SARA MERLO

Reisterstown, MD | Smerlo296@gmail.com | 443-834-8938

EDUCATION
Carroll Community College Westminster, MD
Major: Nursing (R.N.) Graduating May 2021
Associate of Arts: Early Childhood Education/Special Education 2017
 Dean’s List; GPA 3.96

University of Maryland School of Nursing Baltimore, MD

Major: Nursing (R.N. to BSN) Graduating December
2021
PRACTICUM
Johns Hopkins Hospital Baltimore, MD
Progressive Cardiac Care Unit February-March 2021
 Conducted thorough assessments on patients with multiple comorbidities including end-stage heart failure, end-
stage renal disease, cardiomyopathy, and cardiovascular disease
 Provided care to a patient with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) by observing the flow volume and speed of
the device on the monitor
 Provided wound care and education to a patient who had an infection at the site of their pacemaker following
surgical removal of the pacemaker
 Observed trends in patients’ lab values to distinguish baseline values from abnormal values
 Analyzed EKG strips to determine the patient’s heart rhythm noting signs of ectopic beats
 Provided education to patients regarding critical heart medications including why the medication was needed,
frequency of taking it, potential side effects, and when to call the physician

CLINICAL SKILLS
 Assess patient needs, provide basic hygiene care, and aid with daily activities in multiple settings including
pediatrics and acute care
 Maintain safety of the patient and communicate therapeutically to show care and comfort
 Prioritize patient care based on medical diagnosis, taking vitals, and performing a head-to-toe assessment
 Initiate nursing interventions to provide patients with quality care who have an array of diseases
 Collaborate with and assist registered nurses in direct patient care
 Determine the action, side effects, and nursing implications of medications prior to administration following the 6
rights of medication administration

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Carroll Hospital Center Westminster, MD
Nurse Intern January 2021-Current
 Obtain report on patient assignment and provide a detailed SBAR report at change of shift
 Review patients’ lab values noting any abnormalities
 Communicate with physicians about abnormal lab values, plan of care, or change in patient’s condition
 Document nursing assessments accurately and timely on four patients to reflect the state of their conditions

CERTIFCATIONS
Certified Nursing Assistant | Maryland Board of Nursing 2020-2022
CPR Certification | American Heart Association 2019-2021

PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES
Provisional Alpha Delta Nu member 2021
National Student Nursing Association 2019-2020
Academic Biology Tutor 2019-2020