- Contributed to facility accreditation efforts by maintaining high standards of documentation, policy adherence, and regulatory compliance in the BMT unit.
- Enhanced patient recovery by providing comprehensive care and support throughout the bone marrow transplant process.
- Improved patient satisfaction scores through empathetic communication and consistent follow-up on concerns and needs.
- Prepared patients for transplant by administering chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or other conditioning regimens as prescribed.
- Served as a mentor to new nurses entering the BMT specialty field, sharing knowledge and fostering growth within the team.
Oncology Nurse
Florida Hospital Altamonte Springs
07.2007 - 09.2013
- Roles included bedside nurse, charge nurse, preceptor, and relief house supervisor for day and night shift
- Administered chemotherapy and other cancer treatments, ensuring accurate dosing and proper patient education.
- Mentored new oncology nurses, sharing knowledge gained from years of experience in specialized cancer care settings.
- Established rapport with diverse patient populations by demonstrating empathy and understanding during difficult periods of illness or treatment.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Union College
Lincoln, NE05-2007
Skills
- Clinical leadership
- Nursing management
- Care coordination
- Creative problem solving
- Quality improvement
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Treatment coordination
- Effective communication
- Multitasking and organization
- Patient education and advocacy
- Strong clinical judgment
- Clinical expertise
Certification
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Certified Nurse (BMTCN)
- Basic Life Support Certification (BLS)
Timeline
Post Commercial CAR T Nurse Coordinator
Colorado Blood Cancer Institute
06.2023 - Current
Oncology Infusion Registered Nurse
Stanford Health Care, Infusion Center
09.2022 - 06.2023
Assistant Patient Care Manager - Inpatient BMT
Stanford Healthcare
04.2020 - 09.2022
Registered Nurse, Blood and Marrow Transplant
Stanford Healthcare
10.2013 - 04.2020
Oncology Nurse
Florida Hospital Altamonte Springs
07.2007 - 09.2013
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
Union College
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