Sarah Smith
Conway,AR
Summary
Accomplished and results-driven nursing leader with extensive experience in nursing management, clinical operations, and healthcare administration. Demonstrated expertise in leading cross-functional teams, optimizing patient care delivery, and implementing evidence-based practices to improve healthcare outcomes. Proven track record of driving organizational change, enhancing quality of care, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Skilled in budget management, staff development, and fostering a collaborative environment to ensure high performance and patient satisfaction.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Nursing
Independent Living Services
01.2023 - 12.2024
- Led a team of 100+ nursing and support staff in providing high-quality care for 200+ adults with intellectual disabilities, ensuring compliance with healthcare standards and regulations
- Developed and implemented nursing policies and procedures, achieving full regulatory compliance in audits
- Oversaw medication administration, ensuring accuracy and safety for a large consumer base, while managing medication records and compliance audits
- Spearheaded staff training programs focused on clinical competencies, patient safety, and continuous improvement
- Acted as a key member of the executive team, contributing to organizational strategy, patient care initiatives, and resource allocation decisions
- Managed the department budget, identifying cost-saving opportunities while maintaining high standards of care
- Provided on-call triage and case management services for critical situations, ensuring optimal patient outcomes
Registered Nurse | Charge Nurse
Conway Regional Medical Center
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Promoted to Charge Nurse, leading a team of registered nurses and support staff in a fast-paced hospital environment, overseeing daily operations, staffing, and patient care protocols
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure optimal care delivery, including coordinating pre- and post-surgery care, patient safety, and critical interventions
- Developed and delivered training programs on patient care protocols, ensuring compliance and fostering a culture of safety and quality
- Served as an on-call resource for crisis management and de-escalation, handling high-stakes situations calmly and effectively
- Streamlined patient care processes, improving patient flow and reducing wait times
Med-Surg | COVID Registered Nurse
Baptist Health Medical Center
01.2019 - 01.2021
- Played a key role in managing the COVID-19 response during the early stages of the pandemic, ensuring patient safety and compliance with evolving protocols
- Utilized advanced clinical skills to provide compassionate care to patients, including monitoring vitals, administering medications, and facilitating communication between patients, families, and healthcare teams
- Initiated and led a hospital-wide presentation on the importance of accurate bedside reporting and charting, improving patient safety and communication standards
Owner
Komorebi Boutique
01.2014 - 01.2019
- Managed daily operations, budgeting, inventory control, and strategic marketing for a successful boutique business, demonstrating strong financial acumen and operational efficiency
- Developed key partnerships with vendors, negotiated contracts, and implemented quality assurance measures to improve customer satisfaction
- Led marketing efforts through social media campaigns, print advertising, and networking events, increasing customer base and brand visibility
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
Special Education Paraprofessional
Woodlawn Elementary School
01.2014 - 01.2016
- Supported classroom teachers in providing educational services for students with special needs, demonstrating adaptability and strong communication skills
- Developed lesson plans and provided one-on-one support for students, ensuring adherence to IEP goals and individual learning needs
- Developed strong rapport with students by demonstrating empathy, patience, and understanding during daily interactions both inside and outside the classroom setting.
- Managed challenging behaviors using de-escalation techniques to maintain a safe and productive learning environment for all students involved.
Education
Doctorate of Nursing Practice - Mental Health
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN12.2026
Master of Business Administration -
West Texas A&M University
Canyon, TXBachelor of Science - Nursing
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, ARAssociate of Applied Science - Nursing
Jefferson School of Nursing
Pine Bluff, ARBachelor of Science - Psychology
University of Arkansas
Monticello, ARSkills
- Strategic Planning & Execution
- Clinical Operations Management
- Budgeting & Resource Allocation
- Policy Development & Implementation
- Quality Improvement & Patient Safety
- Regulatory Compliance (Joint Commission, State Regulations)
- Staff Development & Retention
- Crisis Management & De-escalation
- Cross-functional Team Leadership
- Performance Management & Mentoring
- Nurse education and training
- Leadership and guidance
- Quality improvement
- Strong work ethic
Certification
- Certified Registered Nurse (RN)
- BLS (Basic Life Support)
- ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support)
- PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support)
- CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
Awards Recognitions
Top 50 Women Leaders for Arkansas, 2023, Recognized for excellence in leadership, healthcare innovation, and contributions to nursing.
Timeline
Director of Nursing
Independent Living Services
01.2023 - 12.2024
Registered Nurse | Charge Nurse
Conway Regional Medical Center
01.2021 - 01.2023
Med-Surg | COVID Registered Nurse
Baptist Health Medical Center
01.2019 - 01.2021
Owner
Komorebi Boutique
01.2014 - 01.2019
Special Education Paraprofessional
Woodlawn Elementary School
01.2014 - 01.2016
Doctorate of Nursing Practice - Mental Health
Purdue University
Master of Business Administration -
West Texas A&M University
Bachelor of Science - Nursing
University of Arkansas
Associate of Applied Science - Nursing
Jefferson School of Nursing
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
University of Arkansas
Similar Profiles
Justin PrewittJustin Prewitt
Home Health Aide Assistant at Independent Living ServicesHome Health Aide Assistant at Independent Living Services
Cynthia AllenCynthia Allen
Caregiver/Waiver Service Provider at Independent Living ServicesCaregiver/Waiver Service Provider at Independent Living Services
Morgan LeidholmMorgan Leidholm
Support Manager at Independent Living ServicesSupport Manager at Independent Living Services