Klade Rodriguez

About Klade Rodriguez

I am the 2026 Vizient/AACN National Nurse Resident of the Year, a DAISY Award-winning Multidisciplinary Float Pool RN, and a visionary bedside leader. My philosophy is driven by a singular conviction: while clinical algorithms and advanced medicine can stabilize a failing body, empathy without evidence is just observation. True healthcare innovation is forged the exact moment we translate a patient’s silent vulnerability into the standard of care.Armed with a Master’s in Healthcare Administration (MHA) and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), I bridge the gap between strategic, data-driven healthcare management and compassionate bedside care. Currently excelling at an ANCC Magnet-Designated Level II Major Trauma & Joint Commission Primary Stroke Center. I thrive in complex, high-acuity environments that demand rapid critical thinking, psychological agility, and elite clinical adaptability. NAVIGATING THE UNCHARTED: CLINICAL VERSATILITYOperating without a \"home unit,\" my specialty is adaptability. I provide vital continuity across a complex float matrix: Critical Care (MICU, SICU), PCU, Telemetry, ED Boarding, Med-Surg, and IPR. Managing high-acuity assignments (1:1 to 1:6), my autonomy encompasses continuous EKG interpretation, titrating vasoactive drips, and airway management. Utilizing Epic EMR and CPI de-escalation, I strive to anchor a terrified mind just as expertly as I stabilize a failing body. VISIONARY LEADERSHIP & EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE (EBP)I am passionate about turning empathy into evidence-based action. Witnessing the distress of non-verbal patients inspired me to co-found the \"Silent No More\" communication initiative. As a TNA EBP Fellow, Unit Excellence Co-Chair, Clinical Preceptor, and CLABSI Champion, I leverage Shared Governance to elevate quality improvement (QI) and patient safety. SYSTEMS THINKING & CARE COORDINATIONEnriched by a decade-long foundation in care coordination (CCM/RPM) and sports medicine, my multidisciplinary perspective allows me to view patient care through a macro lens. I champion holistic mobility, optimize safe discharges, and educate diverse populations to reduce readmissions in alignment with value-based care. CORE COMPETENCIES• Clinical: High-Acuity Ratios, EKGs, Titratable Drips, Hemodynamics, Wound Care, CPI De-escalation• Leadership: Vizient/AACN Awardee, MHA, MSN, Shared Governance, EBP, QI• Tech/Strategy: Epic EMR Super User, Telehealth, CCM, RPM, Digital Health, Change Management• Certs: RN (Texas/Compact & CA), BLS, ACLS, NIHSS, PALS, NRP, CPI

Experience

1. Registered Nurse, Multi-disciplinary Float Pool

   Baylor Scott & White Health

   Jan 2024 — Present · Waco, TX, US

   Clinical Versatility and Excellence: Provide nursing care in multiple specialized units, including Oncology, Renal, Cardiac, Post-Operative, Neuro, Pediatrics, Orthopedic, Rehabilitation, and Progressive Care Units. My diverse background enables me to quickly adapt to different clinical environments, ensuring continuity and excellence in patient care.• Patient Care Advocacy and Improvement: As a part of the Unit Excellence Council (UEC), I advocate for clinical excellence within the float pool unit. My role involves enhancing clinical methodologies, skills development, and optimal resource allocation, contributing to superior patient care standards and outcomes.• Healthcare Improvement Initiatives: Engage in robust initiatives aimed at amplifying patient experiences and outcomes. My efforts are focused on making every healthcare touchpoint resonate with a positive impact, drawing from my extensive experience in healthcare improvement drives.• Safety and Compliance: Ensure strict adherence to hospital policies and procedures, infection control standards, and safety guidelines. Maintain a safe work and care environment, emphasizing patient and personal safety.• Education and Competency Maintenance: Regularly participate in educational programs, staying abreast of the latest nursing practices and innovations. My commitment to continuous learning and skill enhancement ensures that I remain competent and effective in my role as a float pool nurse.

Education

• Texas A&M University

  Bachelor of Science - B.S., Applied Exercise Physiology

  2015 — 2018

• The University of Texas at Arlington

  Bachelor of Science, Nursing

  2021 — 2023

• Liberty University

  Masters of Healthcare Administration - MHA-SM, Healthcare Administration: Strategic Management - Project Cognate

  2020 — 2021

• McLennan Community College

  Associate of Arts - A.A., General Studies

  2013 — 2014

• McLennan Community College

  Associate of Science - A.S., Biology/Biological Sciences, General

  2014 — 2015

• Liberty University

  Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) – Healthcare Management, Business Administration, Management and Operations

  2023 — 2026

• Southern New Hampshire University

  Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) - Nurse Executive Leadership

  2024 — 2025