Cera Layfield

I began my career in healthcare at 17 years old, providing private in-home care for a family friend three nights a week. Shortly after turning 18, I transitioned to a nursing home and rehabilitation facility before moving into the hospital setting. I then worked as a Patient Care Technician (PCT) at Bellefonte Behavioral Health while completing nursing school.

After earning my RN, I joined St. Mary's Medical Center, where I worked for seven years as a Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse. I currently work for Fresenius Kidney Care, where I have served in both direct patient care and management roles as a Registered Nurse.

Throughout my career, healthcare has been my sole professional focus, allowing me to develop a strong clinical foundation and a passion for providing compassionate, evidence-based patient care. I am currently completing my Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) program and anticipate graduating in August 2026. I plan to sit for the AANP certification examination in mid-September 2026 and look forward to transitioning into an advanced practice role, where I can continue serving patients and communities with high-quality, comprehensive care.

Dialysis Nurse - Fresenius Medical Care - Huntington, WV

(2024-04)

• Provided direct patient care to individuals undergoing dialysis treatment, ensuring their comfort and safety throughout the process
• Administered medications and monitored vital signs during dialysis sessions, promptly addressing any changes or concerns
• Performed hemodialysis procedures according to established protocols and physician orders, adhering to strict infection control practices
• Assessed patients' physical condition before, during, and after dialysis treatments, documenting observations accurately in medical records
• Collaborated with interdisciplinary healthcare team members to develop comprehensive care plans for patients receiving dialysis therapy
• Educated patients and their families on kidney disease management techniques, including dietary restrictions and medication adherence
• Responded quickly to emergency situations during dialysis sessions, implementing appropriate interventions as needed
• Maintained a clean and organized work environment in the dialysis unit, ensuring all equipment was properly sterilized and functioning correctly
• Monitored fluid balance closely in patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment, adjusting fluid removal rates as necessary to prevent complications such as hypotension or dehydration
• Assisted with vascular access procedures for hemodialysis treatment, including cannulation of arteriovenous fistulas or grafts under sterile conditions
• Collaborated with nephrologists and other healthcare professionals to evaluate lab results related to renal function tests and adjust treatment plans accordingly
• Managed multiple patient assignments simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and providing individualized care based on each patient's needs
• Implemented infection prevention strategies within the dialysis unit by following proper hand hygiene protocols and regularly disinfecting equipment surfaces
• Collaborated with social workers and case managers to coordinate post-dialysis care for patients, including arranging transportation services and scheduling follow-up appointments with healthcare providers
• Participated in quality improvement initiatives within the dialysis unit, contributing ideas for process enhancements that improved efficiency and patient outcomes
• Developed educational materials for patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis at home, including step-by-step instructions for catheter care, fluid exchange techniques, and troubleshooting common issues

Registered Nurse - St. Mary's Medical Center

(2018-10 - 2026-03)

As my first position as a Registered Nurse, I worked on a Medical-Surgical/Urology unit, serving as the night shift charge nurse three nights per week. In this role, I was responsible for coordinating patient care, supporting the nursing staff, and ensuring the delivery of safe, high-quality care throughout the shift. I believe every patient deserves to be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect, and I strive to provide individualized, patient-centered care in every interaction.

As a charge nurse, I also took pride in fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment. I made it a priority to be approachable and available to my fellow nurses, creating a safe space where they felt comfortable asking questions, seeking guidance, and voicing concerns. I am committed to leading by example, promoting teamwork, and helping others grow professionally while maintaining the highest standards of patient care.

PCT (Patient Care Technician) - Bellefonte Behavioral Health

(2016-03 - 2018-09)

Working in Behavioral Health I learned and acquired the ability to be empathetic to all of my patients. I was responsible for the ADLs of the patients but I was also responsible for educating, listening, and helping my patients cope with the stress of life and their disease. I have learned to care for detoxing, psychotic, and dementia patients in ways that most nurses will never learn.

I've learned so many different ways to approach different patients in different situations that will truly help me throughout my entire nursing career.

CNA - Certified Nursing Assistant - Woodlands Retirement Community - Huntington, WV

(2015-02 - 2016-03)

There I was responsible for making sure the patients completed their daily ADLs. I was involved in feeding, bathing, dressing, as well as many other daily tasks. A big part of my job was care for patients with Alzheimer Disease. This job was truly the beginning of my career and taught me the ins and outs of the life of a health care personnel. While I was there, I transitioned from a Nursing Assistance (NA) to a Certified Nursing Assistance (CNA).

Masters - Family Nurse Practitioner - Maryville University of Saint Louis (2024-08)

BSN - Nursing - Ohio University-Southern Campus (2019-01 - 2022-04)

Associates - Nursing - Ohio University Southern (2016-08 - 2018-08)