Isabel Ortiz, BSN, RN, CCRN
Isabel Ortiz, BSN, RN, CCRN, is a registered nurse with four years of experience in critical care, specializing in cardiothoracic intensive care. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of South Carolina, Columbia, and began her career in neurocardiac ICU step-down units, where she gained foundational experience managing complex patients with neurological and cardiac conditions.
Isabel advanced to the operating room, where she specialized in trauma and emergency general surgery, including liver transplant procedures. She later transitioned to the cardiothoracic ICU at a level 1 trauma teaching center, managing high-acuity post-operative patients following open-heart surgery, emergent ECMO cannulations, destination LVADs, and valve replacements such as MVRs, AVRs, and CABG procedures. Her clinical expertise is complemented by CCRN certification and CSU ALS credentials, qualifying her to perform emergent bedside interventions. She is currently pursuing CSC and CMC certifications to further enhance her professional qualifications.
In recognition of her exceptional patient care, Isabel received the prestigious Daisy Award in July 2023, honoring her compassionate approach, thorough patient education, and ability to provide reassurance to patients and families. Her commitment to excellence and patient advocacy extends beyond the bedside; she serves on her unit-based council and is an active member of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN).
Isabel recently expanded her impact by joining a medical device company as a clinical specialist, focusing on neuromonitoring under anesthesia and minimally invasive hemodynamic monitoring using LIDCO technology across the Southeast region. As a first-generation American, she has overcome early challenges with confidence and perseverance, establishing herself as a passionate advocate for innovation, professional growth, and inspiring others to recognize their own potential.
• University of South Carolina - B.S.N.
• CCRN
• CSU ALS
• CSC (in progress)
• CMC (in progress)
• Daisy Award (July 2023)
• AACN
• Unit-Based Council
Areas of Specialization/Expertise
- Critical Care
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Post-Op Recovery
- ECMO Cannulations
- LVAD
- Valve Replacements
- Trauma
- Emergency General Surgery
- Liver Transplants
- Neuromonitoring
- Hemodynamic Monitoring
What do you enjoy most about practicing medicine?
I strive to make every patient feel comfortable, supported, and cared for—almost like they’re spending time with a friend. Whether it’s a minor procedure or routine care, I take time to reassure patients, review their results, and simply be present with them when they’re nervous. I believe that even the smaller cases deserve the same attention and compassion as the complex ones. I enjoy bringing my personality into my practice and teaching patients so they feel more informed and confident during what can be a stressful or scary time.