Kaitlin Lastinger

Provided immediate postoperative care to patients recovering from anesthesia in a busy PACU. Assessed and monitored vital signs, oxygen saturation, and level of consciousness to identify early complications. Administered medications including analgesics, sedatives, and antiemetics as prescribed.

Provided comprehensive preoperative assessments for patients, including medical history review, physical exams, and lab result interpretation to identify any concerns before surgery. Educated patients on the surgical process, anesthesia risks, and postoperative care expectations. Monitored patients in the PACU after surgery, assessing vital signs, consciousness, and pain levels while administering

Managed airway (OPA, head tilt, chin lift, suction) and monitored patient for appropriate ventilation immediately post-op. Medicated patient for initial post-operative pain while managing and monitoring drains and operative sites. Assisted pulmonologist with bedside bronchoscopy, ensuring consents signed and sedation medication given intra procedure.

Provided specialized care of COVID ECMO patients and assisted providers with bedside procedures including bronchoscopy, thoracentesis, chest tube placement, tracheostomy, and PEG placement. Demonstrated proper administration and knowledge of transplant medications. Provided effective interpretation and maintenance of PA catheter.

Floated to SICU, CICU, PCU, and medical surgical units, administering blood products and titrating drips based on protocols and parameters in the MAR. Assisted Providers with bedside procedures such as bronchoscopy, PA catheter, and Central Line placement. Performed discharge education for patients going home or to appropriate facility.

Received open heart and peripheral vascular patients directly from OR, appropriately titrating drips based on hemodynamics and changing patient condition. Demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the use of invasive hemodynamic monitoring devices. Experienced in ABG and EKG interpretation to determine plan of care.

Balanced a 1:8 nurse patient ratio providing care for COVID population with emphasis on maintaining respiratory function and mitigating spread of infection. Responded to patient declining condition and initiated code when necessary. Administered medications and performed dressing changes in a timely manner.

Delivered thorough patient care with a 1:5 nurse patient ratio, maintaining quality care while completing tasks of a charge nurse role. Proficient in central line care and extensive wound dressing changes. Managed and trouble-shot wound vacs, wound managers, and ostomies.

Grade: GPA 3.7, Academic Dean’s List 2015-2018

Completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, gaining comprehensive knowledge in patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention. Focused on evidence-based practice and ethical nursing principles. Achieved a GPA of 3.7 and was recognized on the Academic Dean’s List from 2015-2018.

Grade: GPA 3.8, Graduated with High Honors

Earned an Associate Degree in Math & Science, building a strong foundation in scientific and mathematical principles. Graduated with High Honors, demonstrating academic excellence. Maintained a GPA of 3.8 throughout the program.