Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Julia Bitz

Rapid City

Summary

Dedicated RN with over 29 years of experience, including areas of behavioral health, LTC, post-acute care and inpatient rehab. I am skilled in developing comprehensive care plans and advocating for patients. Known for strong assessment skills and a compassionate approach, I excel in complex problem-solving and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

RN

West River Mental Health
12.2023 - 06.2025

-Worked as a Nurse for the IMPACT Program at BMS, Pivot Point Crisis Unit, and at the Full Circle Rehab Program.

  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
  • Educated Clients and families on mental health conditions and coping strategies for improved recovery.
  • Conducted thorough Admission assessments of Client's medical and mental health history, documenting findings accurately in electronic records.
  • Administered medication and monitored Client responses to ensure optimal care.
  • Facilitated Client group education sessions, fostering an environment of support and engagement.
  • Trained new staff on medication administration policies, procedures, and best practices in mental health care delivery-completed Certified Medication Aide tests
  • Administered psycho-active long acting intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
  • Supervised SDSU students during their rotation at Pivot Point and BMS.
  • Reordered Client medications, checked medications in from Pharmacy, reconciled medications to physician orders, contacted Pharmacist with any discrepancies, and updated MAR.
  • Managed appointments for Client: set appointment, made appointment form, and made follow up appointment-eHR documentation as needed.
  • Ran monthly lab day, collaborating with MH lab techs, monthly-including completing the Client lab reqs prior.

RN Case Manager-MDS Coordinator

Avantara Arrowhead
11.2021 - 09.2023
  • Coordinated resident care plans with interdisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive support and resource allocation.
  • Conducted assessments-including PHQ9 and BIMS- to evaluate resident needs, adapting strategies for individualized care improvement.
  • Monitored treatment progress, documenting changes in health status and adjusting care plans as necessary.
  • Responsible for setting accurate ARDs for all admission types in order to capture highest reimbursement rate. Completed accurate assessment of all residents following RAI process, and completing/updating their Care Plans.
  • Implemented evidence-based practices to improve patient outcomes and streamline case management processes-including attending Medicare meetings, Care Conferences, and communicating with Therapy Staff.
  • Assisted in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing service delivery within the case management framework-attended and participated in monthly QAPI meeting.
  • Utilized electronic health record systems for accurate documentation and data tracking of patient information.
  • Responsible for the Restorative Therapy Program, including setting up Therapy written programs into TASKS and resident care plans, as well as completing monthly evaluations of their progress.
  • Coordinated care conferences with interdisciplinary team members, ensuring all perspectives were considered in the development of comprehensive treatment plans-including outside community resources when needed (i.e. Hospice provider).
  • Advocated for resident's '' rights" and preferences, working diligently to align care with individual values and goals-personal strength of being a "strong patient advocate".
  • Streamlined discharge planning processes, when Social Worker not available or needing assistance, ensuring a smoother transition for residents back to their homes or other facilities.
  • Knowledgeable in QM (Quality Measures), RUG scores and 5 Star process.

RN-MDS Coordinator/Unit Manager

Good Samaritan Society St. Martin's Village
06.2021 - 11.2021
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement individualized treatment plans-participated in weekly Care Conferences.
  • Conducted comprehensive assessments to evaluate resident status including PHQ9 and BIMS.
  • Educated staff on any changes made by DON related to resident care or to changes in care plans.
  • Responsible for setting ARDs in compliance with RAI process in order to capture the highest reimbursement rate.
  • Completed the MDS process to initiate and update resident care plan.
  • Worked with IDT in Care Conferences, Medicare Meetings and QAPI.
  • Role included being a support to DON, as acting as Unit Manager for unit of 30 residents and approximately 10 staff.
  • Assisted in decision making for well=being of residents and directions staff should make to improve quality of care given.
  • Completed follow-up on fall reports and any other assigned reports per DON.

RN-Infection Control Nurse

Avantara Arrowhead
09.2020 - 06.2021
  • Assisted facility in following infection control guidelines per facility and state polices (Implemented during COVID pandemic).
  • Provided staff education on COVID and proper use of PPE.
  • Provided care and medication to COVID+ residents in isolation.
  • Updated care plans of COVID+ residents.
  • Educated residents and families on COVID, isolation protocol, and PPE, promoting understanding of treatment regimens.
  • Assisted with monitoring staff temperatures upon entering facility along with sign in forms and entered data into Federal data base.
  • Completed COVID testing on residents and staff per guidelines.
  • Monitored residents for signs and symptoms of other infections and maintained tracking system of other facility infections and any ordered treatments.
  • Audited facility for compliance to State guidelines in infection control and reported findings to Administration.

MDS Coordinator-RN

Avantara Saint Cloud
03.2017 - 09.2020
  • Coordinated MDS assessments to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and improve resident care quality.
  • Developed individualized care plans by collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, enhancing overall resident satisfaction.
  • Implemented efficient documentation processes within electronic health record systems to streamline workflows and accuracy.
  • Trained and supported nursing staff in MDS procedures, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing-provided education at monthly staff meetings.
  • Analyzed data from MDS submissions to identify trends and inform strategic decisions for facility operations-knowledgeable in Quality Measures and 5 Star reports.
  • Attended and participated in weekly Behavior meeting, Medicare meeting and monthly QAPI meeting.
  • Facilitated communication between healthcare providers, families, and residents to address concerns effectively and timely.
  • 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.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge on CMS guidelines and changes to ensure accuracy in reporting and reimbursement processes.
  • 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 and submitted assessments via electronic system.
  • Completed all necessary Medicare forms.

Home Health Nurse, Case Manager

Good Samaritan Society of the Black Hills
02.2016 - 03.2017
  • Developed comprehensive care plans tailored to individual patient needs and goals.
  • Coordinated interdisciplinary team meetings to enhance communication and ensure holistic patient care.
  • Conducted thorough assessments of patient health status, identifying potential risks and solutions, during weekly visits.
  • Improved patient outcomes through regular monitoring of vital signs and medication adherence.
  • Managed complex wound care regimens for optimal healing outcomes-including Wound VACS
  • Collaborated with vendors to procure medical equipment, supplies and services.
  • Administered medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians.
  • Educated patients and families on disease management, medication adherence, and preventive health practices.
  • Completed the Start of Care (SOC) on new patients, including the Oasis assessment.
  • Acted as a liaison between patients, families, and healthcare professionals to facilitate communication regarding treatment options and plans.

MDS Coordinator-RN

Golden Living Center Prairie Hills
09.2015 - 02.2016
  • Coordinated MDS assessments to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and improve resident care quality.
  • Trained and supported nursing staff in MDS procedures, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.
  • Analyzed data from MDS submissions to identify trends and inform strategic decisions for facility operations.
  • Collaborated closely with therapy departments to accurately capture rehabilitation needs within MDS documentation, supporting appropriate resource allocation for resident's needs.
  • Enhanced patient care quality by implementing comprehensive MDS assessments and care plans.
  • Assessed electronic medical record for required documentation to support MDS coding.
  • Verified prompt and accurate completion of MDS activities for billing.
  • Developed a comprehensive system for tracking MDS completion deadlines, ensuring timely submissions and minimizing the risk of financial penalties.
  • Coordinated multidisciplinary care team meetings to enhance communication and ensure consistency in patient care delivery-Weekly Medicare meeting and Care Conferences.
  • Conducted comprehensive patient assessments to develop individualized care plans-including PHQ9 and BIMS.
  • Familiar with CMS, CMS forms, Casper reports, Quality Measures and 5 Star report.

RN, PACU

Black Hills Surgical Hospital
03.2015 - 09.2015
  • Monitored patient recovery progress, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and best practices.
  • Administered post-anesthesia care, managing pain levels and monitoring vital signs effectively.
  • Collaborated with surgical teams to develop individualized recovery plans for optimal patient outcomes.
  • Educated patients and families on postoperative care, enhancing understanding of recovery processes.
  • Enhanced patient recovery by consistently monitoring and assessing post-operative vital signs.
  • Provided comprehensive pre-discharge assessments, verifying that patients met criteria for discharge while addressing any remaining concerns or needs prior to leaving the facility.
  • Demonstrated strong clinical assessment skills for early identification of potential complications or adverse reactions following surgery.
  • Streamlined handoff procedures by efficiently communicating pertinent information to the next shift''s staff.
  • Maintained accurate documentation of patient medical records, ensuring compliance with hospital policies and regulatory standards.
  • Promoted a comfortable environment for patients, addressing concerns, and providing emotional support during post-operative recovery.
  • Educated patients and families on post-operative care instructions, fostering better understanding and adherence to prescribed treatments or therapies.
  • Reduced complications through timely administration of medications and pain management strategies.
  • Served as an advocate for patients and their families throughout the perioperative process, fostering trust and open communication between all parties involved in care delivery.
  • Assisted physicians in conducting bedside procedures, such as wound dressing changes or IV insertions, to foster optimal healing processes.
  • Facilitated smooth transfer of patients from ORs to PACUs, coordinating closely with surgical teams and ensuring seamless continuity of care.
  • Evaluated patients' pain levels, implementing correct dosage of medication to alleviate discomfort.
  • Evaluated cardio-respiratory systems for deviations, providing appropriate treatment as necessary.
  • Documented treatments delivered, medications and IVs administered, discharge instructions, and follow-up care.
  • Provided wound care and managed wound drains (JP, Constavac, and Hemovac).

RN

Regional Health Rehabilitation Institute
08.2008 - 02.2015

-Initially worked as daytime Floor Nurse, then transferred to Night Charge Nurse. For the last 2 years of employment had been advanced to role of Pre-Admissions Coordinator.

  • Enhanced patient satisfaction through effective communication, empathy, and timely response to their needs.
  • Administered medications via oral, IV, and intramuscular injections and monitored responses.
  • Collaborated with physicians to quickly assess patients and deliver appropriate treatment while managing rapidly changing conditions.
  • Developed strong relationships with patients'' families, providing emotional support while addressing concerns or questions about care plans.
  • Mentored new nursing staff, contributing to a supportive work environment and improved retention rates.
  • Assessed patient conditions promptly upon admission to determine appropriate interventions and prioritize care needs.
  • Utilized advanced clinical skills such as wound care management or IV therapy administration, leading to faster recovery times for patients treated under my supervision.
  • Evaluated patient histories, complaints, and current symptoms.
  • Followed all personal and health data procedures to effectively comply with HIPAA laws and prevent information breaches.
  • Used first-hand knowledge and clinical expertise to advocate for patients under care and enacted prescribed treatment strategies.
  • Managed patients recovering from medical or surgical procedures-including new CVAs, joint replacements and Spinal surgeries.
  • Offered exceptional care and support to individuals recovering from acute incidents and dealing with chronic conditions-including new TBIs and MS.
  • Explained course of care and medication side effects to patients and caregivers in easy-to-understand terms.
  • Conducted ongoing monitoring and evaluations of behaviors and conditions, and updated clinical supervisors with current information.
  • Monitored patient pain levels and treated per orders.
  • Collaborated with physician, lab, pharmacist, therapists, and family as warranted.
  • Completed all patient documentation accurately and timely pertaining to physical assessment, safety assessment, VS, and any other detailed work pertaining to patient that shift.
  • In the role as Pre-Admissions Coordinator duties included: screening potential new admits for appropriateness for inpatient rehab, communicating this screening to physicians, and completing admission assessments if admission did occur. Contact with Insurance company/Medicare was made for admission coverage if warranted.

Education

Associate of Science - Nursing

Colby Community College
Colby, KS
05-1996

Skills

  • Licensed RN 29 years
  • Culturally sensitive
  • Compassion and empathy
  • Strong patient advocate
  • High level of autonomy
  • Able to multi-task/well-organized
  • Thorough assessment skills
  • Complex Problem-solving
  • Proficient in writing Care Plans
  • Previous work history as DON
  • Previous work history at PCJ/Detox
  • Previous work history with Alzheimers/Dementia

Certification

  • CPI Training - 5/24/25-5/24/26
  • BLS (First Aid CPR AED) Training - 3/12/24-03/2026
  • Licensed RN - 2/14/25-2/14/27

Timeline

RN

West River Mental Health
12.2023 - 06.2025

RN Case Manager-MDS Coordinator

Avantara Arrowhead
11.2021 - 09.2023

RN-MDS Coordinator/Unit Manager

Good Samaritan Society St. Martin's Village
06.2021 - 11.2021

RN-Infection Control Nurse

Avantara Arrowhead
09.2020 - 06.2021

MDS Coordinator-RN

Avantara Saint Cloud
03.2017 - 09.2020

Home Health Nurse, Case Manager

Good Samaritan Society of the Black Hills
02.2016 - 03.2017

MDS Coordinator-RN

Golden Living Center Prairie Hills
09.2015 - 02.2016

RN, PACU

Black Hills Surgical Hospital
03.2015 - 09.2015

RN

Regional Health Rehabilitation Institute
08.2008 - 02.2015

Associate of Science - Nursing

Colby Community College
Julia Bitz